Sissi's Path

This scenic route, known as the Sentiero di Sissi in Italian and the Sissiweg in German, leads to the areas of town most beloved by Empress Elisabeth of Austria, better known as Sissi. The charming Habsburg sovereign stayed in Merano several times in the second half of the nineteenth century, and was enchanted by its charm. This path dedicated to her connects the Gardens of Trauttmansdorff Castle with the city centre; it passes through eleven stages along the way, each with a story to tell. From the castle that majestically dominates the botanical gardens, Sissi’s Path winds its way past Pienzenau and Rubein Castles, the Reichenbach Residence, Piazza Fontana (Brunnenplatz), Rottenstein Castle, and the Bavaria Hotel; it then continues down to the river, crosses the Roman Bridge, skirts the Wandelhalle and finally pays homage to the empress in the park dedicated to her. The park is on the edge of the Summer Promenade and there is a statue erected in Sissi’s honour. Obviously, the trail can be followed in either direction.