The Area
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Around the Dickerhof
The Dickerhof is situated on the Salten plateau, a sun-drenched and scenic region in South Tyrol. The plateau is known for its expansive larch meadows and tranquil, nature-friendly environment. Hiking trails crisscross the area, providing opportunities for leisurely walks and longer excursions through forests and across meadows.
Nearby stretches the Sarntal (Val Sarentino), an unspoiled valley surrounded by the mountains of the Sarntal Alps. The valley is characterized by small villages and pristine nature that invite exploration and hiking. The Sarner Scharte (Monte Villandro), a prominent mountain pass, is visible from the Dickerhof. It is a popular destination for hikers, offering impressive views of the surrounding mountain landscape.
Not far from Dickerhof lies Bolzano, the capital of South Tyrol. Bolzano combines Alpine traditions with Mediterranean flair and offers a wide range of cultural and culinary experiences. The historic old town with its arcades, the Archaeology Museum featuring the glacier mummy Ötzi, and the vibrant markets make Bolzano an exciting destination for a day trip.
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A special highlight in the area is the new hiking bridge set to open at the end of 2024. This bridge, considered the highest and longest in Italy, connects the Salten plateau with the Sarntal valley, offering spectacular views and a unique hiking experience.
A new adventure trail starting in Avigna leads hikers into the impressive rocky gorge of the "Marterloch". Along the way, it tells the most exciting stories and adventures of the region, making it an absolute must-do!
Village Life in Afing (Avigna)
The Dickerhof is located in the picturesque village of Afing (Avigna), one of the districts of the municipality of Jenesien near Bolzano in South Tyrol. With approximately six hundred residents, Afing is situated at an elevation of around eight hundred seventy meters and spans various altitudes, including the farms of Hinterafing and Schwarzeck. The village lies on the southeastern side of the Tschögglberg (Monzoccolo), a ridge of the Sarntal Alps, offering a tranquil, nature-friendly atmosphere.
The name Afing (Avigna) is derived from the Latin word Avia, which roughly translates to "remote area."
In the past, Afing was only accessible by a path from Jenesien or Rafenstein near Bolzano. Today, the village is easily reached via a well-developed road and is connected by bus to the main town of Jenesien as well as to Bolzano. Popular hiking destinations around Afing include the Salten, Hauserberg, and Jenesinger Jöchl. Mountain bikers and horseback riders also find plenty of opportunities here. Along the way, numerous inns and mountain huts invite visitors to take a break and enjoy traditional South Tyrolean cuisine.
A new themed trail, the "Avia - Der Holzfällerweg", translated to "Avia – The Lumberjack Trail," leads from the village of Jenesien to the Sarner Gorge. This trail, named after the Latin name for Afing, "Avia," winds through the forest and recalls the area’s original seclusion.
In the height of summer, the holiday village of Afing hosts the Afing Church Festival, featuring a festival lottery, South Tyrolean dishes, and live music, inviting everyone to join in the celebration.
