Vigiljoch, Lana’s local mountain, has long been a retreat for city dwellers seeking fresh mountain air and a peaceful summer escape. Nestled among the conifers, wooden holiday chalets cling to the hillside, telling stories of another era, when people raced down the uneven larch meadows on wooden skis and gathered in summer to hike, relax and celebrate together after working in the woods and meadows.
Where our fondest childhood memories live, a piece of our heart is never far away. Nostalgia comes naturally up here, lingering among the lingonberry bushes, alpine meadows and the scent of conifers. Vigiljoch is completely car-free, and the cable car from Lana reaches the mountain station at 1,486 metres in just eight minutes. Those wishing to travel a little higher can take the leisurely chairlift. There is no need to rush here, something you quickly come to appreciate.
Some trails on Mount Vigiljoch are suitable for pushchairs, while others wind through the forest as narrow footpaths. When exploring with children, the flexibility to adapt your route is especially welcome. Trails frequently intersect, offering different ways to reach your destination. That might be the Schwarze Lacke biotope, the historic St Vigilius Church or, for experienced hikers, the summit of Naturnser Hochwart. For most children, however, the playgrounds and animal park are among the highlights of Vigiljoch.
Several mountain inns serve delicious South Tyrolean specialities, and even fine dining has found its way up the mountain. The views towards the Dolomites are breathtaking, and as we gaze across to the opposite side, we cannot help but wonder: what might it be like over there?