The Ice Holes in Appiano (Eppan)

The Ice Holes are a true natural spectacle, especially in summer — the perfect place to escape the heat. We like to think of them as a natural air conditioner: a refreshing break from hot temperatures, even if just for a few hours.
Due to a unique combination of geological and climatic conditions, temperatures here remain between 0°C and 9°C all year round. Through an underground air circulation system, cold air from higher elevations sinks into a rocky debris field, becomes “trapped” there, and escapes again at specific points. What’s particularly fascinating is that these unusually low temperatures allow plant species to thrive that would normally only grow in alpine regions.

The Ice Holes are easily reached via a short and easy hike: After parking at the Obere Gand car park in Appiano, follow trail no. 7A through the forest. You’ll pass a cat enclosure on the right, then take a left at the fork. Continue past a small bee house, then take another left a few meters later. From there, a forest path leads gently uphill — just follow the signs. Before long, you’ll feel the cool air and reach the Ice Holes.

You return the same way you came. There is also an option for a circular route, but it partially runs along the busy Mendel Road, so I wouldn’t recommend it if you’re hiking with children.