Meran Italian: Merano (http://www.meran.eu) is the second largest town in South Tyrol with a population of about 35,000 63,000 including the metropolitan area. A slight majority 51.5% of the population is German-speaking, while the others are Italian-speaking. Merano, with its delightfully mild climate, lovely surroundings and rich, varied vegetation, is a famous health spa resort. It is protected from the winds and bad weather by high mountains to the north, east and west and lies in a valley open towards the sunny south. 324 mts. above sea-level, Merano attracts holiday-makers, mainly Germans, throughout the year, with local hotels having 4.739 rooms and known for their high standards of comfort, service and good food. There are 52 romantic, old castles in and around the town, some used as hotels or museums while others are still private residences.
