Meren en watervallen in Zuid-Tirol

A nature play in white marble! The Gilfenklamm is a gorge in pure white marble and stretches from the village Stange/Stanghe into the Ratschingstal/Val Racines to the hamlet of Jaufensteg/Ponte Giovo. Wooden bridges and runways lead through the canyon and give a spectacular sight to the waterfalls. The primordial power of the water is tangible with all senses. The gorge is protected as a natural monument and is known as one of the most beautiful natural attractions in the Alpine region.

The runways through the gorge were built in 1896 and just after a few years the unfolded magic attracted numerous visitors. Beetween the great world wars the bridges were left to decay, but were restored in the early 1960s, and have since become a must see of the Sterzing-Ratschings area. The hike through the gorge lasts nearly one hour (1,5 hours with return) and is worthwhile for nature lovers, families and seniors.

The Gilfenklamm gorge is situated in the Eisacktal/Alta Val d’Isarco valley, close to Ratschings/Racines and the city of Sterzing/Vipiteno. On an established trail you can walk across this charming and breathtaking canyon with its waterfalls cascading into the depth. About 100 years ago the gorge was named after the Austrian emperor Franz Josef, but its name changed so that it is now known as the “Cascate di Stanghe” gorge. During its course, the initially small Rio di Ratschings river turns into a roaring river which has been carving its way through the marble walls for centuries. Experience the forces of nature and the uniqueness of this fabulous natural monument.

No reservation is necessary. However, it is recommended to avoid the main visiting hours (between 10.00 am and 12.30pm).

Following extensive restoration work, Rabland Lake is now shining in new splendor – and once again open to visitors!

Just a short walk from Rabland train station and directly on the popular Via Claudia Augusta cycle path, this small lake once again invites you to pause, breathe, and enjoy the peace of nature.

In recent months, this idyllic spot was closed to the public: an invasive aquatic plant – Elodea nuttallii, commonly known as Nuttall's waterweed and native to North America – had spread rapidly, disrupting the lake’s delicate ecological balance. The result was cloudy water and a dramatic decline in biodiversity.

To preserve this natural gem, local authorities, the municipality of Partschins and the local fishing club joined forces for a comprehensive restoration project: the water level was lowered, the plants were removed, and the lakebed was filled with clean material. A careful ecological restoration followed.

Today, Rabland Lake is back at its best: clear, inviting, and close to nature. Fed by the Ziel stream and surrounded by lush banks, it provides a habitat for numerous native species – including mallards, coots, grey herons, dippers, wagtails, frogs, fish, and dragonflies such as the green hawker and the emperor dragonfly.

A bench overlooking the water offers the perfect spot for a rest – whether you’re cycling past, taking a stroll, or simply enjoying a moment of peace. Those who observe with open eyes and ears will find a quiet piece of unspoiled nature here.

Welcome back to Rabland Lake – the peaceful heart between cycle path, train station and nature!

We´ve a small bathing sea, the Göllersea, laying in the middle of a wood like in a fairytale. Nearby you find a few panorama points, such as Rotwand and Burgstallegg, which give you a free view over the flat "Unterland” and over the rest of South Tirol. Starting from the fire department Aldein You reach the sea on way nr. 17b after a short hike of 30 min. A good combination of bathing and walking.

Every vacationer in South Tyrol has to visit Lake Carezza, the most gorgeous Alpine mountain lake!
This small mountain lake is well-known for its soft, deep green waters and the exquisite view of the Rosengarten and Latemar mountain ranges.

The lake is at its most gorgeous in the evening or early morning, when the Rosengarten-Latemar mountain ranges and the green of the Karerwald forest are reflected in its crystal clear water. This is a natural spectacle you won't want to miss!

Many South Tyrolean legends are based around the lake, such as that of the water nymph, and many writers and painters have chosen the motif for their paintings and stories.

Situated at 1,520 metres above sea level, Lake Carezza is 300 m long and 140 m wide in the Val d'Ega municipality of Nova Levante and is a protected natural monument. It is fed by underground springs from the Latemar mountain range, which is why both its size and depth are highly dependent on season and weather conditions - the greatest depth of Lake Carezza has been recorded at 22 m.

As Lake Carezza is a protected area, it is forbidden to cross the protective boundaries around the lake. Likewise, bathing and swimming in it is also strictly prohibited.  

Lake Carezza is accessible without barriers. At the car park of the lake there are a total of 4 parking spaces reserved for people with disabilities. At the lake there is a visitor centre with barrier-free toilets and a barrier-free passage to the lake. The viewing platform and the circular walk around the lake are also barrier-free. 

There are refreshment facilities at the visitor centre, which include two bistros. Other places to stop are the restaurants and huts in the area.

Lake Carezza is accessible around the clock all year round. The visitor centre with its subway for pedestrians and the toilets are open daily from 9 am - 6 pm.

For more info on Lake Carezza, click here: eggental.com/lakecarezza

Over time, the stream Gaiderbach has cut deeply into the porphyry rock and formed a narrow, distinctive gorge with waterfalls. The gorge presents itself simply fascinating and breathtaking: the mossy rock faces, the power of the water, the species-rich vegetation (including ferns and various species of orchids) form an undisturbed interplay of nature.

A lovely winding mountain road leads you quickly up from Kurtatsch, through woods, meadows, vineyards and fruit orchards to the high plateau of Unterfennberg. The jewel of this plateau is without question little Lake Fennberg, perfect for a summer swim. Although the lake is a biotope with unusual flora and fauna (more than 35 types of orchids, freshwater crayfish and other types of plants and animals),  a small wooden pier with a ladder leads down to swim in the silky moor water while enjoying the views of the tiny St. Leonard's church and the surrounding mountain peaks. Water lilies and dragonflies build a frame for the lake, which is a popular spot for ice-skating during the cold winter months. The plateau offers many walking paths as well as the possibility of travelling up by car, hiking path or via ferrata. The plateau is also an excellent destination for bikers, be it mountain bikers, motor bikers or racing bikers.

Position:
Imbedded between forest and hills scenery on 514 meters above sea level, small Montiggl Lake is located. A lot of different walking paths bring you to the lake. With the car you can park at the big Montiggl Lake or at the supercenter Rungg.

Topography:
The small Montiggl Lake has a shoreline of 890 meters and is only about 5 hectares big. Therefore it is a lot smaller then its “bigger brother”, but a lot deeper with a maximum depth of almost 15 meters.

Utilization:
According to analyses the lake has very good data regarding the water quality and is therefore one of South Tyroles most popular swimming lake. It is not directly accessible by car, therefore it's more known for its relaxation and for enjoying the nature. One part of the lake has a grassed area and a small snack bar. Around small Montiggl Lake there is a walking path, along which you can find nice and cosy spots to relax or swim.

To avoid car park problems, there is a public bus to Montiggl and back in the summertime.

The Kratzberger See Lake (2,116 m) is situated on the eastern side of the western ridge of the Sarentino Alps, along the E5 European long-distance footpath.

The clear mountain lake is known for its luminous shore and for being one of what are called brüllenden Seen or ‘roaring lakes’. According to lore, the brüllenden Seen emit audible sounds when inclement weather is looming. Above and beyond mythology, though, the lake is one of the most popular hiking destinations at Merano 2000.

It's accessible from the Missenstein Joch. From there, you can reach the lake along a somewhat narrow section of the European long distance footpath.

Located at the foot of King Ortles, the church of the three Holy Wells in Trafoi tells a special story: In the 13th century, the shepherd Moritz saw three little streams break from the rocks in the spot where the chapel now stands. Each of the streams carried a cross. The shepherd was able to grab two of them, but the third was washed away. When the little church was erected in the 15th century, the site became a place of pilgrimage and the healing powers of the holy wells are still spoken of today.

An impressive drama of nature is offered by the three Rio di Riva waterfalls which can be reached starting out from the hamlet of Bad Winkel. The Rio di Riva waterfalls are located in the Vedrette di Ries-Aurina Nature Park and offer an impressive view of nature above all else in the summer. Fed by melted snow, the Rio di Riva plunges in three cascades over the rock cliffs into the depths, making it possible for visitors to experience the power of water with all of their senses. 

The St. Francis'Path with the 10 meditational spots lines the path of the Reinbach waterfalls up to the Franziskus and Klara chapel.

Walking time from the starting point "car park Cantuccio/Winkel; Wasserfallbar":

- until the 1st waterfall approx. 20 minutes - 40 m altitude difference -
        up to the 1st waterfall suitable for baby stroller

- o until the 2nd waterfall approx. 40 minutes - 140 m altitude difference

- o until the 3st waterfall approx. 55 minutes - 170 m altitude difference -
        from here you can return with the Fly-Line possible www.fly-line-wasserfall.eu

- o until the Franziskus and Klara chapel approx. 75 minutes - 300 m altitude difference

Way back:

For the way back you can use the same trail or from Gasthof Tobelhof (near 3rd waterfall) on the hiking trail 2A in the direction of Sand in Taufers back to the starting 

Position:
The big Montiggl Lake is located in the middle of the nature reserve Montiggl with its stunning mixed forest in the community of Eppan on 492 meters above sea level. It can be reached by car or by the numerous walking paths nearby.

Topography:
The big Montiggl Lake has a shoreline of 2 kilometres and its surface is around 18 hectares wide. At its deepest spot it has a depth of 11.5 meters. In the north-east it is surrounded by rock, whereat the opposite site it changes to a swamp.

Utilization:
According to analyses the lake has very good data regarding the water quality and is therefore one of South Tyroles most popular swimming lake. In the west of the lake there are hotels, restaurants and a swimming pool with a pier located.

Fishing becomes a precious experience for families at the idyllically located fish pond in Antholz Niedertal. No fishing certification is required

The fishing equipment can be rented directly at the fish pond itself. A playground and a bar with terrace can be found there as well.

The natural bathing pond in Lüsen is a small, idyllic mountain lake right in the midst of South Tyrol. Returning from a great hiking trip with super panoramic views or a nature park excursion, a visit to the bathing pond will bring you much sought after refreshment. Children can whiz down the slide while parents dive deep into the fresh spring water from the Lüsen Alm, when nearby farmers work on the fields and cows grass on the meadows. Dogs are not allowed.

At the far end of the valley, just before reaching Mühlwald/Selva dei Molino, is the beautiful Mühlwald lake, a small dam lake at around 1,220 m above sea level that can be easily circumnavigated in half an hour on a barrier-free circular trail. Numerous rest areas with shady seating invite you to linger along the way.

The idyllic Lech Sant (Ladin for ‘Holy Lake’) is the largest mountain lake on the Mastlé Alm. The meadow at the edge of the lake with a magnificent view on the Odle peaks invites you to linger and relax.

The Titschenbach stream ends in a 68 high thunderous waterfall, which makes the village so unique. This is where the prehistoric inhabitants used to fetch water from the stream and channel it into canals for a variety of everyday uses. This place, the oldest in the history of the village, was mentioned in documents as "Tütsche" (Tyrolean Urbar from 1288). This name could have been derived in the course of a millennium from the Latin term "ductia", which, like the ancient "sala", referred to a water pipe. Salurn, the "village on the Tütsche", was created thanks to such watercourses. This dependence is symbolized, among other things, in the coat of  arms and name of one of the oldest families of the village, the family "An der Lahn". It is interesting to note that until the end of the 15th century, the stream crossed the Gries district in the south of the village and was only later diverted to the north on the mountain side of the settlement. The wooden bridge was first built around 1500.

The Huber Weiher is an artificial pond that was created for irrigation and goat breeding. The pond is used for private fishing, but guests can also purchase a day ticket here to catch their own fish.

You can fish from April to October.

The day ticket (price €25.00) can be purchased at the Völser Weiher car park, Restaurant Pizzeria Alpin Roof or ar the Restaurant Schwimmhütt; a fishing licence is not required for the Huber Weiher.

Movement of sheep
Every summer thousands of sheep cross the border

The transhumance in Schnalstal Valley, which is still practiced and deeply rooted in local tradition, dates back 600 years. This ancient tradition in Schnalstal Valley is now part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage. The annual migration in Schnalstal Valley is the only cross-border and trans-glacial transhumance in existence.
Every June, the shepherds lead flocks of 3,000 – 4,000 sheep on a mass migration from Vernago/Vernagt and Maso Corto/Kurzras across two mountain passes to the fertile pastures of Vent in neighboring Austria. The transhumance in the Schnalstal Valley covers more than 40 km, across gullies and snow-covered fields.

In mid-September, the sheep and shepherds with the help of sheep dogs guide the flocks back to the Schnalstal Valley on the much safer return trip. At the end of the transhumance, the successful termination of the migration is celebrated.

The Lago Gioveretto is an artificial lake in the Ortler Alps in South Tyrol. The reservoir has an area of 70ha, situated at an altitude of 1850m in Val Martello and is crossed by the river Plima. The storage capacity is 19.6million cubic meters. The reservoir is situated in the Stelvio National Park and is used for generation of energy. The associated hydroelectric power station is located in Lasa.

From June to September you are allowed to fish with a state licence. You can buy the ticket at the keeper of the dam.

The Lake Kaltern The Mediterranean landscape around Lake Kalterer See leads many to the correct assumption that this lake really is the warmest lake in the Alps! There are four public beaches that offer direct access to the lake, known for its especially inviting water quality and colorful splendor! Sometimes it's a tint of deep blue, other times it mirrors the green of the surrounding landscape! And Lake Kalterer See is so versatile: row boats, sailboats, pedal boats and surf boards glide across the water. Yet it's so incredibly tranquil here. For sure you'll hear the sound of children's laughter; after all, this is their little corner of paradise. Quite simply, it's beautiful in the lake, on the lake and all around the lake.

In winter, when Lake Haider is frozen, its surface is used for ice sailing. With special boats mounted on runners, sailors make use of the wind to glide across the ice, often reaching considerable speeds.

The lake is located in St. Valentin auf der Haide, surrounded by the alpine landscape with the Ortler mountain in the background. Ice sailing is only possible when the ice is thick enough and officially released, and is mainly practiced by experienced sailors

From July to October there is on the biggest lake in South Tyrol, the lago Resia, "Ship Ahoy" with the "MS Hubertus"
While the ship that passeth away, idyllically situated on the turquoise blue lago Resia, passengers have views of the impressive mountain panorama.
Captain Winkler informed about the natural beauty around the 6 km long reservoir and are legends and stories about the sunken villages for the best.

Along the slope from the Lagazuoi to the Capanna Alpina, you ski past a very particular natural phenomenon.
In winter, when everything freezes, wonderful ice-waterfalls form on this mountain. They are particular, because in summer water flows rarely at this point.
The waterfalls are very interesting for climbers.

The sulphur baths at Bad Bergfall The newly reviving bathing culture in South Tyrol is only one of the reasons why we have reconstructed Bad Bergfall. Here you can feel the element of water with all your five senses: Sulphur baths, Fountain of youth baths, Drinking cures, Inhalation fountain, Relaxation room, Relaxation massages, Energetic massages e Fitness programme The spacious pool facility with adjacent guesthouse provides the ideal retreat for people who want to spend recreational holidays to improve their health. The Pörnbacher family meets this increasing demand with professional bathing offers.

Rötbach Waterfall – Feel the power of nature in Kasern/Casere

Marvel at the rushing waters of the Rötbach Waterfall, located above Kasern/Casere on Knappenberg Prettau/Predoi, near the historic tunnels of the former copper mine. The “breathing platform” offers a stunning panoramic view and a revitalizing microclimate.

Feel the cooling mist on your skin, breathe in the pure mountain air, and be mesmerized by the colorful reflections of sunlight. A place to pause, reflect, and recharge amidst the beauty of nature.

At the end of the parking lot, pass the game reserve. Trail. n° 9 continues through the forest, along the ditch until it turns left crossing a small bridge over the waters of the glacier. The winding path continues up to three cascades, made up of water from the glacier, then descending to the flat section of the woodlands and back again to the starting point.

Idyllic hamlet on the lake

On the east bank of the turquoise reservoir, at the back of the Schnalstal Valley, are a handful of houses and a church which form the hamlet of Vernago/Vernagt.

The original village was destroyed to make way for the construction of the reservoir in the 1950s. Even today, the tower of the former chapel protrudes from the lake in early spring.

In the idyllic village of Vernago/Vernagt, numerous hiking paths begin, leading through light forests up to the glacier, and passing centuries-old farms. An archaeological hiking trail runs along ancient places of worship to Oetzi’s place of discovery.

The Moassl Waterfall is a natural recreational area in the rear Pfitschvalley near Sterzing / Vipiteno. The refreshing air and the calmness at the end of the Pfitsch valley is a famous rest zone around the Moassl waterfall, a special place of energy amidst a beautiful natural setting. 

The gentle outlet of the mountain stream offers a natural Kneipp facility: after a long hike, take off your shoes and dip your feet in the invigorating cold water of the stream before warming your feet in the lush green grass. Benches invite you to linger and the forest landscape offers ideal opportunities for adventurous games. Recharge your batteries! 

A circuit trail near the Obere Stilfser Alm Alpine refuge leads to the Goldseen Lakes above Stilfs/Stelvio (not to be confused with the Goldsee Lake on the Stelvio Pass). In the high mountain grasslands around these small Alpine lakes, one enjoys an unobstructed view of the Ortler area.

The Texelgruppe Nature Park in Schnalstal ValleyThe largest nature reserve in South TyrolThe Texelgruppe Nature Park is set in an area of about 30,000 hectares, extending between Schnalstal Valley in the west and Passeiertal Valley to the east, and from the Etschtal Valley in the south to the Oetztal Alps in the north.
The Nature Park comprises the extensive high mountain region of the entire Texelgruppe mountain range.

The Texelgruppe Nature Park around the Schnalstal Valley is a popular destination for hiking, with dry semi-forested slopes, clear mountain lakes above the timber line and dense forests below. The Val di Fosse/Pfossental side valley occupies the heart of the nature reserve, a pristine area with varied wildlife. During special wildlife hikes in the Pfossental Valley, hikers may spot chamois’ and ibexes, marmots, and eagles. The Pfossental is home to probably more chamois and ibexes than people living in the Schnalstal Valley.

Nature Walk "Life on the Mountain Farms of the Val di Fosse"
A delightful, well-marked, informative walk starting at the Maso Vorderkaser and leading from one mountain farmstead to the next - a chance to learn a little more about the typical flora, fauna and geological aspects of the surrounding countryside and high Alpine pastures with special attention given to local bee-keepers and their work.