The Renon Train is one of the most authentic symbols of the plateau above Bolzano. This narrow-gauge railway, inaugurated in 1907, is today the last of its kind in South Tyrol and offers a travel experience that blends Alpine landscapes, history, and tradition. As it moves slowly through forests, farms and meadows, the train preserves the charm of the Belle Époque, when mountain tourism first began to flourish.
The panoramic route connecting Soprabolzano and Collalbo offers privileged views of the Dolomites, allowing visitors to enjoy a slow, atmospheric journey across the Renon Plateau.
A Journey Through History: From its Origins to the Present
The Renon Train was inspired by the modern Swiss mountain railways that were highly appreciated by well-to-do travelers of the era. Designed to make the Renon heights accessible, it immediately became an important resource for local residents by improving connections, trade, and development.
For decades, the railway also included an impressive rack-and-pinion section that climbed directly from Bolzano to the plateau. In 1966, this section was replaced by a new cable car. In 2009, the original cable car was itself replaced with the current Renon Cable Car, which today links Bolzano and Soprabolzano in just 12 minutes.
The remaining railway line still runs between Soprabolzano and Collalbo, operated with a mix of perfectly restored historic carriages and modern trains. It is a short route, but rich in views and atmosphere, making the journey truly unique.
Line Stops and Itineraries
The Renon Railway has four main stops:
- Maria Assunta
- Soprabolzano
- Stella
- Collalbo
Each stop serves as an ideal starting point for exploring the surrounding area through panoramic trails, museums, historic farmsteads and routes suitable for both families and experienced hikers.
From Soprabolzano
- The Forest Walk leading to the Meltina viewpoint, overlooking Bolzano
- Trail 6A, ideal for spotting deer and small local farms
- The famous Earth Pyramids of Renon, one of South Tyrol’s most notable natural phenomena
From Stella
- The village of Kematen, with its chapel and Gothic stube
- The Beekeeping Museum at the Plattner Farm
- Lake Costalovara, perfect for relaxing walks year-round
From Collalbo
The Freud Promenade, a scenic and family-friendly trail beloved by Sigmund Freud, suitable even for strollers
Christmas Markets
During the Christmas season, the Renon Christmas Train Market (Trenatale) offers local crafts and traditional products showcased inside original historic railway carriages. On market days, visitors can ride the train to explore both village centers accompanied by festive music and traditional songs.
Timetables, Technical Details and Prices
The service operates all year round, every day from 6:08 AM to 11:16 PM.
From Easter to All Saints’ Day and during the Christmas period, one of the two historic locomotives makes two morning trips—depending on weather conditions and passenger numbers (this service is not guaranteed).
Technical Data
- Duration of the trip: approx. 18 minutes
- Maximum speed: 30 km/h
- Gauge: 1 m
- Track length: 6.8 km
- Maximum gradient: 4.5%
Ticket Prices
Single Tickets
- One-way Renon Train: €5
- Round-trip Renon Train: €8
Combined Tickets
- One-way cable car + Renon Train: €12
- Round-trip cable car + Renon Train: €20
Day Passes & Mobilcards
Mobilcard is available for 1, 3, or 7 consecutive days.
Junior Mobilcard available for children aged 6–13.
- Mobilcard 1 day: adults €20 / children €10
- Mobilcard 3 days: adults €30 / children €15
- Mobilcard 7 days: adults €50 / children €25
- Other valid tickets: Alto Adige Guest Pass, Euregio 2 Plus, Alto Adige Pass.
Transporting Animals
- Small pets in a suitable carrier travel free of charge
- All other pets: €2 (single ticket) or €3.50 (day ticket)
- Dogs must wear a muzzle (except those in carriers)
- Guide dogs travel free and without a muzzle
Useful Information
- Children under 6 travel for free
- Wheelchair users can request assistance from the ticket operator at Soprabolzano or Collalbo
- Bicycles are not transported on the Renon Train
- Reservations for tickets or seats are not available
How to Get There
You can reach the Renon Plateau via:
- The Renon Cable Car, which departs from Bolzano and arrives in Soprabolzano, where the narrow-gauge train begins its route
- Bus 165, which runs every hour on weekdays and every two hours on holidays from Auna di Sotto to Collalbo, where connections to other local destinations are available
