EPPAN
Magazin
Stories about your vacation resort
Deeply rooted, diverse, like our landscape.
Eppan and the perfect holiday puzzle
Entertainment and fun, thrill and incentive for the whole family, in pairs or also alone: making a puzzle can be great. Especially the joy of finishing it. And that’s exactly the same with the nicest time of the year. When you go on holiday you have certain wishes, expectations and requirements – and the result should be a fun, entertaining but also restorative holiday time. There are lots of small pieces that make up a whole – and Eppan on the Wine Road has much to offer. In the area of the Alps with the highest density of fortresses you can try to conquer castles and manor houses. South Tyrol’s biggest
winegrowing municipality is the home of award-winning top-quality products and numerous doors, from small producers to big wineries, are open for wine lovers. Guided tours and wine tastings invite you to delve into the world of the winegrowers and cellar masters, whereas the wine villages with their charm, their hidden cellars and their lived traditions invite you to linger.
The nearby recreational area around the Montiggl lakes is a popular meeting place for all those who want to immerse themselves even deeper. Hiking and bike lovers meander through meadows and forests surrounded by nature. And whether you have a small or big appetite there are numerous places for all tastes to stop for a bite to eat.
Eppan itself consists of 11 districts – each with its own special corners and secret places. Together they form a small piece of a big (holiday) bliss.
The Eppan puzzle is named „castles, lakes, wine“. However, through its diversity, it offers 1001 peculiarities. Have fun and success piecing it all together!
Evelyn Falser President Tourist Association Eppan
Managing Director
Tourist Association Eppan
Welcome
Editing:
Authors: Und Punkt d. Petra Kerschbaumer, Tourism Association Eppan
Publisher: Tourism Association Eppan, Pres. Evelyn Falser, Dir. Evi Götsch
Responsible editor: Christiane Weinhold
Graphic concept, layout: Zephyris Grafik
Atelier der Julia von Wohlgemuth
Translation: Bonetti&Peroni, Karin Moser, Tourism Association Eppan
Image sources:
Alex Filz
Angelika Schwarz
Baila_Elia Piovesan
Baron Carl Philipp von Hohenbühel
Bordeaux Keller_Philipp Carli Boymont_Raphael Fink coop99
diewanderer.it – Dietmar Mitterer-Zublasing
Gasthof Lipp
Gasthof Wieser
Girlanerhof
Harald Wisthaler
Helmuth Rier
Hotel Frangart
Johannes Fein
JUMP Eppan
KG St. Pauls
Klaus Peterlin
Life Style Agency
Marion Lafogler
MK Girlan
Nadin Carli
Peter Paul Kainrath
Pillhof_Kathrin Verdorfer
Rainer Kainrath
Sabrina Unterholzer
Seppi Toni
Tiberio Sorvillo
Tourismusverein Eppan
ZDF/Sami Kuokkanen
Printing: Südtirol Druck
Circulation: 6.000 in German, 1.000 in Italian, 1.000 in English.
Note: Despite great care in selecting the sources, we accept no liability for the correctness of the
Reprinting and use only with the prior written permission of the editor. Subject to change without notice.
E V ENT-TI P
Spring EPPAN CASTLE FESTIVAL
Sunday, 25th May 2025
Venerable walls transport you back to the Middle Ages. Counts and castle maidens enchant you with their stories, knights showcase their skills at tournaments and hearty dishes provide strength for new adventures. The Castle Festival at Hocheppan Castle and Boymont Castle is an experience for the whole family.
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The Eppan puzzle of favourite places
Perdonig > the restaurants
The village itself is already a high light. Pure deceleration. And once you are seated at the restaurant Wieser, watching the world go by, you are far away from the hectic rush. Whereas from the restaurant Lipp one has an amazing view of the Merano valley basin over the Etsch valley basin to Bolzano and the Do lomites in the background.
Martin Walcher, district representative Perdonig
11 districts and lots of small peculiarities unite for a big picture: the municipality of Eppan is like a puzzle and each piece has its significance. Let’s trace the secret, well-established and popular places.
Gaid > the mountain meadows of Gaid
The small hamlet is unknown to many. And yet the innkeeper of the Moarhof in Gaid is a particular rarity. The mountain meadows of Gaid are a wonderful quiet place to dwell or for picnics. It doesn’t get more idyllic. Gaid itself is a great starting point for a nice hike to Sirmian past the restaurants Apollonia and Jäger.
Martin Walcher, district representative Perdonig
Berg > Kreuzstein & Schulthaus
Kreuzstein in Eppan Berg is a view point and quiet place. I recommend everyone to go there. It lies at only 600 m above sea level, but from there one can see the entire municipality of Eppan. Whereas in the hamlet Schulthaus one can visit Moos Castle. In addition, Eppan Berg is home to the best white wine locations around St. Valentin Castle.
Martin Walcher, district representative Perdonig
Unterrain > the „hanging stone“
Many connect the „hanging stone“ with childhood memories. You can reach the striking rock formation in the middle of the biotope on a leisurely half hour walk or by bike from the fire station in Unterrain along the old road to Andrian, which is closed to traffic. An idyllic place. The ivy that grows there is a botanical natural monument.
Benjamin Reckla, district representative Unterrain
Missian tour
What would Eppan be without its castles. The castle tour in Missian brings you to three historic structures that couldn’t be more diverse.
While Korb Castle is a hotel, when stepping into Boymont Castle the hiker enters a castle ruin. And after an adventurous path, along steep wooden stairs and a ravine, one reaches Hocheppan Castle where one can see the famous Knödel eater in the chapel, which one can visit on a guided tour. A great combination of history, adventure, nature and culinary art.
Benjamin Reckla, district representative Unterrain
Hocheppan Castle
restaurant Wieser
mountain meadows
„hanging stone“
Boymont Castle
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Girlan > the educational wine trail
Girlan and wine are one. Therefore the educational wine trail in Gschleier is great – for peace seekers and inquisitive minds alike. It’s accessible to everyone, whether on foot or with a pram. Only cyclists aren’t allowed. Those who are interested can spend an hour delving into the topic of wine through the five information boards. Depending on the time of year, on a stroll through the vineyards the hiker can experience how a grape develops and grows. The various grape varieties are explained in the place where they actually grow. Even for a layperson it’s a fascinating place and for peace seekers it’s a place for regeneration with an all-round view of the vineyards right up to Merano.
Georg Niedermayr, district representative Girlan
Frangart >the village inn
An inn in the village, as a meeting place for people, is something that one only begins to treasure once it’s not there anymore. And that’s why the newly re-opened historical inn Zum Schenk in the centre of Frangart is such a special place. In its simplicity, but also as a place of history, which is also apparent by the word „locanda“ on the house façade.
Monika Hofer-Larcher, district representative Frangart
St . Michael > the Gleif
The Gleif, a hill above St. Michael formed by a glacier, remains the undisputed favourite place. Whether it’s the path to get there, the Gleif chapel itself with its two red cupola roofs or the majestic view from the top of the hill, the Gleif is a point of attraction not only for weddings. The glacial polish is astonishing and educational. And to wander up the Edith-von-Stein round path is simply wonderful.
Ulrike Plazotta, district representative St. Michael
St. Pauls > the bunker circuit
The bunker circuit in St. Pauls is a leisurely walk which is rewarded with a lovely view of Bolzano. It can be reached in 10 minutes from the village centre and there is a bench in front of the exposed corner bunker for a rest and to linger. On your return to the village church you can also dwell in the shade under the lime trees.
Roland Faller, district representative St. Pauls
Montiggl > the „Hirschplätze“
The „Hirschplätze“ in Montiggl is a place that nobody should omit. The nicest thing about it is the amazing view of the 2 Montiggl lakes. The perspective is unique. The place is idyllic and popular as a place of rest, for a snack or as a place of special energy.
Petra Prackwieser, district representative Montiggl
Gand > the ice holes
They are a classic but nevertheless, the ice holes and the path to get to them are an adventure. Even on hot summer days cold air streams out of the rock crevices. In addition, along the path, you come across the first protected cat colony. Here, abandoned wild animals can live species-appropriately in a fenced-in enclosure – looked after by animal welfare activists. Furthermore there are two great forest playgrounds in the lower and upper Gand.
Martin Haller, district representative Gand
Zum Schenk
big Montiggl lake
the bunker circuit
ice holes
the educational wine trail
The Überetsch and its tagliatelle
Gourmets know exactly what the Überetsch tagliatelle are. Created by the Oberhofer family at the legendary Marklhof, they are now – newly interpreted – experiencing a Renaissance.
Was it grandma Adelheid or Uncle Andreas? „I think the raw materials were the original idea of my grandmother“, Kathrin Oberhofer reveals. The restaurant owner racks her memories and has „a very distinct taste on her palate when thinking of the „Überetsch tagliatelle“.
„I have a very distinct taste on my palate when thinking of the Überetsch tagliatelle“.
Kathrin Oberhofer, restaurateur and descendant of the tagliatelle creator.
„If I’m not mistaken, the dish became known through its connection with the so-called farmers’cuisine.
Newly interpreted tagliatelle „Even if guests ask me and I had the recipes, I wouldn’t want to replicate them but would prefer to cherish their memory,“ says the restaurant owner.
The taste of memories It’s the taste of smoked meat, of sour beans and melted brown butter. Combined with home-made tagliatelle. The „Überetsch tagliatelle“ are just one of the numerous well-known dishes that were served at the Marklhof in Girlan from the 1960s onwards. Their steak tartar or their pasta squares with courgettes and porcini are legendary.
„Especially the Italians were mad about these dishes“, Oberhofer says. The „Tagliatelle all’Oltradige“, as the Überetsch tagliatelle were called, were served to the guests but also to the Oberhofers at home, especially in autumn and winter.
Every year a cook presented a typical dish – and head chef Andreas refined grandma Adelheid’s dish and presented the „Überetsch tagliatelle“ Kathrin Oberhofer relates.
In 2018 the recipe was published in the book „Marklhof – Bellavista“ together with another 59 typical Oberhofer dishes.
Guests have extremely good memories, even after 20 years. „I would like them to keep these recollections and don’t want to spoil their expectations,“ says Oberhofer who, together with her very young kitchen staff, focuses on different dishes. She owns and runs the restaurant/vinotheque Pillhof, not far from the now closed Marklhof.
„It’s a different matter if the dish is newly interpreted,“ acknowledges Oberhofer talking about the renaissance of the „Überetsch tagliatelle“ at the hands of star chef Herbert Hintner (see interview).
„Tagliatelle in memoriam Marklhof“
Why do you serve the Überetsch tagliatelle “in memoriam”?
Herbert Hintner, star chef: I didn’t invent the tagliatelle. I have simply re-cooked them – in memoriam Marklhof – because I have a lot of respect for them, for the legendary restaurant and the hard-working people. I wrote the preface to the book „Marklhof – Bellavista“, where Andreas Oberhofer has collected 60 recipes, including the Überetsch tagliatelle.
Topics such as the use of resources and sustainability were big already then – and are again nowadays.
Herbert Hintner, star chef Restaurant Platzegg
When can one taste your Überetsch tagliatelle?
Hintner: You can find them on the menu of the restaurant Platzegg, normally in December and January. Smoked meat belongs to the colder season, beans are winter vegetables.
How would you classify this dish in present times?
Hintner: Regional cuisine is always a big topic. Oberhofer & Co. were a different generation of cooks with a different point of view than we have nowadays. They lived through the difficult times from the 1940s onwards. However, topics such as the use of resources and sustainability were big already then – and are again nowadays. stmichael.it office@stmichael.it
FOR WINE & CULINARY DELICACIES
What looks rather small and inconspicuous from the outside turns out to be a real gem on the inside. In the middle of the picturesque wine village St.Pauls Martin and his wife Stephanie runs a delicatessen shop for true palate lovers. Here you can find an enormous choice of Eppan quality wines, Speck-sausages-cheese, regional and Mediterranean delicacies off the counter, as well as professional consulting. All products are at vintner prices and the possibility to taste is also granted. Everyone is welcome in Vis à Vis, whether big or small, everyone is greeted with a warm GRÜSS GOTT.
Steffi & Martin Schwarzer
VIS À VIS ENOTHEK WEIN- & GENUSSHAUS
Paulser Platz 16 (St. Pauls) www.visavis-enothek.com | T +39 0471 665 927
Opening hours: Mo - Fr 8.30am -1pm/ 15-19pm SA 8.30am - 1pm
Good to know
Every Thursday at 16.00 an exciting WINE & CULINARY Tasting takes place with Martin. Cost: 30 € pP.
A very worthwhile experience. Only with booking at +39 339 3699971
Aaah straight from the taaap!
It is invaluable and all too often taken for granted: water that can be drunk directly from the tap. Therefore, it is even more precious to be able to fill one’s drinking bottle up directly from a fountain.
Clean drinking water is a luxury. South Tyrol’s municipalities are still predominantly in the lucky situation that the vital wetness comes from the water pipe and is drinkable. In many places in our Western world consumers are used to lugging drinking water home in plastic bottles. Not in these parts of the world. Here mountain spring water still comes out of the tap. Even the municipality of Eppan possesses a tight network of white water pipes fed by water coming from reliable mountain springs. They are administrated by drinking water cooperatives.
Holidays to feel good
Especially on holidays a water bottle is a constant companion, indispensable on hot summer days. And therefore it’s extremely nice and convenient when one’s water reserves can constantly be re-filled along the way. This doesn’t only reduce plastic waste but also symbolises that the world is still ok and nature is still safe.
With „South Tyrol Refill“ the umbrella organisation for Nature and
Environment Conservation has created a platform which currently lists 2038 public water taps where one can refill one’s water bottle free of charge. Hereby, shops, bars or restaurants can also become refill stations, as long as they don’t charge anything. Eppan currently has 53 listed stations. (see QR-Code).
A few suggestions for a sustainable holiday which leaves a lot of traces but hardly any footsteps:
Enjoy a CONSCIOUS holiday
▶ familiarise yourself with the culture, the traditions and the correct behaviour in nature
▶ enjoy regional and seasonal products from local providers
▶ use walking maps and specified paths
▶ abstain from daily room cleaning services
Be ATTENTIVE
▶ sticking to footpaths avoids damage and accidents
▶ long-sleeved clothes protect you from sunburns and tick bites
▶ respect private property and don’t just pick fruit or vegetables (buy them at the market or directly from farm shops)
▶ only order or buy what is really needed
▶ take your rubbish home and dispose of it correctly
▶ bring toilet paper (other wipes don’t easily decompose)
▶ keep dogs on a leash and dispose of their droppings in rubbish bins
Live more INTENSELY
▶ don‘t just collect more impressions, but rather deeper ones
▶ put your phone away and don’t just enjoy things through a lense
▶ linger, without having to do anything
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Mindful in Eppan
Scan me:
Adventure trips for the whole family
Ideal for prams and balance bikes.
On the tarmacked path there are playgrounds and areas for snacks.
Choochoo! On the move, like once the old train
Whether on two legs, two or four wheels: a walk along the old railroad from Eppan to Kaltern is a wonderful opportunity to get to know the “Überetsch” in a comfortable, simple and also varied way.
break there are a few rest areas and playgrounds, as well as a place for small snacks. You return from Kaltern on the same route. It’s easy to have fun and let steam off.
The promenade was built along the former railway line of the Überetsch Railway train and is therefore called the „old railroad walk“. A highlight and good reason to get to Kaltern is the old locomotive which is positioned at the end of the walk. It used to chug back and forth between Kaltern and the provincial capital Bozen.
The entire road is tarmacked, but mainly closed for traffic. It is a cycle path but adults can also walk along it and children use their balance bikes. So one can move quite fast! And when in need of a
Ideal for bathing beauties who enjoy gliding through refreshing water or meandering through an enchanting landscape.
An energising run and then a wonderful cooling-off
A dive into the Montiggl lakes is pure bliss for water lovers of any age. However, there are also great hikes in the forests around the lakes in the middle of a biotope.
Old Railroad
Starting and end point: Town
Hall square, St.Michael
Difficulty: easy
Distance: 8.2 km
Walking time: 2.5 hours
Ascent: 25 m
Descent: 25 m
The hike begins at the car park of the Montiggl lakes and follows path no. 20 towards the big Montiggl lake. The round tour around the lake is well signed and offers wonderful views of the water and the surrounding nature. From there a connection path leads through a shady forest to the small Montiggl lake and around it in about 20 minutes.
The peacefulness, the many beautiful spots at the lake and a dive into the cool water invite you to linger before returning to the big Montiggl lake. From there you return to the starting point at the car park along path no. 20. The entire distance is easily walkable, ideal for families,
and offers numerous possibilities to enjoy nature. A break at the rest areas or a refreshing dip round off the hike. And one can finish off with a visit to a nearby restaurant or café.
BIG AND SMALL MONTIGGL LAKES
Starting and end point: Car park
Montiggl lakes
Difficulty: easy-medium
Distance: 6-7 km
Walking time: 2-2.5 hours
Ideal for diving into the world of the knights. On the archery course at Hocheppan, small and big huntsmen hunt 3D animals with bow and arrow.
En garde!
Back to the time of knights and castles
Conquer a castle keep or go hunting with bow and arrow: if you would like to delve into the life of a knight and don’t dread staircases or ravines then the Three-Castle-Tour is for you.
THREE CASTLE TOUR
Starting and end point: Missian, Schloss Hotel Korb Difficulty: easy-medium, surefootedness necessary
Distance: 7.9 km
Walking time: 3 hours
Ascent: 400 m
Descent: 400 m
If the children are at the perfect age to conquer castles and for a trip through the forest then you are all set. Schloss Hotel Korb is one of the three historical fortified castles and the one that is best preserved and now run as a hotel. Shortly after driving past the hotel there is a small car park in the wood. From there the exciting hike begins. Keep following the signs for the Castle Tour (Burgenwanderung).
What starts as a pleasant walk through shrub forest with a view over vineyards towards Bolzano soon turns into a steeper ascent. This gives us an idea of the efforts of the knights and especially the infantry during field campaigns. However, the rising Chalk Tower
provides some joy, as Hocheppan Castle, situated majestically on a rock, is within reach. The guided castle tour, the castle inn and the archery course are three of the highlights up here. The continuing path is somewhat adventurous, but well signed. You follow a narrow path down to a ravine in order to climb up the other side again on metal, partly suspended, stairs. Hiking through the wood, your next destination gets closer and closer: after discovering a cave also the last ascent isn’t too strenuous as the aim is the Boymont Castle. The castle’s keep stands directly in the castle complex and can be ascended. The view is worth all the efforts and the castle inn offers snacks and drinks. Then you follow a steep tarmac road back to the car. And if you want you can take another look at Schloss Hotel Korb in order to get back to the Here and Now, after your trip to the Middle Ages.
@weingutlentsch
Your moment, our simplywine, to enjoy. With us, wine becomes a truly special experience – for all the senses.
Eppan & Wine in numbers
20
Wine producers, sparkling wine producers and distilleries are united under the umbrella brand Eppan Wein
300 sunny days are good for Eppan’s vineyards
1012
hectares of vineyard acreage belong to South Tyrol’s biggest wine growing municipality
713 hectares white wine more than
299 hectares red wine
20 different grape varieties are cultivated Pinot Blanc and Pinot Noir are the most pressed varieties
11
recognised locations of South Tyrolean DOC wines are present in Eppan
2,000
years ago, wine was already being cultivated in Eppan
The wine in Eppan grows between 250 and 650 metres of altitude
150 euros
per 0,75l-bottle is the price for the currently most expensive wine in Eppan (shelf price)
A vine is considered „old“ after 25-30 years and ready for higher quality standards
10 million bottles are produced by Eppan‘s wineries and vineyards every year
Since 1971 Eppan has been part of the South Tyrolean Wine Route
Summer
E V ENT-TI P WINECULTUREWEEKS
18th July until 1st August 2025
The Eppan WineCultureWeeks delight visitors with exquisite events centered around fine wines. For the “Gastliche Tafel”, a great gourmet event, Herbert and Daniel Hintner, supported by rising culinary talents, create delectable gourmet creations.
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Brass band music live in concert
The repertoire of the local music bands is as diverse as the tastes of the audience at their concerts –especially during the Eppan music nights.
Talent and talent pool
Folklore, a thing of the past? On the contrary!
When Eppan’s musicians smarten up and draw out their instruments then we have a brass band tremor. This can be experienced also during the Eppan Music Nights.
They love what they do and it doesn‘t only look good, most of all, it sounds good. A vigorous march, a popular polka, well-known film music and modern pieces: „We play what people like. But marching music is still very popular”, Bernhard Andrich reveals. The French horn player is the chairman of the Girlan music band, one of 4 bands that are active in the municipality of Eppan.
The talent and enthusiasm to make music is literally given to some at birth. As such, at times there are no less than nine musicians in the band belonging to Jakob Obkircher’s relatives, the chairman of the music band of Frangart.
After attending the excellent local music school nothing stands in the way of a membership in the music band. „It’s a passion, a hobby, comradeship and compensation, yet also a commitment”, reminds Obkircher. Because in addition to the numerous ecclesiastical and secular performances there are also the band practises which take place twice a week – before important concerts even more frequently.
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Fresh sounds on mild summer nights
In addition to their ecclesiastical commitments, the highly attractive annual concerts and the popular festival performances, the music bands also invite you to their evening performances on warm summer nights, as part of the Eppan music nights.
Lots of people in the audience means maximum concentration for the music band. „This heightens the passion and joy of playing music”, says Alexander Pircher. The baritone horn player is the chairman of the music band St. MichaelEppan. During the music nights at times there are performances in the music pavilion in the centre of the village, however „concerts in a manor or inner courtyard are particularly nice and also a special challenge. The acoustics are suddenly totally different”, Pircher comments.
Sound and traditional costumes
The composition of the band members is also essential for the sound. „It’s important to have a balanced mixture of high and low brass, wood and percussion instruments”, explains Dominik Ebner. The redbeard at the drum set is the chairman of the music band St. Pauls, the formation which stands out through its blue jackets and cylinder-shaped hats. In other respects the four music bands are similarly equipped. The male traditional costume corresponds to the Überetsch tradition and is indispensable for a befitting appearance and marks the special affiliation to the music band. „The traditional costume belongs to the music band and is lent to its members”, the chairman of St. Pauls explains. The outfit costs up to 3000 euros per person. The abdominal belt, embroidered by quill, costs an additional 1500 euros. Nevertheless, the appearance is suitable and well received.
A photo please!
“In summer, many guests visit from abroad or big cities like Milan and Rome, and sometimes they ask us for a photo together”, Bernard Andrich, chairman of the Girlan music band, happily relates. The female sutlers are also part of the band. In older days only men were represented in the bands and so four female sutlers accompanied them for decorative purposes, two of them carrying small Schnapps barrels and two of them flower decorations. „About half the musicians nowadays are women. Without them we couldn’t continue”, Andrich jokes.
In our assortment you can find grappa, fruit and berry brandy, but also specialities such as blood orange, rum or gin.
The latter was awarded „Best Italian Classic Gin“ at the World Gin Awards 2022 in London and at Falstaff Spirits 2023 it was awarded “Best gin of the Tasting” with 95 points.
Our youngest novelty, the St.Urban Single Malt, impresses through decent smoky notes, mild malt sweetness and wonderful fruit notes, which he gets form being stored in Gewürztraminer Passito barrels.
Brennerei St. Urban Lammweg 13, 39057 Girlan T +39 338 502 7226 | info@st-urban.it www.st-urban.it Shop opening hours Mo-Fr 10am - 6pm | Sat 10am - 4pm Tastings on request
Magazin
Master distiller Erwin and son Felix whilst tasting.
TIP:
The Eppan Music Nights take place on selected Fridays from May to September.
Annuncio stampa
Let’s turn night into day!
Whether on a stroll along well-lit alleys, whilst conquering a castle ruin at twilight or dancing to disco beats at „Baila”: Eppan lives and shakes also at night.
You can enjoy a knight’s feast from the smoker and much more on the Boymont Castle.
A stop-off with a wow-effect
Flickering lights and a gentle smell from the smoker, fresh beats and an ancient backdrop: it’s a highlight to visit the Boymont Castle by night.
When entering Boymont you are immediately hit by it: „the wow effect”, says Lena Ramoser. When she and Raphael Fink leased the ruin, and with it the castle tavern three years ago, they knew that „one could do something cool with it”.
Since then, the restaurateurs haven’t only been serving their guests wine but have also been spoiling them with local dishes such as home-made Schlutzkrapfen or Knödel and especially with spare ribs or joints of meat from the smoker. Also pulled pork burgers are sometimes on the menu as well as pickled grey cheese. Whilst one can visit the ruin daily during the day, at night it is open only on special occasions. At regular intervals the „long castle nights” invite you to dance amidst the medieval walls to decent live music under colourful spotlights and surrounded by numerous candles. „And finally, we also open up for birthday parties, corporate events, and cohort reunions on request”, says Ramoser. The only thing to dampen the wow effect would be the weather, as it all takes place outdoors.
Don’t forget good shoes, then you can reach the ruin after a 15-minute hike. And for the night-owls: bring a torch!
Where_ Boymont Castle
When_ TU-SU from 10 am to 6 pm evenings: upon reservation or for events
„Baila”
doesn’t only mean good vibes through Zucchero’s dance song. As a disco, „Baila” has become a meeting place for nightowls from Eppan and afar.
Night shopping is a festival
It’s a bit like a village festival when on long Wednes days the shops and clubs invite you for evening shopping, combined with pleasurable experiences.
Strolling, looking, marvelling, shopping, swaying, tasting… For those who don’t find time during the day, Wednesday shopping evenings shouldn’t be missed. Strolling through the alleys and browsing through the various offers of the small, but dainty shops, is a special experience.
On nine evenings in July and August, Eppan’s shop owners keep their shops open beyond normal opening hours – until 10 pm or some even until 11 pm. Various music groups provide entertainment along the alleys. Restaurants and clubs serve food and drinks outdoors and turn the hustle and bustle into an event with village festival flair.
Where_ Disco Baila
When_ FR-SA and pre-festive days from 10 pm until 3:30 am
Feel the disco-beat
„What kind of music is being played is far more important nowadays than it was a couple of years ago”.
This is Elia Piovesan’s perception. Since 2022 he has been running the Disco Baila together with his girlfriend and his. „Through Spotify nowadays everyone can listen to their favorite music at any time. So we really have to think of something special.”
However, this challenge drives Piovesan to continuously offer something new, to constantly present different DJs and also to focus on motto evenings with different music styles. Maybe that‘s why
Baila is „one of the most visited and appreciated venues“ the disco owner proudly comments. On Fridays, entry is always open to the age group 16+, on Saturdays it’s 18+.
Especially people in their mid-twenties enjoy the club, however, also groups of night owls aged over 50 are happy when they find something going on late at night. „Eppan is in the great position that there is a lot of movement also at night”, says Piovesan and punctually opens the doors at 10 pm. „We have also invested lots in safety. That is absolutely essential nowadays”, says Piovesan, ready for the next events.
The long shopping evening on Wednesdays guarantees late night shopping deluxe.
Where_ St. Michael When_ Wednesdays in July + August
Tropical feeling in a cellar
Actually, Bordeaux dominates here. Nevertheless, we encounter a fruity, fresh and above all tropical house cocktail in the Bordeauxkeller.
Name, house wall, Berkel cutting machine, wine, speck …everything is somehow bordeaux. „Of course we like to drink wine…”, say the owners Philipp Carli and Michael Huber pointing to the 1000 different labels. Next to them there are about 200 spirits. „…. followed by cocktails. The classics, Whiskey Sour or Espresso Martini are in great demand”, Carli expresses. New and compellingly fruity, in fact quite tropical, is their house creation „Tiki Passion”. And for those who like it a bit sparkling in order to warm up: as aperitif there are various Spritz variations!
Tiki Passion - ingredients: Spirit (ex. Vodka)
Passion fruit syrup
Grenadine syrup
Orange juice
Lemon juice
Dash Creole Bitter
Where_ Bordeauxkeller
Josef-Innerhoferstraße 14
St. Michael
When_ WE-FR: 5 pm -11 pm, SA: 11 am - 11 pm
The patrolgrape
A lot of work – good payment
Nowadays the Saltner is primarily a photo attraction, but he used to be an important public official. It was his job to protect the precious grapes from human or animal thieves – day and night.
„They were young, unmarried and honourable men that were always sworn in and appointed at the end of July in order to protect a „Riegel” (= vineyard location), Werner Spitaler from Girlan explains. For festivals or events involving wine he still performs the role of the Saltner nowadays. His grandfather Alois was one of the last Saltners at the end of the 1950s.
„It was an honourable, but tiring job round the clock, seven days a week, for a good three months”, Spitaler says. The Saltner was a public official, who lived in huts or shacks in the middle of the vineyards for the entire duration of his patrol duty. For this he received the annual payment of a chief farm hand. Dressed for work with a linen shirt, working trousers, a hat and a stick, nowadays Spitaler presents himself in festive clothes. With the peacock feathers on his hat, that represent the all-seeing eye, he is an impressive sight. Around his neck he wears the Saltner’s necklace, pendants of sacred coins, crosses, fox tails or animals’ teeth. „With every step it jingles like the church bells. This was meant to keep away bad spirits and scallywags”, explains Spitaler.
Ascent Furglau Matschatsch Viewpoint
Let’s pedal!
Being on two wheels can mean so much nowadays.
Whether as a pleasure biker on leisurely routes through vineyards and orchards, as an E-biker on more demanding trails or as a mountain biker from the valley up to the peaks – one thing is the same for everybody: the priority is movement and the joy of being able to discover the popular holiday destination on a bike seat. Eppan is an ideal starting point for numerous routes. Furthermore, there are many bike-friendly accommodations.
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Biketours
Where only the location counts
Where does which type of wine grow best? In order to answer this question Südtirol Wein has designated and recognised 86 special locations, 11 of them are in Eppan.
What counts with wine is its quality. This begins with the soil on which the vine grows.
„South Tyrol has an exceptionally big biodiversity within a very small area. This is linked to the respective locations, the soils and the microclimate“, explains Oscar Lorandi. He is the president of the Winery Girlan and on the executive board of the consortium Südtirol Wein. Eppan is South Tyrol’s biggest wine growing municipality. And here alone about 20 different varieties are grown. What the diversity brings along is on the one side the fact that the perfect variety doesn’t always grow on the most ideal soil and on the other hand that the communication about the wines becomes confusing.
„Terroir shouldn’t only be a marketing definition, but should be recognisable also in the wine glass“, consortium Südtirol Wein claims. After a lot of preparatory work a total of 86 minutely documented locations were designated in South Tyrol and the most suitable grape varieties were determined. In Eppan there are eleven such special locations. „Whether the location concept will prevail everywhere is yet to be seen. At any rate a quality pyramid will be compiled“, says Lorandi.
With the recognition by the ministry of agriculture the location – for example Eppan Berg or Missian – can be listed on the label as geographical specification next to the indication „Südtirol DOC“. Yes, it has to be denoted by the specially designed pictogram. „Thereby in future the consumer can immediately recognise such a location wine“, explains Lorandi.
The location concept
Behind the location concept lies the recognition that the grape and wine quality is influenced primarily by the soils and microclimate as well as the sea level, the slope inclination, the sun exposure, the thermal lift, the air circulation and the precipitation.
THE 11 LOCATIONS IN EPPAN
MONTIGGL
KREIT
GIRLAN
GIRLAN-GSCHLEIER
ST. ANNA
EPPAN-BERG
EPPAN-BERG-SCHULTHAUS
MADERNEID
PAULSNER FELD
HUBERFELD
MISSIAN
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Autumn E V ENT-TI P CASTELMUSIKA
Sunday, 19th October 2025
It’s the play of colours in autumn that catches the eye, the sound of music that fills the ear, and the scent of delicacies that rises to the nose. It’s Castelmusika –a walk to the castles, manors and wine estates of Eppan, accompanied by lots of music (see also pages 54-55).
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On a time journey
Can an old castle survive in this day and age?
Count Khuen-Belasi points at Englar Castle proving that such a time travel can succeed without shaking the foundation walls.
Whoever visits a historical building involuntarily begins a journey into the past. But can this also happen the other way round? What should be done with the venerable walls in the here and now?
Englar Castle has been in the possession of the Khuen-Belasi family since 1621. This means there is a lot of history to keep and cherish. Even with the danger of fading into the dust of history? No, thought Johannes Count Khuen-Belasi. He has had many ideas and changed many things since he took over the estate from his father in 1988. From doctor to Lord of the castle. From orthopaedic surgeon to hotelier. And so also Englar Castle has changed.
Natural, organic, approachable Naturally organic, “because our animals such as donkeys, sheep and chickens roam freely around the estate.” As well as the guests that are housed in the hotel section of Englar Castle. The restoration of the hotel wing in 2015 was a decisive factor in running a modern hotel amidst medieval walls and for receiving the award “Historic Hotel 2020”. It’s the whole package that makes his business special, the count is convinced: “the unity of house, farm, garden and chapel. A small paradise which is open to locals as well as guests. “
Idle potential
In 2012 “the idle potential in plain view” led to the revitalising of the wine cellar, which had been abandoned in the 1930s, and the extension through an underground section in 2018. The estate includes 13 hectares, 10 are withheld for growing wine. “Our flagships are the Pinot Blanc and Pinot Noir, the most special wine is the Riesling”, says Count Khuen-Belasi.
About 50.00 bottles of organic wine leave the sparkling wine cellar annually.
Are you interested in a private view behind the castle walls and taste of organically produced wines?
A guided tour through Moos Castle and Englar Castle with subsequent wine tasting in the castle winery makes this possible.
Place_ Englar Castle
Time_ 2 hours
Cost_ 20 Euro
Info_ Tourist Office Eppan
ENGLAR CASTLE
...and wasn t seen again...
Eppan has many treasures. Beside castles and lakes it is also rich in stories, myths and legends. One of them is about a golden game of skittles.
It’s the stuff that the best stories are made of: a true core entwined with the imagination and the superstition of a time gone by. And this is what happened once upon a time on Hocheppan Castle where some shepherd boys were grazing their goats and sheep near the ruin. „As an animal was missing in the evening, they went to look for it and arrived at the castle,” Helmuth Gisser says. He is a guide on Hocheppan and willingly recounts this legend when asked.
On their search the boys came across a long dark corridor and
followed it. Curiously, they crawled inside and came upon a chamber.
„There they saw a golden game of skittles,” Gisser conveys the joy and excitement the goat shepherds must have felt. However, as the church bells of St. Pauls had already rung for the evening the boys had to hurry. „In the meantime, it had turned so dark that they couldn’t find the exit anymore and wandered around in horror,” Gisser recounts. They had to stay in the cave until the next ringing of the bells, only reaching the open air again in the morning. „Their parents, whom they had told about their adventure, obviously went to look for the golden game of skittles,“ Gisser concludes his story „however, it was never seen again.“
Instead of the golden game of skittles from the story, a wooden game of skittles stands in the forecourt of Hocheppan Castle, with the ball attached to a rope.
Built around 1130, the castle nowadays belongs to the municipality of Eppan. Castle chapel, castle inn and bow and arrow circuit are only some highlights.
A visit is well worth it:
_Open from 5th April until 9th November 2025
_Castle inn: 10 am to 6 pm,
warm food 11 am to 3.30 pm
_Closing day: Wednesday
_Guided tours of the castle: April to July: THU-SUN August: THU-MON
September to November: THU-TUE
Every half hour from 11 am to 4 pm
Castle shuttle: +39/338/5879545
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HOCHEPPAN CASTLE
It‘s all about inspiration, music, history, culinary delights, and vibrant colours. What makes the Castelmusika culture and gourmet hiking day on October 19th so special?
5 good reasons for Castelmusika 5 good reasons for Castelmusika
1)
CASTLES, MANORS AND WINE ESTATES
Castelmusika opens gates and doors dating back to the 13th century. Historical sites, courtyards, gardens, parklands and cellars invite visitors to explore and linger. There are crenelated walls with round-arched portals, private chapels, outdoor staircases with loggias, stucco decorations, panel paintings, sundials and coats of arms.
What’s special: access is granted to areas that are normally off-limits to visitors.
FROM CHOIR SONGS TO FOLK MUSIC
Castelmusika lives from and for music. Groups and choirs, brass bands, and Schuhplattler perform their pieces. The musicians play lively and entertaining, as well as serious and profound tunes.
What’s special: The musicians keep walking along the route and if you miss a group at one location, you can listen to them elsewhere.
3)
FROM THE CHILD TO THE GRANDMOTHER
Castelmusika takes place along a signed route that can easily be walked by everyone.
What’s special: Enthusiastic walkers have the opportunity to cover up to six kilometres of the route. However, it is also possible to just walk individual sections.
4)
WINE AND OTHER ENJOYMENTS
Castelmusika awakens your appetite for tasty autumn dishes.
Hauswurst with sauerkraut, farmer’s doughnuts and cakes, polenta and other typical specialties are served. Fine wines are poured.
What’s special: Wine has been produced here since the Middle Ages and the landowners became wealthy, which is why Eppan is so rich in manors and castles.
5)
CASTELMUSIKA LETS AUTUMN SHINE
During this time of year, there are still pleasantly mild temperatures in Eppan. The vineyards create a special display of colours.
What’s special: From the goldenyellow slopes the view stretches far across the land right up to the partially snow-covered Dolomites. 2)
is equally suitable for families, eager culture enthusiasts or simply for those seeking entertainment.
Since 2014 the culture and gourmet hiking day has been delighting up to 1000 participants per edition.
Castelmusika is a walk with a mixture of music and unique architecture.
CASTELMUSIKA
Everything started with the clock, then the 1400 pictures, that grace the JUMP nowadays, followed.
An ornament of recycled components
When discarded objects become special: The JUMP in Eppan isn’t only optically an eye catcher. Whoever enters the youth and culture centre plunges into a cosy, equally open and creative world, which has mainly become like this through upcycling.
1400 pictures decorate the JUMP. And yet they don’t all hang inside the house but mainly on the house, where they decompose and are overgrown by climbing plants. Martin Hell nailed them to the house wall. He is youth worker, stage builder, do–it-yourselfer, janitor, discussion partner and at times father substitute. Every time he opens his workshop in the JUMP creativity is on the cards. Then the youngsters can grind, cut, paint, stick and even weld. „The young people arrive with ideas and I help them to implement them independently”, Hell explains the
concept. We have everything apart from prefabricated templates because this would inhibit creativity. Christmas trees and go-karts are built, as well as bar tables and soap box carts. Spraying techniques are tried out and even forging and baking furnaces are created. Diversity and openness is always the guiding principle.
Materials from the recycling yard
The JUMP has been arranged and decorated with upcycled objects. With a seating area and 8 different chairs, with flower pots made of wood and stone, with recycled lamps and shelves made of old skateboards and the ever-present
The Bettlattosaurus is a work of art that was created out of bed slats.
“I’m at the recycling yard twice a day. Discarded objects gain a second life here”, says Hell revealing where the recycled material comes from. Some objects are brought directly to the JUMP as people know of Hell’s passion. Many plants and carpets, hidden sculptures and lots of colour make the individual rooms and the garden special and most of all cosy. Hell benefits from his „magic
touch”, his long-term job as a mason and his involvement as a stage constructor and artist. Even musicians like coming to the JUMP, because the atmosphere is unique and the location with its various rooms unparalleled to play in. However, primarily it’s about the youngsters, who can find a place here which they often don’t have (or not anymore) at home. A place to chill, to chat, but even to experiment, to do some handiwork, to be heard and supported. „Some need to be curbed in their ideas, some need to be encouraged. And even I can learn from the youngsters”, the youth worker is sure of this – and heads off into the storage rooms full of recyclable findings.
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JUMP EPPAN
_Youth and culture centre
St. Michael MO-FR 3 pm until 8 pm
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Way more than a shaded spot, a garden allotment, a cinema, a garden bar, a BBQ area or cooking corner. Whoever visits the „Garden of encounters” next to the JUMP enters a colourful, diverse world, which welcomes visitors without expecting anything in return.
Much more than (just) a garden
The true value of acting
„It doesn’t matter how old or how young, where from or why. Everybody is welcome and can stay in the garden without having to consume something or do anything”, Marla Nichele explains the philosophy behind it. What helps the various encounters are seating places and hammocks, table football, a small bar. One can cook together over a fire pit or oven and prepare lasagne, pizza, bread on a stick or baked apples. Some garden beds can be
planted, cared for and harvested. It’s nice to have a chat amongst cucumbers and tomatoes, herbs and flowers. For stressed people a place to quietly relax. „Surrounded by nature we want to learn from it and from each other”, says Nichele. And the coordinator emphasises: „Whereas the JUMP primarily concentrates on young people, the „Garden of encounters” is really „open for everybody”.”
„GARDEN OF ENCOUNTERS”
_Youth and culture centre JUMP Open on three afternoons from April to November from 2 pm until 6 pm (in the summer until 22)
Gerti Drassl has dedicated herself to acting, but not to the spotlight. The native from Eppan gladly, albeit rarely, returns to South Tyrol, sometimes even to perform on stage there. A conversation.
As Gerti Drassl you step into makeup. At what point do you become the character that you are playing?
Gerti Drassl: Every piece of the puzzle is important: the makeup, the costume, the preparation, the conversation, the research. It’s about the big picture. Thereby the character is never a finished product, it sometimes changes during the flow of the performance. Taking things in, implementing them, and reacting is essential. But it has also happened to me that, in the middle of a play, I suddenly drop out of character and think: „Oh, I’m standing on stage, and there are hundreds of people watching me.“
What makes a good actress? Perseverance?
Every actress needs that just to be able to stand on stage (laughs). The first and most important building block is the diaphragmatic breathing. Children do it naturally, but we adults breathe quickly and in the upper chest area. You can’t act like that.
Does one also need perseverance to be successful over the years?
Above all, you need the passion to keep dedicating yourself to it again and again. So that you don’t give up when you once don’t have a job or when you’re not seen the way you would like to be.
“The most important principle is that one plays with passion, whether in the theatre in Eppan or Vienna.”
Gerti Drassl, actress
Gerti Drassl
Born in 1978 in Eppan, Gerti Drassl initially studied art history in Vienna before pursuing acting at the Max Reinhardt Seminar. In addition to her theatre work, the South Tyrolean actress, who lives in Vienna, regularly appears in film and television productions. She made her film debut in 2001 in Michael Haneke‘s adaptation of “The Piano Teacher”. This was followed by numerous other film engagements such as “The Bone Man”, “The Wonder of Carinthia”, “The Diary of Anne Frank” and “The Trafficker”. From 2015 to 2018, Drassl played one of the lead roles in three seasons of “Vorstadtweiber”. She has received several nominations and awards, including the German Acting Award and the Austrian Film Award. In 2025, she will perform in “Die Redaktion”, a guest performance by the Volkstheater Vienna, at the Kulturhaus Karl Schönherr in Schlanders (April 9th at 19.30) and at the KiMM in Meran (April 10th at 19.30).
Are you recognised on the street as Maria from “Vorstadtweiber”?
No, people recognise me as the actress who plays Maria. I actually never would have thought that I would one day play such a character. It’s wonderful to grow into something and to develop an understanding of it. What makes me happy is that couples also sit together in front of the TV — that acting brings people together.
Is that the true value of acting?
For me, it lies in the coming together of different people who share a story and the unique moment. This includes everyone — the colleagues and the audience. When something that touches everyone, stirring them up an drawing them all in — that’s where the true value lies.
That sounds like a big mission... I always like to mention the story of Frederick, the little mouse (picture book by Leo Lionni). Unlike his fellow mice, who gather food for the winter, Frederick collects other things — colour, light and hope. When the winter turns out to be harsher than expected and the supplies run out, Frederick uses what he gathered to help everyone make it through the winter. I believe that culture can do exactly that in the world. That’s what defines us as humans. Since the beginning of time, we’ve had the need to paint, to make music...
Also your family members play in the theatre. What are you like as a critic?
As an audience member, I’m very critical. The most important principle is that one plays with passion,
whether in the theatre in Eppan or Vienna. What truly matters is feeling that everyone on stage is driven by the passion to perform.
How is the prophet valued in his own country?
I‘ve made the experience that what I do abroad is met here with great appreciation. However, when I perform in South Tyrol, which I enjoy doing, there have also been some very critical reviews. And yet, I don’t see myself any different to a colleague who has stayed here in the country. Leaving and returning is not something that is taken for granted in South Tyrol. It is historically burdened. We carry this legacy with us, a collective feeling, even if we are not aware of it.
In April, you are going to perform in a political play. Is Gerti Drassl a political person?
We should all be political and engage with the conditions of life, society, the future and our responsibilities. This doesn’t have to mean in terms of party politics. To be political is to be human.
You are from Eppan, but live in Vienna: How important is home to you?
Home exists, but it is more family and people orientated. It’s also a connection to places that have a history, places that evoke a certain feeling, like the forest in the “Obere Gand” in Eppan, where we often went as children. In Vienna, it wasn’t so easy for me in the beginning. Such places had to be created first.
“I have to say that the idea of my life being followed scares me. I’d rather talk to people directly.”
Gerti Drassl, actress
At acting school you were told to set aside your South Tyrolean dia lect. But you always held on to it. I grew up with the dialect, but un like others, I have to say that ours isn’t so difficult to set aside. Even switching to standard German isn’t hard for me anymore and sometimes I don’t even notice it. In the past, my face would make the strangest expressions when I switched (laughs). The dialect serves as my starting point. You can feel a character or a role, but as soon as you open your mouth, you don’t even believe it yourself. Language is something very sensitive.
Some actors seek the spotlight, but not you?!
I don’t see the value of the profes sion in the spotlight. It illuminates the stage, the scene.
Gerti Drassl is an impressive and downto-earth personality.
One can’t find Gerti Drassl on social media. That’s correct. I’m one of the few in my profession and I’m met with a lot of incomprehension because of it. It’s even the case that certain positions are filled based on how many followers someone has. I have to say that the idea of my life being followed scares me. I’d rather talk to people directly.
So Gerti Drassl’s private life is truly private? It’s important for me to have a shield around it. My children haven’t chosen to become actors. They have the right to decide for themselves what they want to participate in.
How is Gerti Drassl unvarnished?
I try to be as honest as possible, not to pretend or appear how one might want to appear. I enjoy experiencing others as authentically as possible. I do enjoy wearing makeup (laughs), but wearing makeup doesn’t mean pretending to be someone you’re not.
First-hand
SelberGMOCHT (self-made) stands for true craftsmanship. For one-of-a-kind. For „not off the rack“. And all these handmade South Tyrolean products are sold in Eppan on two market days.
What do turned objects, landscape photos, a thumb piano and the music of Herbert Pixner have in common: they are part of Selber-GMOCHT
The Martini market
You can find felt slippers next to quill wallets, turned Swiss pine bowls and baby clothes, landscape photos, spicy Alpine cheese or beeswax candles.
“SelberGMOCHT stands for lovingly made products by creative people and artists, which we have in abundance in South Tyrol,” says initiator Thomas Grüner. And with SelberGMOCHT he created a platform in 2018 for those who, on their own, are usually too small to create and finance a big event.
What started as a virtual marketplace now has 300 members and a total of nine markets 9 market days within South Tyrol, two of which take place in St. Michael. „The markets are a special shop window for us,” says Grüner, because there the quality, the love for the product and the skilled competence becomes visible and can also be experienced first-hand. The markets in 2025 in fact will also focus on the production process itself. „Many people
nowadays have no idea how a shoe is made. And here one can expe rience that,” says Grüner enthu siastically. Furthermore one can watch the passionate dressmaker sew baby clothes, the felters, quill embroiderers, the pottery makers and the turners.
TIP
SelberGMOCHT-Market on 12.04 and 25.10 in St. Michael-Eppan.
The parish church of Girlan has its origins in the 13th century and is consecrated to Saint Martin of Tours. In his honour, every year (unless it’s a Sunday) the traditional Martini market takes place in Girlan. This festive day has been taking place for over 200 years and it fills the idyllic alleys of Girlan with numerous visitors, who enjoy autumnal delicacies at the market stalls, try on clothes or simply stroll. Many farmers also celebrate the successful conclusion of the harvest on this particular day.
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28 th November 2025 until 6 th January 2026
It’s the anticipation that steadily grows.
It’s the sparkle that slowly increases. It’s the magic that makes Advent in Eppan so inviting:
CHRISTMAS MARKET IN ST. MICHAEL WITH KIDSXMAS > 28.11 UNTIL 24.12
CRAFTS AND CRIBS AT THE DOME OF ST. PAULS CHRISTMAS IN GIRLAN
With heart and diligence
Eppan is rich in thriving family businesses. This is only possible if dedication and diligence are carried on through the generations. For the young generation it is most of all a matter of the heart.
The dream of a campsite
It was actually our father’s dream to run a campsite, however, from the first application in 1982 it took a long time. When we then received the opportunity, we decided together to start the whole project afresh in our name. Without our parents this wouldn’t have been possible.
Grey eminence
We work independently and our parents give us free rein. They trust us blindly. What is important in order to work together as a family is trust and most importantly respect.
Role allocation
We sisters take care of the reception area, the customer reception, the accounts and such. Our parents run their own business and don’t have a fixed role, nevertheless, our mother Marta has a hand for cleanliness and care and is the last to leave the campsite in the evening. Our father Ernst is responsible for the allocation and order at the campsite and full heartedly for guest relations. And as one has to be reachable 24/7 we take this in turns.
Recipe for success
All four of us are dedicated wholeheartedly. A lot of commitment, a lot of hard work and that we are all on the same page, is our recipe.
Disadvantage of a family business
There is only one disadvantage: even in our private lives, a lot revolves around our business
Inheritance
The thought that our parents one day won’t be with us anymore doesn’t scare us, because they taught us from the beginning how to work, what we should dare to do and where the boundaries are. They have shown us by example and we have gained a good understanding of everything. But the heart would be missing.
Eppan offers its guests
Eppan lies in the middle of paradise. Our guests have a big choice of bike and hiking tours to choose from along with plenty of indoor activities for rainy days. This ensures they never get bored, even over a longer period of time. And thanks to the surrounding hospitality they always return happy.
Name Age Business Employment Staff
Felix and Hannah Psenner 35, 25 Girlanerhof, Frangart since 2017 25-30
The notorious footsteps
Working in our business wasn’t new to us, as we often helped out during the summer months. However, we always did this on a voluntary basis. Our mother comes from the hotel industry and didn’t always have a choice. That’s why she gave us the freedom to decide for ourselves.
First insights
During the season, it’s a challenging and sometimes stressful job, but the strong family bond makes many things easier.
24 hours with the family
Well, we don’t really have the same working hours, as we take it in turns. A good relationship is of course crucial – and that‘s what we have.
Advantages and disadvantages of a multi-generational house
The trust one has in a family member can’t be replaced by anything else. On the other hand, greater flexibility is demanded, as one is expected to step in when somebody is missing. The expectations one has of a family member wouldn’t be required in the same way from an employee.
Changes through the young ones
New minds bring new ideas. Additionally, the fields of technology and the internet are evolving rapidly, unlike other areas of change. Therefore, it is important not to remain stuck in old habits. In contrast, our mother brings a lot of experience and much composure to the business.
Recipe for success
We are a very familial business, timeless and stylish. We have grown, but not so much that one could get lost. This is what our regular guests appreciate the most. In addition, they are always greeted by familiar faces, which delights them as much as it does us..
First memories
I was always excited when my dad asked me to stamp the lottery tickets for the Christmas Lottery „Großes Los im Überetsch“. And I was always fascinated by how the glasses were ground in the workshop.
Notorious footsteps
I was able to make my own decisions, but I knew from an early age that I wanted to join the business. The detailed work in the workshop has inspired me since I was a child.
Generational change
For me, it’s about growing into the business. My grandfather Egon runs the branch in Terlan, while my father Andreas and I work at the shop in Eppan. It’s a skilled trade and currently I’m training to become a master craftsman.
The junior’s ideas Digitalisation and online presence are topics that many small businesses still aren’t focusing on. I’m working to ensure that our good reputation is reflected also on online platforms. With our new app, customer contact will be even more direct, and communication through WhatsApp will be made as simple as possible.
The senior’s advantage On the one hand there’s the experience and on the other hand the existing customer relationships. I’m in the process of building connections with our regular customers as well. However, it still happens that a customer says: ‘I’ll wait for the senior.′ (laughs)
Recipe for success
What sets us apart is that we still craft the glasses ourselves. From the very first measurement and consultation to the final production, the customer is looked after by the same person. In this way we can ensure a fast service and our error rate is close to zero.
Name Age Business Employment Staff Greta and Elisa Spitaler 20, 25 Hotel Frangart since 2022/2023 11
Generational house
It’s something special to be born into a family business and a privilege to be able to continue it. Our grandparents Maria and Josef and our parents Veronika and Werner built and successfully managed something meaningful. We aim to carry this forward and maybe make it even better. It was clear that we would join the business as we trained in the gastronomic hospitality, but it wasn’t obligatory. It’s wonderful that our parents are still here and we aren’t thrown into the deep end. They are here to support us with advice and guidance.
Notorious footsteps
Through our many regular guests the bar is naturally set very high. We try to take our guests with us on our journey of change, so that they also feel comfortable with the adjustments.
Childhood memories
As we grew up in the hotel we often played with the children of the guests. We were genuinely excited when they came back. And as the hotel is closed in winter, family time was especially important during that period. Even though our parents always made time for us.
Advantages of the „old ones“
We greatly value our parents‘ decades of experience. That they stay calm during difficult times and focus on finding solutions. There is still much to learn from them.
Ideas of the young ones
We’re bringing fresh energy to the hotel, the online presence and social media to attract a new generation of guests. After all, our regular guests aren’t getting any younger.
Recipe for success
The personal interaction with our guests is essential. The atmosphere of a small business naturally makes guests feel at home quite quickly.
„The muse is on our side”
C for Culture
A for Art
K for Kainrath
A short interview with an illustrator about his family and their life marked by creative artistry.
Rainer Kainrath (87): „The line is the origin of a drawing. Nothing is as expressive as the line. You cannot reduce it any further, but the art of drawing lies in leaving things out.“
Born in 1938 while passing through Braunschweig and raised in Innsbruck, Rainer moved to South Tyrol in 1960, where he worked as an architect and graphic artist. He’s a passionate illustrator and attended painting and drawing courses, but considers himself a self-taught artist.
How is it that artistic talent seems to run in the Kainrath family’s veins?
Rainer Kainrath, architect and illustrator: The Muse is favourable to us. It could be that it’s in our genes. My grandfather Karl already had a knack for drawing and caricatures and my father Ernst had the rare talent of being able to write simultaneously with both hands—even in mirror writing. He encouraged us to draw. My brother Dietmar was more successful than I was, working as the personal illustrator for Red Bull boss Mateschitz. I draw because it brings me joy—and, fortunately, I never had to make a living from it.
You are fascinated by the straight line, yet you prefer to draw curves?!
Because it’s much easier to draw a curve. Just look at a wine glass or the feminine curves. Even a circle is very fascinating. However, I’ve only managed to draw the perfect circle once.
Apart from wine and women, humour seems to be very important to you?!
Of course. People should laugh whilst looking at my work. And nothing works without wine anyway (uncorks and serves a Weißburgunder Plötzner). It’s always hard work. Leaving things out is the hardest part.
Also as an architect you used to draw by hand … Yes, I always designed by hand on paper and then traced it with an ink pen. Nowadays, everyone works on the computer using the same programmes. And all the designs look the same. I gave up architecture –I don’t even have a drawing table anymore. But drawing will accompany me until the very end.
Thoughts on your artistic legacy?
When you die, it would be best to burn everything. Future generations only criticise it anyway. Critics determine the art market, the price, the significance. Any yet, I see little meaning in today’s art. In my eyes, some of it may be pure charlatanry. The purpose of art is to serve beauty.
Does that also apply to music? Your son Peter Paul is very successful in the contemporary scene.
I have my difficulties with contemporary styles. I’ve listened to it. Some of it just sounds like noise to me. I prefer classical music.
Your grandson Julian is on his way to the violinist’s Olympus. What does it take to be successful in the cultural world?
A good critic (laughs). And an unrelenting will to put everything else aside. You have to want it for yourself. Julian is on a journey of discovery and already faces huge competition that he’s willingly taking on. Thankfully, everyone in our family does things voluntarily.
What is family life like for cultural globetrotters?
Very turbulent. Peter Paul recently flew from China to Italy, then to Belgium to have sushi with his son in Brussels and then to Austria. His wife came to Vienna to meet him there. But at Christmas, we all come together here at home.
Peter Paul Kainrath (61): „Music competitions must constantly reassess the attitude with which they approach the young talents who place their trust in them (…) At the Busoni Competition, I will remain committed to protecting young talents as much as possible from national instrumentalisation.“
Born in 1964 in Bozen, Peter Paul Kainrath is a former concert pianist, publicist and stage director.
Today he is the director of the TRANSART Festival for contemporary culture, head of the Ferruccio Busoni International Piano Competition and artistic director of the Klangforum Wien festival for contemporary music. In 2024, he was confirmed as President of the World Federation of International Music Competitions (WFIMC).
Julian Kainrath (20): „I am always amazed by how many colours I can create with this instrument and the depth of sound I can achieve. Other than that, I can only say: My violin is very French.“
Born in 2005 in Meran and raised in Eppan, Julian developed a passion for classical opera at the age of four, often belting out his favourite aria, “La donna è mobile” by Giuseppe Verdi. He began studying the violin at the age of eight, first in Vienna, then in Graz and currently in Belgium. At just ten years old, he made his debut as a soloist in Bolivia. Numerous concerts and prizes followed, including the Walther von der Vogelweide Youth Award in 2024, recognizing him as an „absolute prodigy.“
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Events 2025 in Eppan Summer
Spring
SELBERGMOCHT-MARKET
Centre St. Michael
SA, 12th April
EPPAN EASTER FESTIVAL
Town hall square, St. Michael
SA, 19th April
EPPAN FLOWER DAYS
Eppan
TUE, 1st - WED, 30th April
EPPAN MOTHER‘S DAY CONCERT
Montiggl Village
SA, 10th May
EPPAN CASTLE FESTIVAL
Hocheppan Castle & Boymont Castle
SO, 25th May
VINALTUM
Freudenstein Castle
SU, 25th - MO, 26th May
EPPAN HUMOR
Eppan
SA, 10th May - FR, 6th June
MUSIC NIGHTS
Eppan
May - September
WINE CELLAR NIGHTS
Eppan
FR, 13th June
GSCHLEIER WINETASTING
Girlan
SA, 5th July
LONG WEDNESDAY
St. Michael
every Wednesday in July - August
OPENING WINECULTUREWEEKS & WINE PROMENADE & WINEWALK
St. Pauls
FR, 18th July
GREAT GOURMET EVENT
St. Pauls
TUE, 22nd July
PATRONAL FEAST
Hocheppan Castle
TUE, 22nd July
PAULS ROSÈ & KNÖDEL EVENING
St. Pauls
FR, 1st August
WINESUMMER
Girlan
FR, 22nd August
Autumn
ROMANESQUE DAYS
Hocheppan Castle
SA, 11th and SU, 12th October
LAST GRAPE LOAD
Girlan
SA, 11th October
CASTELMUSIKA
Berg
SU, 19th October
WINESOUND
Freudenstein Castle, Eppan
THU, 23rd October 2025
SELBERGMOCHT-MARKET
St. Michael
SA, 25th October
THE MARTINI MARKET
Girlan
TUE, 11th November
Winter
EPPAN ADVENT
St. Pauls/St. Michael/Girlan
28th November - 6th January 2026
NIKOLAUS PROCESSION
St. Michael
SA, 6th December
CHRISTMASS MARKET
St. Michael
28th November - 24th December
KIDS-XMAS IN ST. MICHAEL
St. Michael December
CRIPS AT THE CATHEDRAL
St. Pauls
28th November - 6th January 2026
CHRISTMAS IN GIRLAN
Girlan
28th November - 6th January 2026
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Wine & Culture Weekly program
Tuesday
Art Park Hochfrangart
Tuesday
A tasty rustic treat: Schlutzkrapfen
Together with our farmer Ricky, we attend the weekly farmers’ market to procure seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. Using these, we prepare the traditional South Tyrolean specialty–Schlutzkrapfen (semi-circular stuffed pasta)–which we then savour alongside a fine glass of Eppan wine.
Experience an exclusive visit to the enchanted private sculpture park high above Frangart/Eppan. Enjoy the breath-taking view and get comfortable with a glass of Pfefferer from the winery Schreckbichl. Look forward to the viewing point right next to the enormous sphere and let yourself be enchanted by art and nature.
Adventure & Enjoyment
Our bike offer
Tuesday & Wednesday
Bike riding technique training –Level 1 & 2.
The Eppan Bike paradise offers the ideal surroundings for discovering the basics of mountainbiking with our trained bike guide. Here you will learn how to ride hairpin bends, keep your balance, overcome obstacles and use the correct brake technique. After the training the learnt techniques will be consolidated with a small ride through the forest. This programme is ideal for both E-Bikes and Mountain bikes and promises an unforgettable experience in nature. In addition at the same on Wednesday a training with difficulty Level 2 is offered where experienced cyclists can improve their skills.
Thursday
Mountain bike | E-Bike Tour
Stefan, our trained bike guide, is looking forward to exploring the charming landscape in and around Eppan with you. Regardless of whether you are a beginner or an experienced cyclist we offer varied paths and beautiful viewpoints which have something to offer for everyone. The level of difficulty is adapted individually to the participants so that everyone gets their money’s worth. If you don’t have your own bike then you can get information about bike rentals at the tourist office in Eppan. The local bike rentals make sure that you are well equipped and that you can experience an unforgettable day on the bike.
Tuesday
Art-historical guided church tour in St. Pauls
Experience the fascinating history and architecture of the parish church in St. Pauls, also known as the „cathedral in the country“, with a competent guided tour. Admire the elaborate details and find out more about the importance of this historical building for the region. Afterwards you have the possibility to climb up the tower and enjoy a breathtaking view of the picturesque landscape. An unforgettable experience, which combines culture and history in a wonderful way.
Wednesday
Girlan’s underworld Girlan’s cellars are indeed a unique and impressive ensemble of subterranean corridors and rooms, not to be found anywhere else in Europe. Together with our expert you can discover the fascinating historical cellars and find out more about their history and importance. At the end of the tour a small wine tasting session awaits you, where you can try the delicious wines from the region accompanied by a traditional afternoon snack. Let yourself be enchanted by the unique experience and immerse yourself in the fascinating world of the Girlan underworld.
Thursday
Alleys – Wine estates – Cellars
Experience a guided foray through the historical wine village St. Pauls whilst receiving insights into history, architecure, wine culture and daily life. Our competent knowledgeable guide will introduce you to the rich history of the village and show you the architectonic treasures whih St. Pauls has to offer. Immerse yourself into the atmosphere of this charming village and let its beauty enchant you. At the end we will mull over the acquired impressions over a glass of wine from the renowned winery St. Pauls. Here you will have the possibility to try some of the exquisite wines of the region and to find out more about the art of growing wine.
Friday
Vineyards – Castles - Manors
The guided expert hike through Eppan’s picturesque vineyards offers the possibility to receive unique historical insights into private castles and manors. Our competent guide will provide interesting facts about the history and architecture of the various buildings whilst you walk through the breath-taking landscape. After the exciting discovery tour you will have the possibility to relax with a glass of wine from Eppan. Experience an unforgettable journey through the history and culture of Eppan whilst enjoying the beauty of the surrounding vineyards. This guided expert hike is ideal for wine lovers and history enthusiasts, who would like to gain a unique perspective of this fascinating region.
Friday
Wine coach ride
Enjoy a picturesque coach ride through the breathtaking landscape of Eppan whilst admiring the beauty of the vineyards and orchards. The mellow hills and the clear sunny weather make this area a perfect place for a relaxing coach ride. On the road we will stop off at a local wine producer where you will have the possibility to take part in a small wine tasting session.
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On the go, completely relaxed!
Effortless, casual, but not aimless: With the South Tyrol Guest Pass, you can explore Eppan and the entire surrounding area.
and cable-car.
Visitors who stay overnight in Eppan receive the South Tyrol Guest Pass. What does this give them access to?
Evelyn Falser, President of the Eppan Tourism Association: The participating accomodations in Eppan also in 2025 offer the standardized guest card, the South Tyrol Guest Pass. It is provided in digital form. With this pass, guests can use public transport to explore Eppan and all of South Tyrol.
Why should guests use public transport?
Vacation means relaxing – not having to think and, for once, not having to use the car. Personally, I enjoy not having to sit in traffic, search for a parking spot, or pay for it when I want to undertake and explore things. Additionally, „sustainability“ is preached everywhere these days – but with this pass, it becomes a reality.
How well does public transport work?
We often hear that guests are amazed at how smoothly public mobility works in South Tyrol. You can quite literally reach even the most remote corners. As the South Tyrol Guest Pass is valid from 00:00 on the day of arrival until 23:59 on the day of departure, one can even go on holiday without a car.
SÜDTIROLMOBIL INCLUDES
› Regional and Regional Express Trains (R, RV & RE) within South Tyrol and to Trento:
› Brenner Line: Brenner–Bozen–Trento
› Vinschgau Railway: Mals–Meran
› Meran Line: Meran–Bozen
› Pustertal Railway: Franzensfeste–Innichen/Vierschach
› Local buses: city buses, town buses and regional buses
› Cable cars: to Ritten, Kohlern, Vöran and Mölten
› The Ritten tram and the Mendel Funicular
› The ticket can also be used for the PostAuto Switzerland service between Mals and Müstair as well as the VVT regional buses on routes 273 (section Mals–Pfunds/ Kajetansbrücke) and 335 (Moos in Passeier–Obergurgl)
GOOD TO KNOW
THE SOUTH TYROL GUEST PASS:
› is automatically sent to the guest via email at check-in or pre-check-in, including the guest’s name and length of stay
› is linked to the holiday accommodation
› is valid from 00:00 on the day of arrival until 23:59 on the day of departure
› is issued exclusively to overnight guests aged 6 and above
› is not intended for resale
› must be validated before each ride
NOT INCLUDED
› Nightliner
› Long-distance trains (for example Railjet, Frecciarossa, Italo, Eurocity, Intercity)
› Alpine lines: Seiser Alm (Lines 10, 11, 12) and Lines 439, 442, 444 in the summer
ANIMAL/BIKE TRANSPORT
› Dog-/Animal transport: A separate ticket is needed when bringing an animal. A muzzle is mandatory! Guide dogs for the blind and small animals that can be carried in the arms do not require a ticket.
› Bicycle transport: A bike day ticket is required for transporting bikes. Bike transport is limited on regional trains and on buses equipped with bike racks.
The South Tyrol Guest Pass makes it easy to explore South Tyrol by bus, train
Evelyn Falser President Tourist Association Eppan
Scan me!
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TOURIST ASSOCIATION EPPAN Bahnhofstraße 7 39057 St. Michael | Eppan on the Wine Road T +39 0471 66 22 06
info@eppan.com eppan.com
