Apple harvest in Val di Non and Val di Sole

Autumn in Val di Non and Val di Sole smells of apples. From late summer through autumn, the orchards of these two valleys come alive for the apple harvest, an important part of local farming and a fascinating experience for visitors to Trentino.

When are the apples harvested?

The apple harvest in Val di Non and Val di Sole mainly takes place between late August and mid-October, depending on the variety, altitude and ripeness of the fruit.

In Val di Non, some of the first apples to be picked are generally Gala, with the harvest beginning towards the end of August in the lower areas. The season then continues with other varieties and ends in autumn with Fuji, among the last apples to be harvested.

In Val di Sole, especially in the lower part of the valley, apple growing is closely connected to neighbouring Val di Non. Here too, apples are mainly harvested by hand during the autumn months.

The harvest therefore follows the natural ripening cycle: not all apples are ready at the same time, and farmers carefully choose the right moment to pick each variety.

Which apple varieties are grown?

The orchards of the Non and Sole Valleys are home to varieties such as Gala, Golden Delicious, Red Delicious, Granny Smith, Braeburn and Fuji, as well as other varieties and cultivars grown locally.

Val di Non is particularly famous for its Melinda DOP apples, while in the lower Val di Sole apples are grown within the same production area connected to neighbouring Val di Non.

The remarkable biodiversity of apples can also be discovered at Pomaria's pomological exhibition, where visitors can see modern, ancient and historic varieties.

MelaColgo: pick apples straight from the tree

If you want to experience the harvest yourself, try MelaColgo, an activity designed for visitors and families.

The experience takes place both in Val di Non and Val di Sole, at farms belonging to the Agritur Ambasciatori Melinda network.

Visitors can enter a real apple orchard with a local farmer, discover how an apple farm works and learn how to pick an apple correctly straight from the tree. The experience also includes a walk through the orchard, stories about apple growing and a snack featuring local apple products.

It is an easy-going and authentic activity, particularly suitable for families with children, offering a chance to discover one of Trentino's most iconic products at its source.

Pomaria: the celebration of apples and the harvest

The apple harvest is celebrated with Pomaria, the festival dedicated to apples, the harvest and the flavours of the Non and Sole Valleys.

The event is organised by the Strada della Mela e dei Sapori delle Valli di Non e di Sole and brings together farming, food, traditions and local culture.

At Pomaria, visitors can discover different apple varieties, enjoy tastings and workshops, watch cooking demonstrations and meet local producers. The festival is also an opportunity to learn about the agricultural traditions of the valleys and everything connected with apple growing.

During harvest season, Val di Non and Val di Sole are an ideal destination for an autumn holiday surrounded by apple orchards, mountains, local food and traditions. From picking apples straight from the tree to experiencing Pomaria, the apple harvest is a unique way to discover an authentic side of Trentino.