Discover themed gardens, artist pavilions, viewpoints and wildlife stations set around a natural amphitheatre in the grounds of a medieval castle.
Enjoy a fun day out for all ages while immersing yourself in art and nature at Trauttmansdorff Castle Gardens (Giardini di Castel Trauttmansdorff). From botanical displays and art expositions to animal pens, an interactive museum and mountain lookouts, there are hundreds of things to see and explore at Trauttmansdorff Castle Gardens. The attractions are spread across 30 acres (12 hectares) of landscape gardens that surround Trauttmansdorff Castle.
Cobblestone pathways wind around the gardens and signposts help guide you to the different areas. Spot a 700-year-old olive tree, marvel at views of the South Tyrol alps and delight in the Mediterranean ambiance of the Sun Gardens. In the Forests of the World, trees from all corners of the globe, tea plantations, streams and waterfalls create a cool refuge from the summer sunshine. See replicas of typical landscapes from South Tyrol and admire examples of Italian Renaissance and English perennial gardens.
Many species of wildlife live in the gardens, among them macaws, peacocks and rabbits. Get up close with bullfrogs and spiders in the terrarium and browse collections of exotic flowers in the glasshouse. Botanical-themed art exhibitions highlight the connection between art and the natural world. Study the geological rock mosaics, which replicate the geology of northern Italy, and try to identify various wood types.
Don’t miss the uninterrupted views of the Adige Valley from Mateo Thun’scher Gucker, a suspended platform designed in the shape of binoculars. Learn about the history of Alpine tourism in South Tyrol via the hands-on exhibits at the Touriseum. When you need a break, grab a seat at the rooftop restaurant or the café, which overlooks a water lily pond.
Sissi’s Walk, a 1.9-mile (3 kilometer) trail once walked by Empress Elisabeth of Austria, connects the Castle Gardens with Merano Historic Center. There’s a metered car park with footbridge access to the main entrance.
Trauttmansdorff Castle Gardens is open from April to mid-November and there’s an admission fee. Guided tours are available for a fee. Visit the gardens’ official website for a list of special events such as the World Music Festival open-air concerts.
