Südtirol Guide App Logo
Download
Skip to content
Suedtirol logo
Südtirol Guide App NEW
Discover South Tyrol
For your information

added to favourites

Go to favorites

removed from favourites

Oops! Something went wrong. Try again

Your account is being created

Your account has been successfully created and you are now logged in

You’ve been logged in successfully!

Your account was created successfully, but we couldn't log you in automatically

You are logged out.

What are earth pyramids?

Natural sculptures that tell an ancient geological story 

There are special places in South Tyrol where the history of the land is revealed in extraordinary structures: earth pyramids. These unique geological formations are the result of a fascinating natural process that began thousands of years ago, when the glaciers that covered the valleys retreated, leaving behind deposits of debris and rocks. Over the millennia, the combined action of water and wind eroded these deposits, except in specific areas protected at the top by large stones, resulting in the pyramids as we see them today. This phenomenon, called differential erosion, has created a unique, almost lunar landscape. The earth pillars, which can reach astonishing heights, stand today as natural monuments, creating landscapes of great beauty in places like Ritten, Terenten/Terento and Percha. Their existence represents a delicate balance: a testament to the power of erosion and the transience of nature.

We recommend

 
 
 
 
 
 
© by Achim Meurer

Earth Pyramids of Ritten

Three different pyramid sites to admire during extraordinary excursions

The Earth Pyramids of Ritten represent one of South Tyrol's most precious treasures: silent witnesses to bygone eras and natural wonders that have enchanted through the years. Situated on the Ritten plateau, these formations are distinguished by their extraordinary structure: tall, thin earth pillars topped by boulders that act as protective caps. These "caps" prevent rainwater from directly eroding the earth beneath, allowing the pyramids to maintain their distinctive shape over time. Ritten is not only famous for these natural wonders, but also for the spectacular views of the Dolomites UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Here are three different hikes you can do to admire this unique natural spectacle from the Ritten plateau.

Trail to the Earth Pyramids of Oberbozen

Explore the earth pyramids in Oberbozen on a fascinating themed trail of approximately 5.4 km, which will lead you to discover the rich history of the area and offer breathtaking views of the Dolomites.

Begin your exploration of the Earth Pyramids of Ritten, discovering three separate routes that offer unique views of these geological phenomena and the Dolomites. Each trail will take you through breathtaking landscapes and allow you to immerse yourself in the surrounding nature.

Not far away, there is a pleasant walk to the Earth Pyramids of Lengmoos: 5.5 km from Klobenstein/Collalbo, it passes through the village of Lengmoos, offering unparalleled views of the earth pyramids and the Dolomites. Offering both accessibility and natural beauty, this route is ideal for families.

The white earth pyramids in Unterinn are a particularly fascinating sight and a chance to immerse yourself in the geological and natural history of the area on a path through diverse landscapes. Along the route, you can admire not only the earth formations, but also coniferous forests and blossoming orchards.

Earth Pyramids of Percha

The Earth Pyramids of Percha, located in the Dolomitic Kronplatz region at an altitude between 1,550 and 1,750 metres above sea level, represent an extraordinary geological phenomenon. These formations are particularly remarkable for their impressive height and the sharpness of their points, rising up in the heart of a coniferous forest with a unique majesty. These pyramids are defined by their ever-changing nature. Earth formations undergo a continuous process of erosion and renewal: as some wear away and disappear, new formations emerge, forming a dynamic and ever-evolving landscape. This natural cycle gives the earth pyramids a special charm, which you can also experience with an easy hike through the forest and meadows. Start from the centre of the village of Percha and follow the clearly visible dedicated signs to reach the pyramids on foot in about 30 minutes. 

HARALE WISTHALER

Earth Pyramids of Dorf Tirol and Kuens

In Dorf Tirol, fascinating moraine formations catch the eye in the Rio della Muta gorge, near Tyrol Castle, and in the Finele valley, near Kuens. The best way to admire the earth pyramids in the Finele valley up close is to embark on a hike from Dorf Tirol to Kuens. If, on the other hand, you would like to enjoy a stunning view of the pyramids near Castle Tyrol, you can opt for a trip on the Hochmuth Cable Car,  which takes you to the slopes of the Muta, where you can enjoy beautiful views of the pyramids from above. Alternatively, you can choose to walk along the Sentiero della Signoria path or take a stroll from Tyrol Castle to the Farmerkreuz.

IDM Südtirol-Alto Adige/Frieder Blickle

Earth Pyramids of Terenten

In the small town of Terenten, nestled in the Puster Valley, there are more spectacular earth pyramids, set apart by their light colour. These extraordinary formations are the result of a landslide triggered by a storm in 1837, which swept away huge amounts of debris along the Terenten stream. However, the material that makes up the pyramids was deposited many centuries earlier by the last ice age. To get a closer look at these wonders, the adventure begins in  the large car park in the heart of Terenten. Following the signs towards the Sentiero dei Mulini, which winds through the valley, you can easily reach the pyramids. To return, you can follow the same route or, if you prefer a loop, continue along the path, crossing the Terenten stream. 

TV Terenten

Earth Pyramids of Jenesien

You can also find several fascinating witnesses of the last ice age in the Jenesien area. The  Earth Pyramids of Jenesien are located in a small hamlet in the municipality of Nobls/Montoppio, at Wieser Lahn, at an altitude of about 1,270 metres. These formations are characterised by their vivid red clay soil, which creates a striking contrast against the surrounding green meadows and forests. 

IDM Südtirol-Alto Adige/Achim Meurer

Earth Pyramids of Steinegg

You can also discover marvellous earth pyramids in Steinegg, nestled in the woods of the Eggental Valley. The hike to the Steinegg pyramids  is rated as medium difficulty: follow a circular route totalling about 5 km  to encounter these clay giants. Starting from Steinegg, following the signs for the "Piramidi Gialle", you will enter the gorge of the Katzenbach stream, walking under the imposing clay figures along the Lahnen path. The route continues uphill to the Raffeinerhof farm, then past the Dosser Cross, from where it descends again to the pyramids. Path number 2 marks the way back to Steinegg, crossing the impressive Katzenbach path.

IDM Südtirol-Alto Adige/Alfred Tschager
Accommodation image
Finish your booking for
Accommodation name
0  room rooms Not selected No board Breakfast Half board Full board All inclusive
Total price: 0 €
(incl. VAT / excl. local tourism tax)