The spectacular Gilfenklamm Gorge near Vipiteno

Here, surrounded by rushing water and rugged cliffs, you can feel the raw power of nature – a rare experience even in South Tyrol. Our children wandered wide-eyed across bridges and steps, utterly fascinated. One of them said: “Mommy, nature is so big here, it makes you feel really small.”

And they were right. The Gilfenklamm Gorge in Stange is a natural spectacle that powerfully showcases the beauty and force of the Alpine landscape. It is, in fact, the only accessible gorge in Europe carved through white marble. Look closely – in many places, the path is hewn directly into the rock, revealing the shimmering white stone beneath your feet.

Key Facts at a Glance:

• Just minutes from the Vipiteno motorway exit – perfect even for a stopover
• Suitable for surefooted children (well-secured, but some slippery sections)
• Not stroller-accessible
• Whiny kids only during the first 20 minutes through the forest – then the natural cinema begins. Ours were speechless (a rare event)!
• Open: May–November, 09:00–17:00 (until 18:00 in July/August)
• Admission: Adults €8, children from 6 years €5, under 6 free (as of 2025)

Directions:
From the parking lot, follow the signs. Pay at the small wooden ticket hut, then hike about 20 minutes through the forest to reach the gorge entrance. Getting lost is impossible – there’s only one path. 🙂

There are 3 options for the return:

• The same way back (1h)
• Via Reifenegg Castle ruins (1h 10 min)
• Via Pardaun (50 min)

Tips:

• The Gilfenklamm is very popular on weekends. If possible, plan your visit for a weekday or arrive early.
• For food, head to Gasthof Jaufensteg (at the gorge’s end) or stop in Vipiteno. From fast food at Imbiss Hias to Slow Food at Sprechenstein Castle (highly recommended), there’s something for everyone.
• After the busy gorge, we needed a little peace and headed to “Mareiter Beach” – a natural stream with small coves perfect for kids to play and build dams.
• If you have some extra time, we also recommend this playground in Vipiteno: it features a large sandbox under a sunshade, pulleys, climbing structures, swings, and much more.