Castel Thun

Castel Thun rises on a hill above Vigo di Ton in the Val di Non. The castle was originally called Castel Belvesino and later took the name of the Tono family, who Germanised their name to Thun. After several fires it was rebuilt in the 16th century. It has around 150 rooms, with cellars and storerooms hewn out of the rock. Among the highlights are the Bishop's Room panelled in Swiss stone pine, the Globe Room and the Ancestors' Hall with its portraits; the chapel of St George has 15th-century frescoes.

After 18 years of restoration, the castle opened in April 2010; it belongs to the Autonomous Province of Trento. Only part of it is open to visitors, and the entrance is at the Spanish Gate of 1566. Allow about an hour and a half. In summer a shuttle runs from the square in Vigo di Ton to the castle car park. Note the closing days and check the opening times beforehand.

The tour also takes in the kitchens, the living quarters with majolica stoves, tapestries and paintings, and a carriage gallery in the former stables. Italian-style gardens with a lawn and a fountain lie on the lower level, there is a café in the upper courtyard, and the small church of San Martino stands below the castle. Because of the many stairs, a baby carrier works better than a pushchair, and sturdy shoes are sensible. According to a family guide, the castle usually stays closed from All Saints’ Day until late November; check beforehand.