The charming village of Caldes, nestled in the lush vegetation of Val di Sole, greets travelers with its distinct charm and history. Caldes, located just after the valley's beginning and after the Mostizzolo Bridge, is a little jewel that has been named one of Italy's Most Beautiful Villages since July 2023. Caldes is situated between flowering apple trees and forests that gently hug the surrounding mountains. Nature's silence is broken only by the gentle flow of the Noce stream, which provides a sense of tranquility to the scene. The village, with its small and beautiful center, has a history dating back to the thirteenth century, as evidenced by structures such as Castel Caldes and the Rocca di Samoclevo. Caldes municipality has seven hamlets: Bozzana, Bordiana, San Giacomo, and Samoclevo are among the inhabited cores that emerge around the historic chapels, each with Gothic to Baroque architecture and altars. With their historic buildings and well-preserved traditions, these little communities provide a nostalgic experience. Castel Caldes, an enormous Gothic house built in the thirteenth century, is unquestionably the village's main attraction. Legend has it that the castle was where the noble Olinda was imprisoned after falling in love with the court minstrel. Today, Castel Caldes is a thriving cultural center that hosts exhibitions, events, and performances. It is also one of the sites on the Il Trenino dei Castelli tour, which takes you on a wonderful journey through Val di Sole and Val di Non castles. Caldes is an excellent starting place for exploring the surrounding wildlife. Just a short drive away is the Stelvio National Park, which boasts hiking paths, and the Folgarida-Marilleva ski region, where winter pleasure knows no bounds. For adventure seekers, the Noce stream is ideal for rafting, with skilled guides directing you down its rapids and waterfalls. You can't leave Caldes without trying the famed Casolét della Val di Sole, a soft and fresh mountain cheese scented with alpine herbs. This cheese, protected by the Slow Food Presidium, is a true representation of the local culinary culture. Every year in June, Caldes comes alive with the Arcadia Street Festival, which transforms the village into an open-air stage for music, street art, circus performances, and food and wine tasting. This festival celebrates local culture and provides an excellent opportunity to immerse oneself in the village's joyful mood. Caldes is a place where history, nature, and tradition come together harmoniously. Visiting this village means immersing yourself in a world where time appears to have stood still, allowing you to rediscover the beauty of the locations and original flavors of Trentino. Whether you enjoy history, nature, or fine food, Caldes will surprise you and provide a unique experience.
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