Natz-Schabs: Apple Trails, Nature and Törggelen

In Natz-Schabs, the Apple Trail leads through pine forests, orchards, meadows, biotopes and chestnut groves. The Raier Moos and seasonal apple blossom add a different natural highlight. When planning your trip, it is worth considering the different attractions: trails, nature, culture and regional cuisine each offer their own points of interest. The playground in Raas adds a specific family destination to the options.

Apple Trails and Hiking

The Apple Trail runs for 7.7 kilometres from Naz to Raas and back. Along the way, pine forests, orchards, meadows, biotopes and chestnut groves alternate. Information boards along the trail provide information about apple growing in South Tyrol. The route thus connects different landscape features with a clear theme: the boards focus on fruit growing.

The circular route Across the Biotopes of the Natz-Schabs Apple Plateau is 9.4 kilometres long and takes about 2 hours and 32 minutes. It is longer than the 7.7-kilometre Apple Trail. For planning purposes, the circular route also provides an approximate duration; this is a guide, not an exact time.

Natz-Schabs also has quiet, car-free walking and hiking trails that are accessible with a stroller. The Rienz Gorge can be crossed from Naz-Sciaves via two bridges: the Rienza Bridge near Naz and the Rundl Bridge near Schabs. After unusual weather, check the condition of the bridges locally.

Raier Moos and Apple Blossom

The Raier Moos is a protected habitat for endangered plants and animals. Between late March and early May, thousands of apple trees blossom in Naz-Sciaves, depending on the weather and temperatures. The exact timing varies from year to year. If you would like to experience the blossom, take this weather dependency into account when planning your trip.

Museum and History

The guided tour at the Natz-Schabs Mineral Museum includes a presentation on the origins and history of minerals in the European Alps, a guided tour of the private collection of 1,500 minerals, and a visit to a crystal cave. Programme details may change. The tour therefore combines information about origins and history with a visit to the collection and the crystal cave.

The parish of Natz probably originated as early as the Carolingian period, in the 9th century.

Playground in Raas

The Apfelgarten playground in Raas features a five-metre-high wooden apple, a large water and mud area, a trampoline and swings shaped like wooden animals. The apple theme gives the playground a distinctive connection to its surroundings; the water and mud area, trampoline and swings provide a variety of play areas.

Apple Festival and Törggelen

The Apple Festival programme includes a parade featuring a crown made from 3,000 apples, a tasting of freshly harvested apples and a farmers’ market with handcrafted products. Individual elements may vary. If a particular event is important to you, check the current festival programme.

Törggelen is seasonal: inns and taverns in Natz-Schabs serve homemade Törggelen dishes made with local ingredients and their own wine. Participating establishments and menus may change. Therefore, check in advance what is on offer during your travel dates.

Discover more destinations: Klausen, Lajen, Mühlbach, Barbian, Villanders, Feldthurns, Meransen, Brixen.

For the wider travel overview: Eisack Valley.