The best ice skating rinks and frozen lakes in South Tyrol
Whether you’re gliding across a frozen lake surrounded by nature, enjoying a charming outdoor ice rink in one of South Tyrol’s villages, or skating indoors, ice skating is a fantastic winter activity for the whole family. Discover the best places to go ice skating with kids in South Tyrol and what you should know before heading out.
Ice Skating on South Tyrol’s Frozen Lakes
Ice skating surrounded by nature: When temperatures drop low enough, some of South Tyrol’s lakes freeze over, creating beautiful natural ice skating spots.
One of the best places to enjoy this winter experience is Lake Fiè (Völser Weiher) near Fiè allo Sciliar (Völs am Schlern). Thanks to its elevation and relatively shallow water, the lake often freezes over during cold winters. Lake Valdurna (Durnholzer See) in the Sarntal Valley and Lake Costalovara (Wolfsgrubner See) on the Renon Plateau (Ritten) also offer opportunities for skating on natural ice when conditions allow.
During particularly cold winters, Lake Caldaro (Kalterer See) and the two Monticolo Lakes (Montiggler Seen) near Appiano (Eppan) may also freeze over.
Ice skating on frozen lakes is free. If the ice is sufficiently thick and safe, it may also be possible to bring strollers or sleds onto the ice.
Important: Walking or skating on frozen lakes is always at your own risk! Be sure to read these ice safety guidelines before heading out, check local conditions and only step onto the ice when it has been confirmed safe.
Ice Skating on Natural Outdoor Ice Rinks
During winter, many villages across South Tyrol set up charming natural outdoor ice rinks. They’re perfect for enjoying some family time on the ice while soaking up the winter atmosphere.
You’ll often find small refreshment stands serving hot drinks and snacks. Skate rentals and skating aids for young beginners are also available at many rinks.
We particularly like the ice rink in Marlengo (Marling), which has a playground right next to it. We also recommend the ice rinks in Scena (Schenna), Silandro (Schlanders) and Plan (Pfelders) in the Passeiertal Valley. Unlike frozen lakes, these designated ice rinks generally don’t allow strollers or sleds on the ice.
Good to know: Natural ice rinks don’t use artificial refrigeration. The ice forms entirely through freezing outdoor temperatures, so opening times depend heavily on the weather.
Ice Skating on Artificial Outdoor Rinks and in Indoor Ice Arenas
Want to go ice skating even when temperatures aren’t below freezing? Then artificial outdoor ice rinks and indoor ice arenas in South Tyrol are a great choice!
Unlike natural ice rinks, these skating surfaces are created and maintained using refrigeration systems. This keeps the ice frozen even when temperatures rise above 0°C. The ice is usually well maintained, providing excellent conditions for both beginners and experienced skaters.
Many of these rinks are also used by ice hockey teams and figure skating clubs. That’s why they’re often only open to the public during designated public skating sessions. Make sure to check the current opening hours before your visit.
We especially recommend the Schwarzenbach ice rink in Ora (Auer) and the ice rink in Sarentino (Sarnthein).
If you’d rather skate regardless of the weather, South Tyrol also has several indoor ice rinks. They’re a great option for family fun, even when it’s snowing, raining or simply too mild for outdoor natural ice skating.
