The Three Castles Hike in Appiano (Eppan)

Three castles, steep wooden steps and beautiful views across the vineyards: the Three Castles Hike in Appiano is a real little adventure for the whole family. This circular route takes you past Korb Castle, the Boymont Castle ruins and Hocheppan Castle and is particularly beautiful in spring and autumn. In summer, however, some sections can get very hot.

Starting at Korb Castle

You can park close to Korb Castle, which is now home to a hotel. The circular hike can be completed in either direction, but when hiking with children, we usually head towards Boymont first and then continue to Hocheppan Castle. This gives you the chance to stop for lunch and take a longer break at Hocheppan before following the easier section of the trail back to the starting point.

Through the Forest to the Boymont Castle Ruins

First, follow trail no. 14 towards Boymont. The path leads through the vineyards before continuing uphill through a leafy forest. After around 20 minutes, you’ll reach the well-signposted castle ruins.

Make sure you take some time to explore Boymont from the inside. The castle courtyard is a lovely place for a short break, and the castle tavern serves drinks and meals. As both the castle and tavern are only open seasonally, check the current opening times before setting off.

Steep Wooden Steps to Hocheppan Castle

From Boymont, walk back for around five minutes until you reach the main trail. From here, follow the signs for Hocheppan Castle or the “Burgenweg” (Three Castles Trail). This is where the more challenging part of the hike begins, with a fairly steep climb through the forest.

Before long, you’ll reach the most spectacular section of the route: a series of narrow and steep but well-secured wooden steps leading down into the valley. You’ll need to be sure-footed and comfortable with heights, and younger children should be closely supervised. Once you reach the other side of the valley, the trail climbs uphill again towards Hocheppan Castle.

A Break among Ancient Castle Walls

A bridge leads you into the castle grounds, where ancient walls, colourful flowers and fragrant herbs create a truly special atmosphere. Hocheppan is also home to a small castle chapel, and guided tours are available. If you fancy trying something different, you can have a go at archery, with equipment available to hire on site.

The castle tavern is a wonderful place to enjoy lunch with a view while the kids explore the old walls and play hide-and-seek in the castle’s many corners. Don’t miss the freshly made Strauben, a traditional South Tyrolean fried pastry. Hocheppan Castle is generally open from late March to early November, but make sure to check the seasonal opening times before your visit.

Returning via the Kreideturm Tower

After your break, follow the trail downhill towards the Kreideturm Tower. If everyone still has enough energy, you can make a short detour to this former defensive outpost of Hocheppan Castle. The tower can only be viewed from the outside.

Then continue following the signs for the “Burgenweg” through the forest. Towards the end of the hike, a narrow path just above the paved road leads you back to the starting point near Korb Castle.

Important: Due to the steep paths and narrow wooden steps, the Three Castles Hike is not suitable for strollers.