Family hike to the Sacred Three Fountains of Trafoi

For our family getaway with two small kids today we decided to walk to the Tre Fontane Sacre (Sacred Three Fountains, Heilige Drei Brunnen) in Trafoi. It is considered an easy walk and there is also a special playground for kids. Alone the way to Trafoi is a highlight on this beautiful summer day. The starting point of our walk is the "naturatrafoi" visitor centre, located behind the Hotel Bella Vista, the birthplace of Gustav Thöni, a local skiing legend. One child in the baby carrier on the back (1 year), the other (3 years) on foot, this is how we start our tour.

Moreover we brought a packed lunch, toys and of course also warm clothes, as we are at about 1,400-1,500 m a.s.l. and it might get quite cool. Past the parish church, mountain meadows up to a parking space, we keep following the signpost no. 18. We proceed across a forest, until we reach a barrack. Nearby there is a map of the Stelvio National Park as well as signposts. On the right the path leads to a deer reserve, the path on the left leads to a church. By taking this path, we reach a barbecue area in the forest, equipped with benches and fountain as well as an extended area for a picnic. The kids run and play, while we enjoy the warming sun-rays and our well-deserved break. Due to the fact that it is a protected area, please take your waste. On the edge of the barbecue area, we see a bridge that traverses the Rio Madaccio brook, and a church in the background.

According to legends, a miracle happened in this place. The wooden prosthesis at the church portal tell about miracle healing. Next to the church, there is the so-called Brunnenhaus, in which the legend of the Sacred Three Fountains can be looked up. There is also a little chapel as well as toilets. The fountains, a panorama with waterfalls and the north-west flank of the Ortles Alps makes this place a fascinating destination. We take the same path for our way back. If you have still enough time, we recommend you a visit to the "naturatrafoi" visitor centre. As an alternative you can continue by car on the main road and follow the indication "Hl. Drei Brunnen". You reach a parking space in the forest, from where only five minutes are left to be walked.

Author: MS