This hike offers a rich blend of nature, history, and city charm. Starting in the peaceful village of Deutschnofen, the trail leads through quiet forests and across panoramic ridges with stunning views of the Dolomites and the valley below. Along the way, scenic spots like Rotenstein and Rotwand provide unforgettable photo opportunities and moments to pause.
The adventure continues in Kohlern, a small mountain village above Bolzano, where a special highlight awaits: the world’s oldest aerial cable car. In just a few minutes, it gently glides down to the South Tyrolean capital, offering sweeping views and a historic ride. Once in Bolzano, you can enjoy a leisurely stroll through the old town, with its arcades, cafés, and shops. The return journey is easy and comfortable by public bus. A perfect tour for those who seek nature, cultural experiences, and a touch of discovery in one memorable day.
The hike starts in the village center of Deutschnofen (1,357 m). From the church square, follow trail [E5] southward through shady forests and across scenic mid-mountain ridges with stunning views of the Eggental valley and South Tyrol’s lowlands.
After about one hour, you’ll reach the Rotenstein viewpoint (approx. 1,440 m), soon followed by Rotwand, another ideal spot for a scenic break.
The trail then descends gently through mixed forest until you arrive in Kohlern (1,130 m), a peaceful mountain hamlet above Bolzano. From here, you can take the world’s oldest cable car (built in 1908) down to Bolzano city center (approx. 260 m) in just a few minutes.
Once in Bolzano, enjoy a stroll through the arcades, visit Walther Square, or relax at a café. Return to Deutschnofen by regular public bus (SAD).
Getting to the starting point of the tour by public transport is easy and convenient.
By public bus line:
- 181 from Bozen | Bolzano
- 180 or 184 from Karersee | Lago di Carezza, Karerpass | Passo Costalunga, Welschnofen | Nova Levante
- 184 or 181 from Birchabruck | Ponte Nova
- 184 from Stenk, Eggen | Ega, Obereggen
- 184 or 181 from Weissenstein | Pietralba, Petersberg | Monte San Pietro, Deutschnofen | Nova Ponente
- 182 from Steinegg | Collepietra, Gummer | San Valentino
- 180 from Val di Fassa
Bus stop: Deutschnofen | Nova Ponente Church; online timetable search at www.suedtirolmobil.info/en/
Meeting point: Parking lot : https://goo.gl/maps/UwWfytu3jmCJTRhM6
Getting to the starting point of the tour by public transport is easy and convenient.
By public bus line:
- 181 from Bozen | Bolzano
- 180 or 184 from Karersee | Lago di Carezza, Karerpass | Passo Costalunga, Welschnofen | Nova Levante
- 184 or 181 from Birchabruck | Ponte Nova
- 184 from Stenk, Eggen | Ega, Obereggen
- 184 or 181 from Weissenstein | Pietralba, Petersberg | Monte San Pietro, Deutschnofen | Nova Ponente
- 182 from Steinegg | Collepietra, Gummer | San Valentino
- 180 from Val di Fassa
Bus stop: Deutschnofen | Nova Ponente Church; online timetable search at www.suedtirolmobil.info/en/
Meeting point: Parking lot : https://goo.gl/maps/UwWfytu3jmCJTRhM6
By car:
Destination: Deutschnofen | Nova Ponente
Parking: parking lot Gibitz
Meeting point: Parking lot Gibitz square Deutschnofen | Nova Ponente: https://goo.gl/maps/UwWfytu3jmCJTRhM6
Parking: parking lot Gibitz
Meeting point: Parking lot Gibitz square Deutschnofen | Nova Ponente: https://goo.gl/maps/UwWfytu3jmCJTRhM6
