Caldes
A historic village for a holiday in nature
- A visit to Caldes Castle
- Rafting on the Noce river
- Taking the Trenino dei Castelli train tour
In Val di Sole, just a little way into the valley and over the Mostizzolo bridge, you’ll find the village of Caldes. This neat and well-kept little town joined the official list of Italy’s Most Beautiful Villages in July 2023.
The area around it is covered with apple trees, and with the forests that sweep along the surrounding slopes. The silence of this green landscape is broken only by the sound of the Noce river, rushing by lower down. If you go deeper into the valley, leaving Caldes behind you, you will find yourself in the natural surroundings of the Stelvio National Park.
Caldes is the centre of a municipality that stretches across seven districts: the settlements of Bozzana, Bordiana, San Giacomo and Samoclevo all cluster around ancient chapels that still preserve Gothic and Baroque structures and altars. The centre of Caldes is small yet lovely, bearing the traces of a history that dates back to the year 1200, in the form of Caldes Castle and the Rocca di Samoclevo.
It is thought that a hot water spring which no longer exists was what gave the village its name, recorded as Caldis or Caldesio in scrolls dating back to 1200 AD.
Things to see
Caldes Castle, the village’s main attraction, was built in the 13th century. Legend has it that this Gothic-style castle was used to imprison the noblewoman Olinda, guilty of falling in love with the court minstrel.
Its appearance has changed greatly over the centuries, from the 1200s to the late 16th century. The manor house is open to visitors and often holds exhibitions and events. Caldes Castle is also one of the four castles that you can visit as part of the Il Trenino dei Castelli experience: a special little train that takes visitors on a tour of the castles of Val di Sole and Val di Non.
Things to do
You might also choose Caldes for a chance to immerse yourself in nature and experience the open-air sports ground that is Val di Sole. The village is close to Folgarida-Marilleva, Trentino’s largest ski resort. You can explore the trails on foot or by bike all year round.
The Noce river is right below the village, offering a rafting experience that’s one of our top tips. You will be accompanied by expert guides at all times, on an adventure through rapids and wild, rushing waters on board a rubber dinghy.
Things to taste
You can try the famous Val di Sole Casolét: a typical soft mountain cheese with a light or slightly straw-like colour, featuring the scent of herbs from the Alpine pastures and a sweet, delicate flavour. Protected by its Slow Food designation, Casolét is traditionally made from raw milk and eaten fresh.
