Sissi's Path

This scenic route, known as the Sentiero di Sissi in Italian and the Sissiweg in German, leads to the areas of town most beloved by Empress Elisabeth of Austria, better known as Sissi. The charming Habsburg sovereign stayed in Merano several times in the second half of the nineteenth century, and was enchanted by its charm. This path dedicated to her connects the Gardens of Trauttmansdorff Castle with the city centre; it passes through eleven stages along the way, each with a story to tell. From the castle that majestically dominates the botanical gardens, Sissi’s Path winds its way past Pienzenau and Rubein Castles, the Reichenbach Residence, Piazza Fontana (Brunnenplatz), Rottenstein Castle, and the Bavaria Hotel; it then continues down to the river, crosses the Roman Bridge, skirts the Wandelhalle and finally pays homage to the empress in the park dedicated to her. The park is on the edge of the Summer Promenade and there is a statue erected in Sissi’s honour. Obviously, the trail can be followed in either direction.

Route description
The Sissi Path is generally accessible to wheelchairs and strollers, but it does have an overall elevation change of about 90 metres. For this reason, it is recommended to take the path from the Gardens of Trauttmansdorff Castle down towards Merano, in order to have a predominantly downhill route. The tour is well-suited for older individuals and families with children. On the promenades and Brunnenplatz square, there are some benches where you can pause and rest.There is no tactile guidance system or other aids for the blind on this tour.

Informations about the tour
Duration: 0:56 h
Length: 3.2 km
Difficulty: easy
Difference in height uphill: 109 hm
Difference in height downhill: 46 hm
Highest point: 395 m