Best canyons around Hafling - Avelengo are characterized by dramatic natural formations, often taking the form of gorges or ravine-like areas carved by water. This high plateau, nestled between Bolzano and Merano, offers expansive views and diverse hiking opportunities. The region features unique geological formations where streams and rivers have cut through rock, creating intimate and scenic natural experiences. These areas provide a distinct contrast to the alpine meadows and forests, offering visitors a chance to explore wilder landscapes.
Last updated: June 29, 2026
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Just a few minutes' walk from the center of Lana, a completely different world opens up: the Gaul Gorge at the foot of the castle hill of Braunsberg Castle. Steep rocky slopes rise up on both sides, the river Falschauer babbles over the stony stream bed and even in midsummer the temperatures between the cool rock walls are pleasantly cool. Completely different types of rock come together here: between the quartz porphyry and the primary rock of the Old Gneisse, there is also a narrow strip of granite. Only a narrow strip of land between the massive rocks leads over the unspoiled mountain stream. From the Gaulwiese, a well-secured path leads over suspension bridges, past a roaring waterfall, further into the wildly romantic and increasingly narrow gorge; or up to Braunsberg Castle with a beautiful view over Lana.
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Great path along the rock formations on the Marlinger Waalweg
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The Marlinger Waalweg is very beautiful, partly naturally along the rock
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The Gilfklamm leads past the Zenoburg to the Garden of Animals
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The path winds gently along the rushing Passer River up the steep slope to the wild and romantic Gilf Gorge. At the foot of the imposing Zenoburg Castle, there is a spectacular view of the roaring waters of the gorge, which is only a few metres wide and was formed as a result of thousands of years of erosion. A few metres above the Gilf Gorge, the promenade flows into the well-known Tappeiner Trail.
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The first part of the Marlinger Waal winds around the steep rocky landscape. Sometimes you have to lean well to the side so that you don't hit something.
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Very nice walk, children also have fun here.
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The path leads us over two suspension bridges to the end of the part of the Gaul Gorge that is open to visitors.
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Visitors frequently enjoy the Suspension Bridges of Gaulschlucht, which make the gorge easily accessible. Another highly regarded spot is the Gaul Gorge in Lana, known for its dramatic rocky backdrop and unique vegetation. The Fragsburg Waterfall (Cascata del Rio Sinigo) is also a natural spectacle that draws many visitors.
Yes, several areas are well-suited for families. The Suspension Bridges of Gaulschlucht are noted as being accessible for everyone, including small children and prams. The Gilf Promenade is also ideal for a walk with children, and while it has a few steps, it is largely stroller-friendly. The waterfall path along the Sinichbach stream near Avelengo Dorf is another excellent option for a scenic and relatively easy family walk.
The region's gorges and ravine-like areas showcase dramatic natural formations carved by water. You'll encounter impressive waterfalls like the Fragsburg Waterfall, steep rocky slopes, unique vegetation, and the powerful flow of rivers such as the Passer in the Gilf Gorge (Gilfklamm). The Gaulschlucht, for instance, is notable for the convergence of different rock types, including quartz porphyry and granite.
The gorges and waterfall paths are generally pleasant to visit from spring through autumn. During summer, areas like the Gaul Gorge offer cool, shaded walks within their rock walls, providing a refreshing escape from the heat. The natural spectacle of waterfalls is often most impressive during periods of higher water flow, such as spring after snowmelt or after rainfall.
Absolutely. The Gilf Promenade features a rustic viewing platform overlooking the Passer river. The Suspension Bridges of Gaulschlucht offer unique perspectives into the gorge and towards the waterfall. The waterfall path along the Sinichbach stream also includes a viewing platform for the waterfall itself, and a bridge crossing the gorge provides an immersive experience.
The difficulty varies. Some paths, like the Suspension Bridges of Gaulschlucht and the Gilf Promenade, are considered easy and accessible for most visitors, including families. Other areas, such as the Gilf Gorge (Gilfklamm), are rated as intermediate. The trail to the Fragsburg Waterfall is considered challenging in parts.
Beyond exploring the gorges, the region offers diverse outdoor activities. You can find numerous cycling routes, including difficult touring bicycle loops like the Leadner Alm – Vöraner Alm loop, and challenging road cycling routes such as the Haflingerstraße Plateau. For hikers, there are mountain hikes ranging from moderate to difficult, including routes around Meran 2000. You can explore more options on the Cycling around Hafling - Avelengo, Mountain Hikes around Hafling - Avelengo, and Road Cycling Routes around Hafling - Avelengo guide pages.
While the gorges themselves are natural wonders, the Gaul Gorge in Lana is notably situated at the foot of Braunsberg Castle, adding a picturesque historical backdrop to the natural scenery. The broader Hafling - Avelengo region is rich in alpine culture and history, with traditional villages and pastures.
Visitors particularly appreciate the dramatic natural beauty and the immersive experience of being surrounded by nature. The sound of rushing water, the refreshing mist from waterfalls, and the unique geological formations are frequently highlighted. Many enjoy the accessibility of some gorge paths, making them suitable for families, and the contrast these wilder landscapes offer compared to the region's expansive alpine meadows.
In some parts of the Gaulschlucht, a well-secured path allows for direct access to the Falschauer river. However, for the Fragsburg Waterfall, while there used to be direct access, official signs now advise against going down to the waterfall itself to protect the natural environment.
The Gaulschlucht is located a short distance from Hafling - Avelengo, near the center of Lana. It is easily accessible by car or public transport from the Hafling - Avelengo area, typically a short drive down towards the valley floor.


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