Alto Adige

Extending south from the Réesia (Reschen) pass is the upper Adige (Etsch) valley, which from here to Merano is known as the Val Venosta (Vintschgau), with the most massive peaks (about 3,000m/10,000ft) of the Eastern Alps, from which the Val Passiria (Passeiertal) branches off and runs north to the Passo di Monte Giovo (Jaufenpass, 2,094m/6,910ft). Beyond this is Vipiteno (Sterzing) in the Isarco (Eisack) valley, which farther south is joined by the Pusteria (Puster) valley.

The economy of the Alto Adige still depends mainly on the vigor and energy of its farming population. Corn-growing is steadily declining in favor of fodder crops (maize) and seed potatoes. In this region forestry is an important activity, while the extensive Alpine meadows provide pasture for cattle (particularly dairy cows); Haflinger horses are prized both as working and as riding animals. The Bolzano area has the greatest concentration of commerce and industry (Bolzano Trade Fair; metal-working, particularly iron, aluminum and magnesium; engineering, vehicle manufacture; chemicals; textiles, leather goods, woodworking, canning). Merano has chemical plants (artificial fertilizers, etc.). There are numerous smaller industrial and craft establishments in the Isarco valley (Bressanone), Val Pusteria (Brunico) and the Val Venosta.

One of the main pillars of the economy is now tourism, promoted by the incomparable beauty of the scenery, the excellent snow conditions in the high valleys in winter and the favorable climate. The region is well equipped for the tourist trade, with numerous funiculars, ski-lifts and other recreational facilities, a dense system of way-marked footpaths and routes for climbers, as well as ample accommodation for visitors, ranging from modestly priced rooms in private houses to first-class hotels offering every amenity.