The hike along the Element Trails of Gais leads towards Einsberg, passing through Mitterberg, an itinerary that combines nature, culture, and reflection. The four elements – earth, water, air, and fire – accompany hikers along seven themed routes, each with its own character: from circular family-friendly walks with play stations to more demanding trails winding above the rooftops of the villages. Along the way, information panels illustrate the influence of the elements on people, nature, and the cultural landscape, explaining their meaning in both history and the present.
The route from Gais to Kehlburg Castle, passing through Fuchslahne and continuing to Villa Ottone, is of medium difficulty and requires good physical condition and endurance. Starting from the village square, the trail follows Pitzinger Street southeast, crossing the wide alluvial fan of Gais. The path climbs steadily through the forest, with Kehlburg Castle towering on the left side of the hill. After circling the castle hill, hikers reach the farms of Stocker and Lanzen im Fiecht, located at a similar altitude. The landscape alternates between well-tended woods and meadows, with gentle ascents and descents that eventually lead to Villa Ottone, where the hike concludes.
To reach the starting point, public transport can be used from the Mobility Center in Brunico, taking bus line 450 to Gais, village stop.
