Lana on the Adige: Trails, Art and Culture

In Lana on the Adige, excursions range from a stroll through vineyards and apple orchards to church tours and ice skating in winter. When planning, it helps to understand how the routes differ: the Brandis Waalweg gives its length and approximate walking time, while the Gaul Gorge is known for its suspension bridges, a waterfall and the trail leading farther into the gorge. Art and architectural history complement the outdoor experiences.

Exploring the Landscape on Foot

The Brandis Waalweg connects Lana and Niederlana on an easy walk of about 2.5 kilometres. The route climbs just 30 metres and takes approximately 50 minutes. It passes through chestnut groves, vineyards and apple orchards, offering views of Lana and the surrounding valley landscape. At the end of the trail is the Brandis Waterfall. The route is suitable for families with strollers.

The route measurements given are approximate: actual measurements may vary slightly depending on trail conditions. The estimated duration of around 50 minutes nevertheless provides a useful guide when planning how much time to allow for the walk. The landscape and destination are part of the same route—from the trail through the groves and gardens to the waterfall at the end.

The Gaul Gorge offers a different focus. It is just a few minutes’ walk from the centre of Lana, at the foot of the castle hill of Braunsberg Castle. From the Gaulwiese, a well-secured path crosses suspension bridges, passes a waterfall and continues farther into the gorge. For the Brandis Waalweg, you can factor the approximate total duration into your plans; in the Gaul Gorge, the route and landscape features are your guide.

Art and Architectural History

On the Lana Sculpture Walk Trail, hikers and art enthusiasts can experience how artists from around the world have interpreted the landscape along the route. The trail combines walking with a look at different artistic interpretations of the surroundings, focusing on how artists have represented the landscape.

The churches also differ in how they can be visited. The Parish Church of the Assumption of Mary can be visited on guided tours; group tours can be booked on request. Visiting hours vary by season. As a significant late Gothic religious building in South Tyrol, the church is also an example of the region’s architectural history.

The Schnatterpeck Altarpiece is over 14 metres high, comprises 33 figures and is considered the largest winged altarpiece in the Alps. These measurements convey the artwork’s remarkable scale: its height and number of figures can be grasped at a glance, while its significance also lies in its status as the largest winged altarpiece in the Alps.

St. Margaret’s Church in Niederlana can be visited on guided tours. Visiting hours may vary depending on the season and organisational arrangements, so check the visiting arrangements before travelling. Braunsberg Castle has a clear access status: it was built in the early 13th century, is privately owned and is not open to visitors. Its architectural history can therefore be considered separately from an on-site visit.

Seasonal Experiences and Special Access Conditions

During the winter months, from late October to early March, the Gaul Ice Rink offers skating on artificial ice. Access is largely barrier-free. As the rink operates seasonally, it is advisable to check the current seasonal schedule before your visit.

St. Vigilius Church on the Vigiljoch has different access conditions: it can only be reached on foot via hiking trails, as the entire Vigiljoch area is car-free. This is important when choosing an excursion, because reaching the church is part of the planning. Lana thus offers a wide range of options: a walk with an estimated duration, a trail through a gorge, guided church visits and ice skating in winter.

Discover more destinations: Unsere Liebe Frau Im Walde-St. Felix, Hafling, Ulten, Meran, Algund, Naturns, Sankt Martin In Passeier, Riffian

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