The Getzenberg Farm Trail leads through the traditional mountain farming landscape on the southern side of the Puster Valley and offers fascinating insights into the region’s settlement history and rural way of life. The hike passes through sunny meadows, light forests and numerous historic farmsteads, some of which date back to the period of Roman settlement.
Along the route, old farm names tell the stories of former occupations and ways of life. For example, the farm name “Vögler” recalls the once widespread Tyrolean tradition of bird catching. The trail crosses a varied cultural landscape that is still shaped by the work of mountain farmers and vividly demonstrates the close connection between people and nature over generations.
One of the highlights of the hike is the former Ilstern spa. In the past, many visitors came here hoping to benefit from the healing properties of the spring water. While only a few traces of the spa remain today, the nearby chapel continues to bear witness to the site’s long history and offers a peaceful place to pause and reflect.
Throughout the hike, beautiful views open up over the Puster Valley, the surrounding villages and the mountain scenery of the region. The route combines nature, rural traditions and local history in a particularly enjoyable way. Several refreshment stops along the trail provide opportunities for a relaxing break.
This circular hike is especially suited to nature lovers and those interested in culture who wish to explore the Puster Valley away from the well-known routes and learn more about its historic cultural landscape.
Starting from the centre of St. Sigmund/San Sigismondo, follow trail marker no. 68 towards the Ilstern Way of the Cross. The route leads through the sunny mountain farming landscape of the Getzenberg, passing meadows, woodland and traditional farmsteads. Along the way, hikers can enjoy beautiful views of the Puster Valley and the surrounding mountains. Near the former Ilstern spa, the chapel along the Way of the Cross provides a peaceful place to pause and reflect.
The hike then continues downhill on the Farm Trail no. 68 towards Ehrenburg/Casteldarne. Along this section, numerous historic farmhouses reflect the long settlement history and rural traditions of the region. The varied landscape offers fascinating insights into the traditional life of the mountain farmers of the Getzenberg.
In Ehrenburg, the route joins "Römerweg", which leads back towards St. Sigmund/San Sigismondo. The trail eventually returns to the starting point.
The hike follows mainly easy to moderately difficult forest, meadow and farm tracks without technical challenges, making it ideal for nature lovers, culture enthusiasts and leisure hikers.
St. Sigmund/San Sigismondo is easily accessible by public transport. Take the train to Ehrenburg/ Casteldarne railway station. From there, continue by village bus no. 423 or, during the summer months, by hiking bus no. 426 to St. Sigmund. Alternatively, the starting point can also be reached conveniently by bus line 401 from Bruneck/Brunico or Brixen/Bressanone-
From Bruneck/Brunico, follow the Puster Valley State Road to St. Sigmund/San Sigismondo. The starting point of the hike is located at the parish church in the village centre.
From the Brixen/Pustertal motorway exit, follow the Puster Valley State Road to St. Sigmund/San Sigismondo. The hike starts directly at the church in the village centre.
Parking is available in the center of St. Sigmund/San Sigismondo, near the church.