The controversial turnstile reactivated on the Seceda hiking path in Val Gardena is “certainly not legitimate” as it lacks required landscape authorization in the protected zone, South Tyrol Governor Arno Kompatscher stated. He emphasized that intervention falls to the local mayor, following reports the landowner reinstated the toll-collecting barrier.
“To my knowledge, the municipality has already acted,” Kompatscher added. “If not, the provincial landscape protection authority also has the power to step in. We cannot have individuals arbitrarily planting posts wherever they please.”
Addressing the broader issue of overtourism, Kompatscher confirmed ongoing meetings between provincial officials, Val Gardena mayors, stakeholders, and others. “This isn’t just about discussion anymore – we’ve done plenty of that. Many solutions are already planned or identified as viable. Now we need implementation, and this concerns more than just Val Gardena or South Tyrol,” he stated.
Kompatscher clarified no single measure would suffice, advocating instead for “a mix” including booking systems, timed entry slots with visitor caps, digital information platforms, apps, and supporting infrastructure.
“‘Hit-and-run tourism’ is a relatively new phenomenon that has now exceeded tolerable limits,” Kompatscher concluded. “Methods must be found to manage these new situations while protecting the environment, residents, and traditional tourism.”