Trentino-Alto Adige's scenery is a diverse mix of snow-capped mountains, wide valleys, alpine meadows, lakes, woods and waterfalls. For outdoor enthusiasts it offers ski resorts and well-marked hiking trails, while history lovers can explore the medieval villages that dot the landscape. Ski and hike among some of the most dramatic mountain ranges in Europe and explore ancient castles and World War I sites.

The region boasts hundreds of miles of slopes spread across the ski resorts of the Dolomites, a vast mountain range in the northern Italian Alps. Ski along the runs of Madonna di Campiglio, Val Gardena and San Martino di Castrozza, among others. Take part in other snow-based activities, such as tobogganing, snowboarding and snowshoeing.

Enjoy even more outdoor pursuits in the area in the warmer months. Walk along hiking paths through the valleys of the Stelvio National Park and take in the backdrop of jagged peaks, glaciers and waterfalls. Spot wildlife such as red deer and bearded vultures. Sail and windsurf across Lake Garda, the largest lake in Italy.

One way to see the region is to hike along the Sentiero della Pace (the Path of Peace). This hiking route is more than 310 miles (500 kilometers) in length and connects places related to World War I history, such as former trenches and fortifications.

Uncover more history in Trentino-Alto Adige's old towns, cities and villages. Tour the historical center of Trento, the capital of the region. Visit its old cathedral and 13th-century castle. See the castles of the spa resort town of Merano or visit Rovereto, a city on the Adige River. In Brixen, go to the Pharmacy Museum, which covers hundreds of years of history of the pharmaceutical industry.

There are several ways to get into Trentino-Alto Adige, including by air to major airports in Verona and Venice. You can also fly into Bolzano and Trento-Mattarello airports. Travel to the towns, ski resorts and mountain ranges by car or public transportation.