This hike combines impressive natural experiences with spiritual depth. It begins at the well-known pilgrimage site Maria Weißenstein, where visitors can pause in the monastery and immerse themselves in the moving world of votive tablets. From there, the path leads through dense forests and over wide alpine pastures, past traditional huts, into the fascinating Bletterbach Gorge. The gorge, also known as the "Grand Canyon of South Tyrol," impresses with its geological diversity, bizarre rock formations, and deep insights into Earth's history. This route is ideal for all who, while hiking, seek not only nature but also silence, history, and inner contemplation – an unforgettable experience between heaven and earth.
The hike begins at the well-known pilgrimage site Maria Weißenstein (1,520 m), which is an excellent place for a short visit to the monastery. From the parking lot, follow the well-marked path [S] through light forest and over alpine meadows to Schmiederalm (1,737 m) – ideal for a first rest. Then continue along path [S] to Lahneralm (1,583 m), from where you can already catch a first glimpse of the impressive Bletterbach Gorge.
From here, the path leads down into the Bletterbach Gorge, where a fascinating geological landscape unfolds. Before descending into the gorge, please visit the visitor center in Aldein to collect a protective helmet. The entrance fee is €9. Children and young people up to 11 years old have free admission. After the descent, follow the marked path [3] through the Kösertal, a quiet and idyllic valley with great views of the Weißhorn.
The return route follows paths [E5], [3], and finally [15], which lead you back to the starting point at Maria Weißenstein. Overall, you can expect a varied circular route with wonderful natural and cultural experiences.
The starting point of the route is easily and conveniently accessible by public transport.
By public bus:
- 180 or 181 from Bolzano,
- 180 or 184 from Karersee, Karerpass, Welschnofen
- 184 from Birchabruck, Stenk, Eggen
- 184 from Petersberg, Deutschnofen
- 182 from Steinegg, Gummer
- 180 from Fassatal
Stop: Maria Weissenstein; online timetable search on South Tyrol Mobil: www.suedtirolmobil.info Meeting point: Maria Weissenstein: https://goo.gl/maps/BNSP7XGxA78ptriZ7
The starting point of the route is easily and conveniently accessible by public transport.
By public bus:
- 180 or 181 from Bolzano,
- 180 or 184 from Karersee, Karerpass, Welschnofen
- 184 from Birchabruck, Stenk, Eggen
- 184 from Petersberg, Deutschnofen
- 182 from Steinegg, Gummer
- 180 from Fassatal
Stop: Maria Weissenstein; online timetable search on South Tyrol Mobil: www.suedtirolmobil.info Meeting point: Maria Weissenstein: https://goo.gl/maps/BNSP7XGxA78ptriZ7
By car:
Destination: Maria Weissenstein
Parking: Maria Weissenstein car park
Meeting point: Maria Weissenstein: https://goo.gl/maps/BNSP7XGxA78ptriZ7