This short hike starts from the main square of Colle Isarco and leads to the fascinating ruins of Castel Strada (Straßberg), an ancient medieval fortress overlooking the Brenner valley. The route is easy and suitable for families, perfect for a relaxing walk with a touch of history.
Built around 1200 on a hill near Novale along the old Brenner road, the castle was once equipped with drawbridges and strong defensive walls. Today, visitors can still see the entrance gate, sections of the walls with battlements, the guard tower and the rectangular keep. Over the centuries, the fortress belonged to several noble families, including the famous mercenary leader Georg von Frundsberg. The ruins are privately owned and can only be visited from the outside.
Route
From the center of Colle Isarco, walk north and turn right into the postal alley. The road climbs gently eastwards, passing the Hotel Gudrun. After the motorway underpass, turn right at the Hubertushof (yellow building) and enter the forest. The trail leads to the “Herrengarten”, the old mill and finally to the ruins of Castel Strada.
Return
The way back follows the path to the old mill and continues along a forest road to the Brenner state road, returning to Colle Isarco. Alternatively, you can extend the hike and continue on foot to Vipiteno, one of Italy’s most beautiful medieval towns.
