The hike to the Altrasen castle ruins is a short yet impressive tour with a historical background above Niederrasen. The path leads through a quiet forest up to the remains of a once significant castle complex located on the eastern slope of the Antholz Valley.
After a short ascent, a narrow trail branches off from the main path and climbs more steeply up to the ruins. Once at the top, you are rewarded with beautiful views over Niederrasen and the valley.
The Altrasen castle ruins have a long history: in the 13th century, they belonged to the territory of the Counts of Gorizia in the Puster Valley and served as a seat of high jurisdiction. After the castle fell into decline in the 17th century, the Barons of Welsberg built a new courthouse in the valley, which today serves as the parish house.
This tour is ideal for those who want to combine a short hike with a cultural experience.
The starting point is the church in Niederrasen. From there, follow trail no. 20 for about 500 metres towards Oberstall.
At the edge of the forest, the path to the Altrasen ruins branches off to the right. This narrow and partly steep trail leads through the forest up to the castle ruins.
Return along the same route to Niederrasen.
From the Pustertal road, turn into the Antholz Valley and drive to Niederrasen.
