The Zans Nature Trail is located at the head of the Villnöß Valley, one of the most beautiful valleys in the Dolomites, at the foot of the world-famous Geislerspitzen peaks. This circular high-altitude trail, the first of its kind in the province to be wheelchair-accessible, was created by the Forestry and State Property Office of the Autonomous Province of Bolzano. Its primary aim is to enable people with disabilities, older people and families with young children to experience the unique natural and cultural landscape of the Puez-Geisler Nature Park (a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site).

Accessibility

From Bolzano, take the A22 Brenner motorway to Klausen. Continuing towards Brixen, turn right into the Villnöß Valley after about 2 km. Following the well-maintained regional road, you will eventually reach St. Magdalena and continue along the mountain road to the pay-and-display car park at Zans (1,680 m).

Description

Starting from the turning area at the Zans Information Point (1,680 m), we follow the tarmac road towards the Sass Rigais mountain inn. From a second parking area along the road, the path leads with a moderate gradient of 12–14% to the actual starting point of the nature trail. The circular trail, approximately 3 km long, begins with a gentle incline on a gravel surface. Thanks to regular maintenance, the surface is very even. We cross the flowering Pius meadows at the foot of the imposing Geislerspitzen and come across the first two of a total of 14 stations, some of which are even equipped with Braille and provide information on the formation and natural features of this area. The names of the stations give a hint of what there is to discover: “Mountains you can touch” or “Nature’s Concert Hall” are just two examples. In addition, you’ll find information about animals and plants, as well as how humans have contributed to the formation of the landscape at the head of the Villnöß valley.

After a few metres, we turn left behind a wooden fence and follow the signs bearing the wheelchair symbol. From here, the well-marked footpath continues with a steady 10% gradient: after each incline, there are inviting rest areas with tables and benches. Eventually, we reach a wooden bridge. From here, the path leads through a shady wood down to a game reserve where you can spot roe deer, red deer and fallow deer. There is also an old lime kiln here. A short while later, after a brief descent, we reach the road again, which takes us back to our starting point at the Zans car park.