Typical Products of Alpe Cimbra
Alpe Cimbra boasts a wide variety of local products that showcase the richness of the region. One of the most renowned is
Vezzena cheese, a long-aged dairy specialty with an intense and aromatic flavor, perfect for enjoying on its own or as an ingredient in traditional dishes like polenta. The Caseificio del Vezzena in Lavarone offers visitors the chance to witness the cheese-making process firsthand.
Another standout product is Trentino
speck, a smoked and seasoned ham with a strong, rich taste, best enjoyed with rye bread or paired with a glass of local Trentino wine.
Lucanica trentina, a traditional spiced sausage, is another must-try for cured meat enthusiasts.
Among the finest local crops, the
Nosellari leeks stand out—a rare and delicate variety ideal for soups, risottos, and traditional recipes. The
wild mushrooms found in the region, including
chanterelles and porcini, are another prized ingredient, adding depth and flavor to sauces, main courses, and hearty
polenta dishes.
Cheese Production in the Alpine Huts
The alpine huts (
malghe) of
Alpe Cimbra offer visitors
authentic dairy experiences, showcasing traditional cheese-making techniques. Guests can observe cow milking and the
transformation of fresh milk into high-quality cheeses.
Alongside Vezzena cheese,
Maso Guez, a local farm, produces artisanal goat cheeses, made using traditional mountain methods. Maso Guez also offers goat trekking experiences, where visitors can explore scenic trails accompanied by friendly goats.
Tasting fresh butter, ricotta, and natural yogurts is an unmissable experience for food lovers.
Traditional Dishes of Alpe Cimbra
Alpe Cimbra’s cuisine is rich in
hearty and authentic dishes. Among the most famous are
canederli, traditional bread dumplings made with speck, cheese, or spinach, served in broth or with melted butter. Equally delicious are
strangolapreti, soft spinach and bread gnocchi dressed with butter and sage, offering a simple yet intense flavor.
Polenta, the queen of mountain cuisine, is often served with
melted cheese, wild mushrooms, or venison stew, creating a perfect balance between tradition and taste.
Desserts, Beverages, and Authentic Flavors
For those with a sweet tooth,
apple strudel is a must-try, made with Val di Non apples, cinnamon, and flaky pastry. Another regional delight is Torta di Fregoloti, a crumbly butter and almond cake, perfect when paired with a cup of mountain herbal tea.
Dessert lovers will also enjoy
krapfen, soft doughnuts filled with jam or custard, often served during traditional village festivals. Another favorite is
fortaie, spiral-shaped fried pastries dusted with powdered sugar and best enjoyed with a spoonful of wild berry jam.
Locally produced
honey, featured at the
Honey Museum, plays a key role in traditional Trentino baking, enriching biscuits, cakes, and artisanal candies with its natural sweetness.
To conclude any meal in style, a glass of
Trentino grappa or a flute of
Trento Doc sparkling wine—one of Italy’s finest Metodo Classico sparkling wines—is the perfect finishing touch.
Gourmet Trails and Food Tourism in Alpe Cimbra
During the summer, gourmet trails wind through high-altitude mountain huts and alpine refuges, accessible by hiking or mountain biking. These routes allow visitors to tour artisanal dairies, witness cheese production, and savor local specialties against a breathtaking mountain backdrop.
A truly unique experience is
goat trekking, where guests can hike through scenic trails alongside friendly goats, immersing themselves in nature from a fresh perspective.
The Honey Museum: Discovering the World of Bees
For beekeeping enthusiasts, the
Honey Museum offers an exciting journey into the world of bees. Visitors can learn about honey production, sample different varieties, and purchase natural products such as propolis and honey-based candies.
Birrificio Barbaforte: The Taste of Craft Beer
For beer lovers,
Birrificio Barbaforte produces unique craft beers using pure mountain water and high-quality local ingredients. Beer tastings offer the perfect opportunity to discover ideal pairings with
traditional Alpe Cimbra delicacies.A Journey Through Taste and NatureAlpe Cimbra is a place where nature and culinary traditions come together, creating unforgettable experiences. Whether through hiking, gourmet tastings, or traditional dishes, every visit becomes a journey into the heart of Trentino’s rich cultural and gastronomic heritage.
Welcome to the Land of the Cimbri, where tradition meets flavor! 
