Calendula and raspberry flowers, rosemary and thyme, peppermint and cornflower: these are just some of the aromatic herbs and flowers that characterize South Tyrol. Farmers, gardeners, and biologists have been passing down the secrets of an ancient craft for years, based on knowledge of the territory – varying in altitude and conditions – and on the strict criteria of extensive cultivation. Months of care and respect for nature to reach the harvest – mostly by hand – of the most precious flowers and herbs. And this is why in South Tyrol the cultivation and harvesting of aromatic herbs and flowers becomes a true experience, to be lived with full lungs breathing in the intense aromas and admiring the brilliance of the colors.
Discovering the Wipptal Aromatic Gardens: immersing oneself among the aromatic herbs of Sterzing and Racines.
From June to September, enchanting stretches of herbs and flowers bloom and welcome the curious, seekers of unforgettable experiences, and families with children. Behind the Wipptal Aromatic Gardens are Gabi and Sepp Holzer of the Steirerhof farm, in Prati di Vizze, and Bernhard Auckenthaler of the Botenhof farm in Fleres. Respectively biologist, farmer, gardener, the three individuals combine their experience to showcase more than 60 types of aromatic herbs and invite visitors to join guided tours on the farm between July and August, tasting local liquors and bitters produced on site and also available for purchase at the Sterzing market.
A stay in the unspoiled nature of Oberpalwitter: the farm of a thousand colors
In South Tyrol, you have to slow down to discover every little detail and truly enjoy its essence. The farm Oberpalwitter, located on the sunny slopes of Barbiano, offers an unforgettable stay with panoramic views of the Dolomites and the opportunity to taste organic vegetables and herbs, all produced on the farm.
Preserving spring to enjoy it all year round: Jakob Haller’s secret
Every herb has its story, every sprout has its properties. This is well known by Jakob Haller (a top chef in love with the world) who in the months of May and June shares his knowledge with those who wish to discover the methods of drying and preserving plants that bloom in spring. It is well known that precisely during this season plants concentrate the best substances in the buds and sprouts. Producing preserves and protecting these properties can be a way to enrich and decorate every dish, to take care of the body and spirit throughout the year.
Herb Excursions
For those who want to discover and learn in detail the benefits of aromatic herbs, guided excursions are available until the end of July and events dedicated to the many uses of herbs can be attended. Among the unmissable appointments “Voglia di Erbe” from April 28 to May 13 in the Chiusa area and surroundings; Alto Adige Balance in the months of May and June; “Apples and Herbs” from June 28 to July 4 on the Naz-Sciaves apple plateau; “Mountain and Flower” from July 8 to 22 between Colle Isarco and Val di Fleres.
