The gardens feature a 'Forbidden Garden' section dedicated to plants that were once considered taboo or toxic.
Empress Elisabeth of Austria, known as Sisi, stayed at the castle during the winter seasons of 1870 and 1889.
The park contains a geological mosaic section displaying various rock types found throughout South Tyrol.
A specialized 'South Tyrol Landscape' section mimics the local vegetation zones ranging from riverine forests to alpine meadows.
The garden uses a sophisticated irrigation system that draws water from the natural runoff of the surrounding mountains.
The Touriseum building features a rotating collection of artifacts related to the development of Alpine travel.
Trauttmansdorff Gardens are situated on a natural amphitheater spanning 12 hectares with an elevation difference of 100 meters. The park is divided into four distinct themed areas: Sun Gardens, Water and Terraced Gardens, Forests of the World, and Landscapes of South Tyrol. It surrounds the historic Trauttmansdorff Castle, which houses the Touriseum, a regional museum dedicated to the history of tourism in the Alps. The site hosts over 80 garden landscapes featuring diverse botanical specimens from across the globe. It is strategically positioned on the slopes above Merano, providing panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountain ranges. The botanical collection is supported by a Mediterranean climate influenced by the nearby Adige Valley. The gardens were awarded the International Garden of the Year in 2013.
The 'Matteo Thun' viewing platform, which cantilevers over the gardens for a full panoramic vista.
Wear comfortable walking shoes as the garden is built on a steep incline.
Use the map provided at the entrance to navigate the elevation changes efficiently.
Dedicate time to explore the Touriseum, as it provides essential context for the region's history.
Trying to see the entire site in under two hours, as the vertical layout requires a slow pace.
Open seasonally from April to November; closed during the winter months.
Stay on marked paths to protect the delicate botanical collections; pets are not permitted.
