Brilliantly coloured changes appear everywhere in nature in the mild climate of the South Tyrolean autumn. The woods turn red, yellow and brown, the last ripe grapes are harvested in the vineyards, while in the towns chestnuts and fresh autumn fruits are sold at farmers’ markets.
A pleasant tiredness spreads with the changing of the seasons. The late sunrise and the often-misty hours of morning entice one to sleep longer. The essential scent of wood has been proven to lower adrenalin levels and has a positive effect on healthy sleep. The body regenerates and pure recuperation takes place.
Cool nights and the still mild but shortening days cause great changes in nature. The tree withdraws the greenness from its leaves to save strength for the approaching winter. The remaining shades make the forests shimmer in splendid colours. During this special time of the year hikers appreciate the pleasant climate for strolls through fallen autumn leaves and mossy woodlands.
Peasants have always gathered chestnuts from the forest floor in autumn to roast on an open fire. At this harvest-time they open their farm gates and serve typical dishes such as »Blattln« (a Tyrolean potato dish), sauerkraut, and meat from the farm, as well as roasted chestnuts and young wine. The cosy evenings spent around the warmth of the fire often extend into the night.
Warmed by the summer sun, the mild air gives the autumn light a particularly soft hue. This makes the colourful leaves of the trees and shrubs shine even more brilliantly. This time of the year boasts the most beautiful Alpine glow: at sunset, the white rock of the Dolomites turns into a deep orange and pink. These sunsets are followed by autumn evenings around the campfire.