A historic spa as a starting point into the Sarntine Alps: The Scaleres Bath was once a meeting place for the nobility and clergy
Image gallery: Scaleres
Near Varna in the wide Bressanone basin, a narrow mountain road branches off into the Valle di Scaleres. Right at the entrance to the valley, a local recreation area with sunbathing lawns and quiet zones has been established along the Rio di Scaleres stream. A fish ladder now allows fish to pass along the stream without obstruction. This green spot by the water is now a popular meeting place for the residents of Varna. Further into the valley, you will reach Bagni di Scaleres.
This place, the Scaleres Bath, is known for its former "Bauernbadl" (a rustic spa), whose iron-rich water was said to have healing properties. The Novacella Abbey had it built 400 years ago, and later, nobles and clergy frequented the spa and the nearby hunting lodge.
The village itself is clustered around the Parish Church of St. Wolfgang, the school, the inn, and the multi-purpose hall. There is a bus stop. Scaleres (Schalders) is a good starting point for tours into the Sarentino Alps: From the hiking car park, you can reach the impressive Laghi Gelati lakes, which are located on the crossing from Scaleres to Valdurna in the rear Val Sarentino valley.
Mt. Corno del Ceppo, a popular peak in the Sarentino Alps also known as Schrotthorn, is also a worthwhile destination from here, offering a scenic ski tour in winter. You can also explore the valley on foot from Varna and take a three-and-a-half-hour hike to Spelonca.
