Step by step by step. Walking without any great effort, but in a constant manner. Your own breathing starts to match the rhythm of your steps and movements, landscapes, colours merge together to become sensations. Even the path seems to make its way in fluid fashion. Past old farmsteads, onwards to more open country, where meadows and sparse woodland give way to views of the mountains. Ancient tree giants in their autumn coats line the path: chestnut trees, lots of chestnut trees. At some point old wooden fences featuring hand-carved and weather-beaten slats with bendy twigs woven through them mark the borders of pastures and meadows. Tradition – wonderfully walkable.

Chestnuts with all the senses

The Chestnut Trail, affectionately known as the 'Keschtnweg' amongst South Tyroleans and South Tyrol experts, joins the sunny slopes between Bozen and Brixen with 60 kilometres of undulating path. There are places to stop for refreshments all along the route, drawing in passers-by with warm 'Stuben' and steaming 'Knödel' dumplings. Hikers may enjoy two equally enticing prospects: that of the bright and colourful mountains, and that of an evening's hearty 'törggelen'.

248, 249, 250 … you can count the trees, if you like! Or the prickly sweet chestnut cases that get shaken off in the first autumn rains by the old giants, which may live for up to a thousand years. Farming families collect the 'Keschtn', or chestnuts, in the chestnut groves, which are then roasted in the 'Buschenschänken', or rustic inns, and served with 'Siaßn' – fermenting grape juice.

Long distance tours tailor-made

The Schlern, Rosengarten and Latemar, Plattkofel, Langkofel and Geißler, … if you like, you can call the mountains by name! The Chestnut Trail is a high path running along the Eisack river valley which focuses on kilometres rather than elevation gain. This makes it ideal for pleasant, extended walks affording impressive all-round views of the surrounding peaks and treetops. Collecting autumnal decorations, enjoying the clear views, steadily placing one foot in front of the other. Hikers can choose whether they want to do the walk in 4 or 6 stages.

Of course, the Chestnut Trail has its appeal all year round. Yet, if we are to be totally honest, the prospect of stopping off at a warm 'Stube' and a traditional inn is more enticing when prickly chestnut cases are lying on the ground in October and the sun's golden rays are still strong, or in November, when mist enshrouds the treetops. We have the best accommodation for you in the Eisack valley! Plan your route (here) and your accommodation in the Eisack valley.