Three Castles Walk in Appiano

Our starting point is the small village of Missiano (Missian) in the municipality of Appiano. Having reached the car parking space underneath Castel Corba, we start our hiking tour on an asphalted street. Very soon we can see two of the castles on our tour: first Castel Corba (Schloss Korb) and than Castel Boymont (Schloss Boymont), which lies a little further above in the woods. Later on, the trail leads us along vineyards and fruit orchards, presenting wonderful views to the valley and the city of Bolzano. Soon afterwards we reach a farm, which we simply cross, staying on the asphalted street. At the beginning of the wood we follow trail no. 12 until the "Burgenweg".

Having gained height on a small steep track the trail goes on on a series of serpentines until we finally reach the Chalk Tower (Kreideturm). We pass the tower, keep to the left and continue until we reach an asphalted forest street which will finally lead us to Appiano Castle (Burg Hocheppan). Before the trail gets steeper we decide to stop and drink some water we brought with us in our rucksacks. Continuing our hiking, we soon arrive at our first destination. A breathtaking view to the valley and the town of Bolzano is welcoming us here! Having taken some fotos, we decide to explore the inside of the castle. Passing a small bridge we reach the castle's gate and enter the courtyard. In the castle's tavern we treat ourselves with some refreshing drinks.

Then it's time to walk towards Castel Boymont, passing some horses and pigs who are looking at us half asleep. We follow the track downwards to a gorge where we take some steps and cross a little bridge before we walk upwards again to reach the other side where we can once again enjoy the great view to the castle and its chapel. We continue our hike through the wood (no. 14), finally arriving at our next destination, Castel Boymont. Starting our way back we take the same trail on which we came to Castel Boymont. After a few metres we turn into the trail that leads us back to Castel Corba. This hiking tour is particularly recommendable in spring and autumn and suitable for families since castles and their courtyards are great playgrounds for children who like adventures.

Author: ED