The Gardens of Trauttmansdorff Castle: flower power

You can easily reach the Gardens of Trauttmansdorff Castle by bike by following the Sissi Path via the Summer Promenade. Please note that cycling is not allowed on the Winter Promenade. The Summer Promenade is a gravel path, but from Kirchsteig onwards the route is paved. Some lanes are narrow, so please ride slowly and carefully. The path is shared by both cyclists and pedestrians, so please be mindful of others.

Regarded as one of the most beautiful garden ensembles in Europe, the Gardens of Trauttmansdorff Castle are a vibrant celebration of botanical diversity. This twelve-hectare green stage, just minutes from Merano’s historic center, invites visitors to discover exotic plant life from across the globe. Sun-kissed slopes, delicate blossoms, Mediterranean olive groves and elegantly designed lily ponds combine to tell stories of nature, culture, and a passion for beauty. But Trauttmansdorff is far more than a botanical garden. It is a landscape thoughtfully composed, where nature becomes performance – with four themed areas and over 80 garden scenes unfolding like carefully choreographed acts. Here, terraced Mediterranean gardens meet dense North American woodland; surreal desert landscapes flow into tranquil water worlds – all framed by breathtaking views of Merano and the Texel mountain range. At the heart of it all stands the majestic Trauttmansdorff Castle. Once a refuge for Empress Elisabeth of Austria – better known as Sisi – who found healing and serenity here during her extended stays, the castle today is home to the Touriseum, South Tyrol’s one-of-a-kind Museum of Tourism.

Good to know:
- Awarded “Botanical Garden of the Year” in 2005, the gardens enchant with highlights such as a walk-in aviary, an underground grotto theatre, and a sound garden that makes the voices of plants come alive.
- Nature becomes a sensory experience along the “Garden of the Senses”: touch, smell, listen – here, walking becomes wonder.
- Each summer, the gardens transform into a concert venue, attracting international artists to perform on the open-air stage nestled in lush greenery.

The Gardens of Trauttmansdorff Castle inspire visitors of all ages: adventurers who journey through millions of years on the “Geological Mosaic”; romantics who linger among roses and waterfalls; curious minds who explore how plants shape our world through interactive displays.

And perhaps most magical of all: the gardens are always changing. With every season comes a new palette – the soft glow of magnolias and tulips in spring, a riot of fragrance and color in summer, and the golden brilliance of Japanese maples in autumn.
This is not a simple stroll through flowerbeds – it is a journey around the world, an immersive adventure, and a dialogue between nature and culture.

To ensure your comfort during hot summer days, here are some measures to keep in mind:

• Choose light-coloured, loose, and breathable clothing made from natural fibres such as linen to stay cool. Wear a hat or cap to protect your face from the sun and sunglasses to shield your eyes from UV rays.
• Use a sunscreen with a high sun protection factor (at least SPF 30) and reapply it regularly, especially if you are sweating.
• Bring a reusable water bottle and drink regularly to maintain hydration.
• Stay in shaded areas as much as possible to avoid direct sun exposure.
• Wet wipes or cool packs can help lower your body temperature. Place them on your wrists, neck, or other pulse points. Hand fans or battery-operated portable fans can also provide a refreshing breeze.
• Avoid heavy, greasy meals. Opt for light, water-rich snacks such as fruits and vegetables to keep yourself energized and cool.

These measures will help you stay comfortable and safe while enjoying the hot summer days.