Nova Ponente
Nova Ponente (Deutschnofen in German) is a municipality in South Tyrol set on a sun-drenched plateau stretching between the city o...
Updated 17 July 2026
This season · July · Summer
What to do in Nova Ponente now
The story
The story of Nova Ponente
A sun-drenched plateau between Bolzano and the Val d'Ega
Nova Ponente sits on a broad plateau that ideally links the Bolzano basin to the Val d'Ega, at an altitude that favours a mild climate and plenty of sunshine even in the winter months. The village, with its hamlets scattered among meadows and woods, preserves an old-world atmosphere made of wood-and-stone farmhouses, onion-domed bell towers and country lanes that climb gently toward the higher pastures. This central position makes Nova Ponente a convenient starting point both for visitors arriving from Bolzano by car or public transport and for those heading on toward the Val d'Ega and the Dolomite passes. The plateau, set away from the traffic of the main valleys, offers open views of the surrounding mountains and a peaceful atmosphere that suits relaxing stays, family walks and active holidays all year round.
The Latemar, the Corno Bianco and the Dolomites UNESCO site
Nova Ponente's skyline is marked by the Latemar, an imposing Dolomite group of slender spires and sheer walls, and by the Corno Bianco (Weißhorn), the massif's highest peak, recognisable by the pale rock that gives it its name. Both are part of the Dolomites system, declared a UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site for its geological value and landscape unique in the world. The Latemar's walls change colour with the daylight, shifting from light grey to shades of pink and orange at sunset, a spectacle that can be admired from numerous viewpoints reachable on foot from Nova Ponente. The trails leading toward the Corno Bianco cross conifer woods and alpine pastures, offering ever-changing views of the Catinaccio (Rosengarten) group and the other surrounding Dolomite peaks, an ideal destination for hikers and landscape photographers.
Skiing at Obereggen, Ski Center Latemar
In winter Nova Ponente becomes an ideal base for snow sports thanks to its proximity to Obereggen, the heart of the Ski Center Latemar area, which unfolds right at the foot of the Latemar massif. The slopes, well groomed and sun-facing, suit both experienced skiers and families with children, and are served by modern lifts that keep queues to a minimum. The ski area connects to the wider Val d'Ega skiing circuit and also offers toboggan runs, cross-country ski trails and dedicated freestyle zones. The combination of Dolomite scenery, quality snow and sunny exposure has made Obereggen one of the most popular winter destinations in South Tyrol, drawing both sport-focused skiers and those who prefer a quieter pace among mountain huts and panoramic terraces.
Lake Carezza nearby
A short distance from Nova Ponente lies one of the symbols of the Dolomites: Lake Carezza (Karersee), a small alpine lake famous worldwide for its shifting colours ranging from emerald to turquoise, caused by dissolved minerals and the purity of its water. The natural backdrop is provided by the walls of the Latemar itself, reflected in the lake's surface to create almost surreal images, especially in the calm waters of early morning. The lake is easily accessible and surrounded by a comfortable loop path suitable for families and occasional walkers alike, with scenic rest points and information panels on the local legend tied to its waters. The proximity of Lake Carezza makes Nova Ponente a practical base for combining walks on the plateau with a visit to one of the most photographed landscape icons in the entire Alpine arc.
Farmsteads, hiking and nature
The territory of Nova Ponente is characterised by a dense fabric of traditional farmsteads, many still active in livestock farming and dairy production, dotting hay meadows and conifer woods up to the plateau's highest elevations. A network of well-marked trails links the farmsteads to scenic viewpoints, mountain huts and alpine pastures where visitors can stop to taste local products such as speck, mountain cheeses and canederli. In summer the pastures come alive with free-grazing livestock and events tied to farming tradition, while in autumn the larch woods glow with colour. The hiking network connects to more demanding trails toward the Latemar and the Corno Bianco, but also offers easier routes suitable for families, making Nova Ponente a versatile destination for those seeking authentic contact with the nature and rural culture of South Tyrol.
Not to be missed
- Hike at the foot of the Latemar toward the Corno Bianco (Weißhorn)
- Loop walk around Lake Carezza (Karersee)
- A day of skiing at Obereggen, in the Ski Center Latemar area
- Visit a traditional farmstead on the plateau with local produce tasting
- Scenic viewpoints across the plateau between Nova Ponente, Bolzano and the Val d'Ega
To see
What to see in Nova Ponente
Routes · Trovido Route
