The Gitschberg Sun Park in Maranza (Meransen) near Rio di Pusteria

The Gitschberg Sun Park in Maranza above Rio di Pusteria is a true paradise for families. Surrounded by the stunning mountain scenery of South Tyrol, this lovingly designed adventure playground combines exciting play stations, spectacular viewpoints and plenty of opportunities for kids to discover nature through play.

Whether you are travelling with toddlers or older children, it is the perfect destination for a relaxed family outing on Gitschberg Mountain.

The Nesselbahn Cable Car Ride Is Part of the Adventure

The adventure begins before you even reach the park. From Maranza, the Nesselbahn Cable Car takes visitors comfortably up to the Gitschberg hiking area.
Our children absolutely loved the long cable car ride. The intermediate station along the way makes the journey even more exciting and turns the ascent into a small adventure of its own. Once you arrive at the top station, the real fun begins just a few steps away.

The Gitschberg Sun Park: Sun-Themed Fun for the Whole Family

Right next to the mountain station and the Nesselhütte mountain hut, you will first find a small playground. The main attraction, however, is located just a short walk further on. A giant wooden horse with a carriage, known as the Sun Chariot, marks the entrance to the Gitschberg Sun Park. Nearby, a telescope invites visitors to admire the surrounding mountain landscape. From here, a long tube slide leads directly down into the beautifully designed play area, which is entirely dedicated to the theme of the sun.

Alternatively, visitors can reach the park via a small footpath or, if travelling with a stroller, by following the wide forest road.

Some of the highlights of The Gitschberg Sun Park include:

• two large tube slides
• the Sun Throne with slide
• the Sun Arch for climbing and balancing
• the Sun Bridge
• a Sun Telephone
• a “human” sundial
• swings
• wooden loungers and picnic areas
• spectacular panoramic views of the South Tyrolean Alps

What we loved most was the combination of nature, play and scenery. The wooden play installations blend beautifully into the surrounding mountain landscape.

Adventure Trail to Gitschhütte Mountain Hut

Once the children have had their fill of playtime, it is well worth continuing to the nearby Gitschhütte Mountain Hut. Families with strollers can simply follow the wide forest road, which leads gently uphill from the mountain station and reaches the hut in about 15 minutes.

Without a stroller, we highly recommend taking the Adventure Trail. It begins right next to the Nesselhütte and follows a small path alongside the tube slide towards Gitschhütte. On the return journey, children can even use the slide as part of their way back down. Along the trail, families will discover additional attractions such as:

• wooden animal sculptures
• swings
• a climbing igloo
• a zip line
• interactive play stations

These fun elements make the short walk to the mountain hut an adventure in itself.

A Family Stop at Gitschhütte

Gitschhütte is one of our favourite family-friendly mountain huts in South Tyrol. The breathtaking panoramic views alone make it worth a visit.
Right next to the hut, children can enjoy a large playground featuring:

• swings
• climbing structures
• balance elements
• a large trampoline

While the kids play, parents can relax on the terrace and soak up the mountain views and peaceful atmosphere.

The food is another highlight. Traditional South Tyrolean dishes are prepared with great care and high-quality local ingredients. We especially recommend trying the homemade syrups and house aperitifs. The combination of excellent food, a fantastic playground and stunning views makes Gitschhütte a perfect destination for families.

Return to the Nesselbahn Cable Car

For the return journey, simply follow either the Adventure Trail or the forest road back to the top station of the Nesselbahn Cable Car.

Nesselbahn Cable Car: Opening Times and Ticket Prices

Access to The Gitschberg Sun Park is free of charge. The park is located within the Gitschberg hiking area and can be reached within a few minutes from the top station of the Nesselbahn Cable Car in Maranza. For current ticket prices, operating hours and lift information, please visit the official Gitschberg Jochtal tourism website.

Route Map and Trail Overview

This map of The Gitschberg Sun Park provides an excellent overview of the various attractions and play stations along the themed trail. (© Gitschberg Jochtal)