Bezienswaardigheden in Zuid-Tirol

At Hochhueben Hof farm in Partschins/Parcines, a feudal holding of the Salzburg Bishops dating to the 14th century, a Roman gravestone has been built into the front wall of the house on the right side next to the entrance. The officer Marcus Ulpius Primigenius of the customs station in Töll/Tell did this to immortalize his firstborn son Quintus Caecililus Eutropius, who died only 21 years and 11 months old.

The letters D.M. on the seal (Dis manibus– the gods of death) and the manner of execution of the lettering appear to date to the first half of the 2nd century AD.

Roman tombs and coins have also been found across the courtyard.

Regarded as one of the most beautiful garden ensembles in Europe, the Gardens of Trauttmansdorff Castle are a vibrant celebration of botanical diversity. This twelve-hectare green stage, just minutes from Merano’s historic center, invites visitors to discover exotic plant life from across the globe. Sun-kissed slopes, delicate blossoms, Mediterranean olive groves and elegantly designed lily ponds combine to tell stories of nature, culture, and a passion for beauty. But Trauttmansdorff is far more than a botanical garden. It is a landscape thoughtfully composed, where nature becomes performance – with four themed areas and over 80 garden scenes unfolding like carefully choreographed acts. Here, terraced Mediterranean gardens meet dense North American woodland; surreal desert landscapes flow into tranquil water worlds – all framed by breathtaking views of Merano and the Texel mountain range. At the heart of it all stands the majestic Trauttmansdorff Castle. Once a refuge for Empress Elisabeth of Austria – better known as Sisi – who found healing and serenity here during her extended stays, the castle today is home to the Touriseum, South Tyrol’s one-of-a-kind Museum of Tourism.

Good to know:
- Awarded “Botanical Garden of the Year” in 2005, the gardens enchant with highlights such as a walk-in aviary, an underground grotto theatre, and a sound garden that makes the voices of plants come alive.
- Nature becomes a sensory experience along the “Garden of the Senses”: touch, smell, listen – here, walking becomes wonder.
- Each summer, the gardens transform into a concert venue, attracting international artists to perform on the open-air stage nestled in lush greenery.

The Gardens of Trauttmansdorff Castle inspire visitors of all ages: adventurers who journey through millions of years on the “Geological Mosaic”; romantics who linger among roses and waterfalls; curious minds who explore how plants shape our world through interactive displays.

And perhaps most magical of all: the gardens are always changing. With every season comes a new palette – the soft glow of magnolias and tulips in spring, a riot of fragrance and color in summer, and the golden brilliance of Japanese maples in autumn.
This is not a simple stroll through flowerbeds – it is a journey around the world, an immersive adventure, and a dialogue between nature and culture.

Altitude training canoeing & kayaking on the Vernago lake

The lake in the midst of the three thousand metre peaks is characterised by its unique turquoise-green colour, especially in summer, which is caused by the glacier cut in tzhe water. It is not for nothing that national teams have been training on the Vernago lake for years.

A welcome guest for example is Antonio Rossi, three-time Olympic Champion and multiple Canoe World Champion.

With its location at 1,700 metres above sea level and marked rowing routes of various lengths, the lake offers ideal conditions for optimal altitude training

 

The reason for the perfonmance-enhancing effect of altitude training is easy to explain: The lack of oxygen at high altitudes forces the human organism to adapt. This affects primarily the respiratory system, the cardiovascular system and the blood.

The 3 Peaks are one of the most well-known landmarks of the Dolomites and of South Tyrol. The impressive mountains with their imposing rock formations originated over 200 million years ago and attract visitors from all over the world. Because of their extraordinary beauty the Dolomites with the 3 Peaks have been awarded UNESCO World Heritage status in 2009.

Landro in Val di Landro near Dobbiaco affords stunning views of the north faces of the 3 Peaks: these are visible only from the valley. 3 Peaks View is situated some 7 km from Dobbiaco. You get there on the road Dobbiaco-Cortina, or on the easy and popular cycle path or the cross country ski track. There is also a bus-stop nearby. Before you are the impressive north faces of the 3 Peaks, and in the South arises the impressive mountain range of Monte Cristallo and its reflection in nearby Lago di Landro. The majestic Monte Piano, one of the main theatres of the Dolomites War, is also visible from here.

Viewpoint to the north faces of the 3 Peaks
You reach the vantage point through a portal, which represents the formation of the mountains. It is designed in concrete made from Dolomite rock and refers back to the nearby fortresses that were built by Austria at the end of the 19th century to secure the border (until 1918 South Tyrol belonged to Austria). A wooden platform provides information on the nature and landscape and the history of the exploration of the Dolomites by mountaineers. Through a free telescope visitors can admire the panorama of the Dolomites from a distance. The rugged and distinctive rock formations are very close, and you can even watch climbers on their vertical challenge. A relief model of the peaks shows the most important climbing tours of the north faces. The routes are also added in Braille.

From Dobbiaco in Alta Pusteria you can reach the Landro lake in the Landro-Valley, at an altitude of 1406 m. It is already in the Three Peaks Nature Park, so it is a protected area, and the Fanes-Sennes-Braies Nature Park is directly adjacent to its western shore. The magnificent mountain scenery around the turquoise-green Dolomite lake is known far and wide: The view reaches as far as the Cristallo Group in the Ampezzo Dolomites, and near the lake, in the direction of Dobbiaco, is the well-known "Three Peaks View" with a view of the world-famous Three Peaks.                                                                         

“It is wonderful here and definitely invigorates soul and body....” so wrote Mahler during his summer stay in Toblach.

During the sommermonth between 1908-1910 Gustav Mahler composed some of his most famous works in this simple wooden cabin in the heart of the Dolomites: the 9th and 10th symphonies and the "Lied von der Erde".

“How can people forever think,” cried Mahler “that Nature lies on the surface! Of course it does, in its most superficial aspect. But those who, in the face of Nature, are not overwhelmed with awe at its infinite mystery, its divinity (we can only sense it, not comprehend or penetrate it) -- these people have not come close to it. […] And in every work of art, which should be a reflection of Nature, there must be a trace of this infinity.”

More informations about composing house

In his honour the town organises the annual Gustav Mahler Music Weeks, when the most famous and beautiful pieces by this famous composer are played.

Dobbiaco also has the Cultural Centre Euregio, where many other concerts and events take place in a historic setting.

The Hill of the Holy Sepulchre is the most beautiful viewpoint of Tiso. The Holy Grave Chapel was built as a baroque building at the end of the 17th century. In it, the suffering and death of Jesus Christ was worshiped. After the entry of Italy into the First World War in May 1915, fortifications were built here on the order of the Austrian Empire army. They should serve as a defense against a possible invasion of Italian troops in the Isarco Valley, if the Dolomite front should fall. The trenches and a bunker were built by Russian prisoners. However, the defenses were not used during the First World War. However, during the final months of World War II, the bunker was used by the village population as protection against air raids and bombing.

The wayside shrine of Welsberg dates back to around 1460 and was partially destroyed in 1882. Its four sides depict the Virgin Mary with Child, the Crucifixion, St. George, St. Augustine, and the saints Barbara, Margaret, and Catherine. The frescoes contain fragments of the original paintings attributed to Michael Pacher.

On the famous Merano High Mountain Trail, above Lagundo and in the immediate vicinity of the Leiteralm, the Trauttmansdorffer Thronsessel (throne chairs) invite you to enjoy a very special viewing experience. Those who settle here can enjoy a regal view over the entire Merano basin, Tyrol Castle, the Mutspitze, the Ifinger and the orchards and vineyards lying far below.

The throne chairs are a popular resting spot for hikers travelling along the Merano High Mountain Trail or taking the basket lift from Vellau to the Leiteralm. The combination of alpine heights, quiet mountain meadows and impressive views makes this place a perfect stopover to take a deep breath, take photos and marvel at the scenery. Many visitors take a break here, enjoy a panoramic picnic or let their gaze wander over the peaks of the Texel Group.

On clear days, the view extends deep into the Burggrafenamt district and far below Merano, an incomparable panorama that changes constantly with the light. The Trauttmansdorffer throne chairs at the Leiteralm combine mountain romance, far-reaching views and the special atmosphere of the Merano High Mountain Trail, a place that delights and inspires every hiker.

Around the village of Teis, from the bottom of the Villnöss valley to the Haube mountain at 1260 m above sea level, you can find a line of partly uncovered and partly hidden trenches, shelters and caverns. These are the remains of the extensive fortifications built as part of the “Barricade of Klausen/Chiusa” at the beginning of the First World War. Over the course of the last century, the trenches have been partly destroyed by human activities and partly reclaimed by nature. A group of locals has taken on the task of investigating the history of these fortifications more closely, preserving them and making them accessible to the public.

The Three Peaks are the landmark of the Dolomites and the nature highlight of the Holiday Region 3 Peaks in the Dolomites. The Three Peaks are situated in the Three Peaks nature park and in 2009 they were declared UNESCO World Heritage, as were all other peaks of the Dolomites.

The three battlement-like peaks consist mainly of dolomite:

• The Cima Grande measures a proud 2,999 metres
• The Cima Occidentale 2,973 metres
• And the Cima Piccola 2,857 metres

Among climbers the Three Peaks are one of the most popular destinations in the Alps, offering numerous climbing routes of various levels of difficulty.
Alpine climbers began to conquer these most important peaks in the Dolomites from 1860. Paul Grohmann from Vienna was the first climber of many of the summits of the eastern Dolomites. In 1869 Grohmann started from Landro and, together with Franz Innerkofler and Peter Salcher, conquered the Cima Grande di Lavaredo. With the construction of the Val Pusteria railway line in 1871 the number of alpine climbers increased steadily. 

The castle of Salorno stands imposingly on the rocks above the village and is the symbol of the village. Its position makes it one of the most impressive ruins in the Alps. It was built in the Middle Age and during the time it was constantly enlarged. It was in possession of different nobel families and since the 17th century it belongs to the descendants of Earl Zenobio-Albrizzi from Venice. Thank to their help the castle was restored. Since 2003 it can be visited during summer. Nowadays there take place many cultural events during the warm season.

There is a path called "Way of visions" which leads to the hill of the castle in 20 minutes (by foot).

At the Wuhnleger you’ll experience one of the most stunning views of the Rosengarten – intense, close, and unique in the entire area. The meadow lies at 1,402 m in the heart of the Sciliar–Rosengarten Nature Park and is home to a rich variety of wildlife: the pond and its surroundings host frogs, salamanders, dragonflies, and many other small creatures.
History has also left its mark here: the so-called “bomb craters” date back to World War II and stem from an emergency bomb drop by an aircraft around 1943.

A hidden natural spectacle reveals itself to hikers at the head of the Ridnauntal valley: the waterfalls of the Burkhard Gorge, which can be reached by following a panoramic trail. Starting from the mining museum in Maiern/Masseria, a marked hiking track leads through shady coniferous forests alongside the Fernerbach, a babbling glacial stream. The romantic, approximately one metre wide hiking trail winds through meadows and forests, past lush mossy expanses.

The old Lippa sawmill from the 19th century is located in Oberolang, in an easily accessible location in the immediate vicinity of the Val Pusteria cycle path and the Olang nature and culture trail. It is the last remaining Venetian sawmill, which was restored and put back into operation in 2011 after it was last used in 1958. It is a unique testimony to the history of the Val Pusteria timber industry.

Guided tours are only possible in SUMMER! For more information, please contact the Valdaora/Olang tourist office.

The former water station in Welsberg, with its octagonal tower, is a remarkable technical monument from the Austro-Hungarian period. Inaugurated in 1871, it served as a “fuel stop” for steam locomotives. Together with the depot and railway houses built in 1926, it forms a rare ensemble of historical railway engineering, protected as a heritage site since 2004.

Even today, the custom-manufactured railway built for the special environment of the Stelvio National Park transports the heavy marble blocks over four sections almost automatically down into the valley.

The marble-transporting train has been operated in the same original state since 1930 and carries the marble from the marble quarry (2,200 m above sea level) to the valley. With the Lasa sloped railway, it is possible to transport a 40-ton load at a speed of 1m/sec in 16 minutes in to the valley. To date, this type of transport is the most environmentally-friendly method of transportation of marble thusfar. During the marble hikes, interested guests can also visit the unique inclined railway.

The castle chapel of St. Stephen in Morter, or the sistine chapel of the Venosta Valley as it is also known, dates back to 1487, and certainly does rank among one of the most remarkable churches in the Southern Tyrol. Although the tiny church appears simple and unassuming from the outside, the magnificent frescoes in the interior are an absolute must for those who are interested in art and culture.

Open every Friday + Saturday from 14.30-17.30 (April-October).

Water as a metaphor for music: An installation by artist Ulrich Egger outside the Gustav Mahler music hall in the Cultural Center Gustav Mahler.

Further information on Dobbiaco’s Water treasures

Schwarzbach Waterfall – where nature meets art

Just above Luttach/Lutago, the Schwarzbach Waterfall plunges 15 meters through a narrow rock crevice into a stunning blue lagoon – a breathtaking natural spectacle!

Feel the cool mist on your skin, breathe in the refreshing air, and admire the colorful reflections dancing in the sunlight.

The path to the waterfall is lined with wooden sculptures created by international artists during the annual Ahrntal Sculpture Symposium. A unique fusion of nature and art – a feast for all the senses.

In 1992 in the church "Unsere liebe Frau auf dem Bichl" the in Laces standing stone (3.300-2.200 B.C.) was found during restoration work by the State Monument Authorities. The stele, which is made from the finest Vinschgau marble, formed the supporting surface of the altar table. The top and bottom parts as well parts of the left upper side of the 107 cm high, 77 cm wide and 12 cm thick stone are missing. It was probably originally located around where the current church stands on the hill and would thus have been visible from afar. As well as the iconic features common to all the male engraved stones from the Etsch valley group, such as scalloped belts, axes, daggers, clubs, bows, various decorative elements and fringed capes, elements are present that belong to the Lombardy group from Val Camonica and Valtellina, such as suns, deer and stylised male figure. Thus the in Laces standing stone is great proof of the ancient connection of the Vinschgau and the Etsch valley and the valleys of north-eastern Lombardy.

Historical restoration of the electric locomotive in Burgstall
A restoration of the historic electric locomotive in Burgstall has been done. The locomotive, once located in the ruined carriage house at the old bus station in Lana, has been placed near the train station Lana-Burgstall and the Adige bridge.

The restored iron truss bridge of the Water Protection Office together with the wicker dome and the locomotive give a round picture of South Tyrol's technical culture.

The beech tree at Tschaufen is one of the natural monuments of Mölten.

Natural monuments are special natural features of scientific, historical, or scenic value – such as ancient trees, distinctive rock formations, springs, or waterfalls.
They are protected to preserve their uniqueness and beauty and to raise awareness of the importance of safeguarding nature.

The artificial pond at Teis is ideal for relaxing. It is situated amidst meadows and a circular trail (suitable for baby carriages and wheelchairs) will take you around this pond. Benches and a fountain with drinking water invite to take a rest and boulders on the eastern side of the pond stand witness to the area's geological history.

Lookout platform on the western shore of the lake with an attractive resting place and a view of the animal and plant world of Lake Dobbiaco/Toblach and its zone of sedimentation. The viewing platform offers a great view of the mountains and the lake. Due to the numerous information boards, every visitor gets an optimal insight into the special features of Lake Dobbiaco.

Further information on Dobbiaco’s Water treasures

This dreamlike overlook is part of the famous "Sagenweg" - legend trail and is located at an altitude of 960m, leading towards the hamlet of Tabland/Tablà. A number of cupule engravings and crosses can be seen on this rock (different sized cup-shaped engravings, hand carved by man). North of here, adjacent to the Golderskofel, is a summit covered with mixed forest and brushwood, around which the attentive observer will be able to spot meager settlement walls. These are the faint remains of a small prehistoric settlement dating to the Neolithic period.

The Earth Pyramids of Mölten were shaped by the forces of water and time.
After the last Ice Age, clay-rich moraine material was deposited and gradually eroded by rain and surface water.
Where large stones protected the soil beneath them, striking column-like formations remained – the Earth Pyramids we see today.
They are constantly changing and stand as a fascinating example of nature’s creative power.

The castle chapel of Hocheppan with its roman frescos is one of the most important roman art monuments in South Tyrol. The centuries old frescos had been painted over and were only entirely laid open in 1926. Besides religious themes, the hunting scene on the exterior wall can be seen as one of the rarest profane depictions in Tyrol dating from this time period. The wall paintings originate from the first decade of the 13th century and show famous illustrations like the foolish virgins, the dumpling eater - the first proof for Tyrolean dumplings - and the picture of 'Maria Heimsuchung' which is well known far beyond the border of South Tyrol.

Note: Hocheppan Castle will be closed for winter break from November 11, 2025, until March 27, 2026, inclusive. From Saturday, March 28, 2026, we warmly welcome you back and look forward to a new season full of history, culture, and enjoyment at Hocheppan Castle!

The particular homey character of the feudal Taufers Castle astonishes around 70,000 visitors every year. 

As early as 1136 a noble-free family is named Taufers. In the 1220's the family built a new, generously arranged lord house, whose donjon with an attached living tower is constructed against the mountainside, as this was thought to be the possible attacking side. The powerful Taufers Castle is a dynastic seat of the Barons of Taufers with impressive and interesting fortified grounds.

Another great hall (later used as grain storage room) is located at a secured area in the western part of the castle. The naturally given construction space is delimited by a surrounding curtain wall, where there are different living complexes, attached to it.

In the 15th and 16th centuries the grounds were renovated into an expansive castle residence, most of them built in the early 16th century. The impressive weir system, although, dates back to the 15th century.

Taufers Castle has been in the possession of the Südtiroler Burgeninstitut since 1977. The entire furnished and well preserved castle numbers among the greatest and most beautiful castles of the entire Tyrolean region.

Prices:
Adults:
12€
15€ (29.03.2024 - 03.11.2024 including the exhibition)

Students/Pensioners (over 65 years old):
9€
12€/Person (29.03.2024 - 03.11.2024 including the exhibition)

Children (6-16 years old):
6€
7€ (29.03.2024 - 03.11.2024 including the exhibition)

Natural spectacles awaken the curiosity and fantasy of kids. In Lana and its surroundings you can not only find phenomenal mountains, but also waterfalls, that can easily be reached via short hiking paths. The whole family will enjoy a visit to the waterfall at the Brandiswaalweg.