Südtirol Guide App
South Tyrol´s digital travel guide
It runs along the opposite side of the Passer River compared to the Winter Promenade and provides a refreshing escape, thanks to the many shade-giving trees that line the path – including Lebanese cedars, sequoias, poplars, and various species of pine. The promenade begins in Elisabeth Park, a 7,100-square-metre green space that not only offers tranquillity and relaxation but also features a unique monument: an elegant statue of the Austrian Empress Elisabeth, affectionately known as Sisi. Created in 1903 by the sculptor Hermann Klotz from Imst, using white Laas marble, the statue shows the empress seated in a quiet, contemplative, almost solitary moment on a grassy patch, lending the sculpture an understated dignity.
Merano has a long tradition of urban planning, which dates back to 1850, when the town’s development as a spa destination began. The city made clever use of the Passer’s embankment walls, creating extensive recreational areas in the second half of the 19th century, including the summer park that is now Elisabeth Park. The aim was to blend nature with the urban landscape by integrating green spaces and botanical highlights, thus giving the growing spa town the character of a garden city. Merano’s favourable climate played a crucial role in this: warm air flows in from the south through the broad Adige Valley, while the towering Texel mountain range to the north protects the town from cold winds. This mild, sub-Mediterranean climate allows a rich variety of plants from the Mediterranean, Asia, and North America to thrive here – a true paradise for nature lovers.
The Summer Promenade owes its name to the many trees that grow along its path, providing shade and a welcome sense of refreshment to those out for a walk. Strolling here, one can experience the history of Merano in all its richness – from its imperial past to its years as a renowned spa destination – while being surrounded by a natural environment that is far more than just a place to unwind: it is a haven of inspiration, peace, and beauty.
Along the Summer Promenade, there are also some artworks from the cultural project Art & Nature, which took place in 2015 and 2016 as part of the Merano Spring festival. The aim of the project was to set natural sites in Meran’s urban setting and artworks in relation to each other.
The route is generally suitable for wheelchairs and prams, although most of the path consists of gravel. Some of the trails branching off from the Summer Promenade also include steps or steeper sections, so careful planning is advisable. The walk is well-suited to elderly visitors and families with children. There are several benches along the way, providing opportunities to take a break and rest.
Along Merano’s promenades, there is no tactile guidance system or other aids for visually impaired visitors.
We suggest opting for comfortable footwear and bringing along a reusable water bottle, easily refillable at the fountains conveniently placed along the route. Water flows in the drinking fountains from spring to autumn. Depending on the weather and temperatures, the fountains are in operation from the beginning/middle of April to the middle/end of October.
The Summer Promenade is especially beloved during the summer months and is highly recommended. It charms visitors with its beautiful surroundings, featuring numerous plants and large trees that provide pleasant shade and ease the heat. As the promenade runs along the Passer River, a refreshing breeze often blows, making the temperatures more bearable. Sit on one of the benches, let your gaze wander, and listen to the soothing sound of the river – the perfect moment to relax.
To fully enjoy your walk, keep a few simple things in mind: Wear light, airy clothing made of natural fibres like linen, which will keep your body comfortably cool. A hat or cap and sunglasses will protect you from the sun. Don't forget to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. Light snacks like fruit or vegetables are ideal to keep you feeling fresh and fit. This way, your visit to the Summer Promenade will be a relaxed and pleasant experience – even on hot days.
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