Originally, a platter of “Marende,” as locals call this snack, was served to farmers after a hard day’s work.
Today, this culinary heritage is part and parcel of South Tyrolean cuisine and it is offered on the majority of menus throughout the region. South Tyrolean “Marende” can be enjoyed as a hiking snack at mountain huts, along with friends in a traditional inn, or during Törggelen in rustic farmhouse parlours.
Speck Alto Adige is always a key ingredient of any “Marende” snack. The smoked ham is cut into thin slices and served on a wooden board. Additional ingredients may vary according to taste but typically a “Marende” consists of thick slices of Alpine cheese from South Tyrol, smoked sausage, butter, pickles and a basket of bread featuring authentic South Tyrolean Vinschgerl bread and Schüttelbrot crispbread.
Some may prefer to enjoy a typical South Tyrolean “Marende” snack with a good glass of local wine. Low in tannin with a mild character and moderate alcohol content, South Tyrolean Vernatsch is a good choice. You also can’t go wrong with a refreshing glass of beer brewed in South Tyrol or an unfiltered apple juice.
Hard work pays off: A Marende snack tastes best after a tour through South Tyrol's mountains.
Our South Tyrol hiking tips