Bletterbach Canyon: Time in a fossil

Many millions of years ago, in Aldino/Aldein, situated south-east of Bolzano/Bozen, the little Bletterbach (creek) developed, at a length of eight kilometres and more than 400 metres deep into the soil.

This created an imposing canyon, which is unique in Europe. In approximately three hours walking time, you can get an impressive insight into the past. Descending into the canyon, which takes about half an hour, you will come across 250 million years of the earth's history – the creek lies in front of you like an open book.

Visitor Centre Geoparc

The Visitor Centre below the Alpine hut Lahner shows the processes that led to the creation of the rocks in the Bletterbach gorge, and, like the Geo Museum in Radein, contains fossil finds from the gorge, such as prehistoric reptile tracks, fossilised fish, mussels and plants. The visitor learns about and experiences interesting and significant aspects of life in this area millions of years ago.

Opening times: 1st May to 4th November, daily from 9.30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

» Geoparc Bletterbach  

Be tempted

To visit the Bletterbach gorge, alpine huts, farmhouses and mills or the legendary world of Aldein. And for the kids, there is 'Bletterbach for Kids'. Beside some guided hiking trips, there is also the museum card Aldein-Radein and interesting family tickets!

» Guided tours    

Forest educational path

The path begins by the large new car park below the Alpine hut Lahner, and takes a short circular route to the Alpine hut Lahner and back to the car park. It is ideal for children and older people, but also for all interested hikers. The Forest Educational Path is a wide gravel path which is accessible to wheel chairs and children’s pushchairs.