Burgusio

The houses of Burgusio stand at an altitude of over 1,200 metres on the western side of the Val Venosta. It is a village on the slopes of Mt. Watles, with a tourist information, its own fire brigade, small shops, and one of South Tyrol's Gault Millau-awarded restaurants. The main nearby town of Malles boasts five towers, while Burgusio itself has an impressive four: those of the Holy Cross Chapel, St. Michael's Church, St. Nicholas' Church, and the Church of the Immaculate Conception. As you stroll through the picturesque centre, you will notice the beautiful frescoes on the houses.

Two imposing buildings watch over the village: the Prince's Castle, built by the Bishops of Chur, and the white complex of buildings on the hillside. This is the Monte Maria Abbey, Europe's highest Benedictine abbey. As one of the cultural highlights in the Upper Val Venosta, it also offers expansive views across the valley. Within its baroque structure lies a 12th-century Romanesque crypt, whose frescoes never fail to impress visitors. Its Monastery Museum is open to the public.

Besides this rich history, the natural beauty with which Burgusio (Burgeis) and its surroundings are generously blessed also deserves attention. This isn't difficult to appreciate, as mountains and meadows stretch as far as the eye can see. Burgusio lies at the foot of Mt. Watles, a rewarding destination: In summer, the Adventure Lake, designed for family fun, provides refreshment.

In autumn, the hike to the Prete Lakes, called Pfaffenseen, is a special recommendation - a true gem in the Upper Val Venosta - and in winter, the ski slopes open here. The Val Venosta Cycle Path, which follows a stage of the historic Via Claudia Augusta, also passes through the village.