The largest nature park in terms of area with its variety of species and 400 kilometres of hiking paths, vibrant forest and green meadows is a highlight in itself. There are still lots of other destinations of an entirely different nature to aim for, from historical spots and pilgrimage sites to testaments to the earth's history eternalised in stone. A Farm Holiday in Trudner Horn Nature Park promises a variety of experiences.

Understanding nature
The inhabitants of the area around the Nature Park exude a noticeable feel for nature and tradition, which they would like to convey to guests. The 'Alte Mühle', or 'Old Mill', in Truden was converted into a visitors' centre where people can learn about the flora and fauna of the area as well as old traditions and handiwork in the rural mountain world. However, its main purpose is to teach children how to treat nature well.

'South Tyrol's Grand Canyon'
A trip to Bletterbachschlucht gorge at the foot of the Weißhorn mountain is a similarly interesting attraction for the whole family. The 'Grand Canyon of South Tyrol' was made a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site in 2009 and is around eight kilometres long and 400 deep. It is primarily interesting for geologists, as its layers of rock laid bare thanks to the passage of water shed light on the history of the earth over the past 260 million years. But there's lots to wonder at for non-experts and younger visitors: numerous fossils of molluscs, snails and even dinosaurs were discovered in the gorge, which are now on display in GEOmuseum in Radein. Maybe there are still fossils in the gorge waiting to be discovered?

Pilgrimage in the mountains
If you are looking for a contemplative experience intead of adventure, then the pilgrim trail from Aldein to the monastery of Maria Weißenstein is just the thing for you. The original chapel was built in 1553 by a mountain farmer, Leonhard Weißensteiner, it is said, after the Virgin Mary appeared to him and cured him of his disease. The monks of the Servite Order now live in the Baroque building, which goes back to 1654.  The paths involving 14 Stations of the Cross leads through tranquil mixed woodland and across extensive larch meadows past traditional farmsteads. Thanks to its gentle ascent and walking time of around two hours, this pilgrim trail is recommended for families with small children.

Historical sites in the Nature Park
Being based at a holiday flat or room in Trudner Horn Nature Park gives guests the chance to find out more about the history of the area.  For those interested in history, it's worth cycling to San Lugano Pass to have a look at the former Austrian military posts there. The trenches are relicts of the First World War, which is explained at information boards found there. For amateur historians and sports fans, a tour to the primitive settlement just a few kilometres away at Altrei comes highly recommended. However, it is the history of everyday life that may be felt in every village around the Nature Park and viewed in an authentic manner by visitors. Whether it's the old lime kilns in Altrei and Truden, the functioning elevator mill in the visitors' centre or celebrations such as the 'Almabtrieb', when cattle are driven down from the mountain pastures, or village fetes: tradition is incorporated into everyday life in the mountain villages around Trudner Horn and every day life is what feeds this tradition.

Why you should take a Farm Holiday in the area around Trudner Horn Nature Park:

• 400 kilometres of hiking paths and a climbing wall
• Impressive: Bletterbachschlucht, or 'South Tyrol's Grand Canyon'
• Kneipp routes in Altrei and Truden