Funes is a place of great scenic beauty, an alpine valley dominated by the peaks and crags of the Dolomites. Hike through green pastures at the foot of the mountains, visit picturesque villages that dot the landscape, go on winter walks through snow-covered forests and examine mountain crystals known as Teiser Balls.
Hiking is one of the most popular activities in the valley, with 33 hiking loop trails. They pass by mountain streams, across meadows and through forests of pine and spruce trees. There are also challenging mountain tracks, fixed rope climbing routes and paths for cyclists. During or after your exertions, stop by an alpine hut for some refreshments.
As well as the natural charm of Funes, the valley has a number of villages well worth exploring, especially their old churches.
Make your way to St. Magdalena to see the church of the same name, lying at the foot of Mount Ruefen. Then visit the 18th-century St. Joseph’s Church for its baroque furnishings. In the heart of Funes is the valley's main village, St. Peter. At its centre is St. Peter and St. Paul's Church, which has a 213-foot (65-metre) steeple.
The main attraction in Tiso is its mineral museum, filled with rock crystals discovered in the area. They include Teiser Balls, rocks that are embedded with several different minerals.
If you come to Funes during the winter, you will find a number of snow-based activities. Ski down the slopes of the St. Magdalena ski resort, enjoy a snowshoe hiking tour through forests and hurtle down giant toboggan runs. Your base in Funes also puts you close to plenty of ski resorts in the Dolomites.
To get to the valley, fly into Bolzano Dolomiti Airport, then take a bus, taxi or rental car to cover the 30-mile (50-kilometre) journey northeast to Funes. The scenic trip should take less than an hour.
Once you are here, travel to the attractive villages and picturesque attractions by car, buses and cable cars.
