Ossana

Ossana is a mountain village in the Val di Sole, at the foot of the Presanella group peaks, on the road to the Val di Peio. In 2022 it gained recognition as one of the Most Beautiful Villages in Italy.

With its buildings, houses, ancient churches and San Michele Castle, the architecture in Ossana has all the history of an ancient village, which was a political, administrative and ecclesiastical centre in ancient times.

Surrounded by forests, Ossana is the starting point for many hiking itineraries, from easy walks to high-altitude climbs. Just a few kilometres away, towards Val di Peio, lies the Stelvio National Park with dense forests, streams, lakes and perennial snow on the peaks.

So far we have talked about the beauty of Ossana’s historic centre and the woods surrounding it. But, while spending time in this village, try raising your eyes to the sky: here, especially at night, you can admire one of the most beautiful skies in Italy!

What to see in Ossana

Your visit to Ossana can begin at the Church of San Vigilio, the oldest in the Alta Val di Sole. Built from 1180 AD, it houses two altars, one made of marble and one of wood.

San Michele Castle, or Ossana Castle as it is otherwise known, probably dates back to the Longobard era and comprises imposing walls, a drawbridge, a fortified forepart and an impressive 25-metre high keep.It is one of the four Trentino castles, forming part of the Trenino dei Castelli tour, which traverses the Val di Non and Val di Sole in summer.

A little gem that requires a reservation at the Fondazione San Vigilio is the “Stuva Nova”, an old stùa, with richly ornamented carved wooden walls, tables, chairs, an ornate stove and several paintings.

Things to do in Ossana

In winter Ossana is the village of 1,000 nativity scenes. From the end of November until the Epiphany, 1,000 nativity scenes are displayed on the fountains and in the old vòlti, with the small wooden statuettes encompassing all the beauty of their craftsmen’s skill. In San Michele Castle you’ll also have the chance to see a special one dedicated to World War I.

Love skiing? Ossana is a convenient base for reaching blue, red and black slopes with modern, fast ski lifts. Folgarida-Marilleva, the largest ski area in Trentino, Peio and Passo Tonale are very close to the village.

In summer, nature will bring you back to the Stelvio National Park for wildlife watching experiences or hikes accompanied by guides. Then, if you’re looking for excitement, try rafting in the turbulent waters of the Noce river – named by National Geographic as one of the top ten most beautiful rivers in the world to do rafting.

A weekend in Ossana and its surroundings

Check out our 2-day itinerary based in Ossana, to be done from March to October.

What to eat in Ossana

When visiting Ossana, you can’t miss the famous Casolét from Val di Sole, a traditional soft, raw mountain cheese with the scent of alpine herbs, white or faintly straw in colour, with a sweet, delicate flavour. Protected by the Slow Food Presidium, Casolét is produced from raw milk in the traditional way, and eaten fresh.

Then, there is no shortage of delicious cured meats and salamis, including luganega, speck and pancetta, which you can try together with potato tortel – a Trentino cuisine classic!