The Stanghe Waterfalls, also known as the Gilfenklamm, are one of the most fascinating natural attractions in South Tyrol. Located in the Racines Valley, just a few kilometres from Vipiteno, they are an ideal destination for anyone seeking an immersive nature experience among hiking trails, rushing water and landscapes shaped over time.
This protected natural monument stretches between Stanghe and Ponte Giovo, within a deep gorge carved into white marble, a rare geological feature that makes the Gilfenklamm truly unique.
A natural masterpiece
The Racines stream makes its way through smooth rock walls, creating a succession of waterfalls, rapids and rock pools. Thanks to well-maintained walkways, bridges and paths, the gorge can be explored safely, allowing visitors to experience the impressive power of the water up close.
The white marble surfaces reflect natural light, creating shades ranging from emerald green to light grey, making the visit atmospheric in every season.
How to get to the Stanghe Waterfalls
There are three access points to the gorge:
Main access: on the left just before the bridge in Stanghe, near the Hotel Ratschingserhof
Second access: in the centre of the village of Stanghe, behind the inn “Zur Gilfenklamm”
Access from Ponte Giovo: opposite the “Jaufensteg” inn, ideal for visiting the gorge downhill
For a comfortable and sustainable arrival, Stanghe can be reached by bus lines 312 and 319, without changing buses.
Routes and hikes in the Gilfenklamm
Route through the gorge to Ponte Giovo
The main route starts in Stanghe and runs through the entire gorge to Ponte Giovo, offering the full experience of the Stanghe Waterfalls.
Duration: approx. 1 hour
Length: 2.5 km
Elevation gain: 175 m
The trail is suitable for hikers with a reasonable level of fitness and for families with children used to walking.
Return routes to Stanghe
For the return, several options are available:
Return along the same path through the gorge
Route through Pratone (trails no. 11A and 25):
Duration: approx. 50 minutes
Length: 2 km
Ascent: 20 m | Descent: 200 m
Route via the ruins of Reifenegg (trail no. 1A):
Duration: approx. 1 hour and 10 minutes
Length: 3.2 km
Ascent: 100 m | Descent: 270 m
Opening hours of the Stanghe Waterfalls
The Stanghe Waterfalls are currently closed and will reopen in May 2026.
During the opening season, the hours are as follows:
Daily from 9.00 am to 5.00 pm
In July and August from 9.00 am to 6.00 pm
Last entry at 5.00 pm (July and August at 6.00 pm)
No reservation is required. However, visitors are advised to avoid peak hours, especially between 10.00 am and 12.30 pm.
Entrance fees
Adults: €8.00
Children (6–13.99 years): €5.00
Groups of 20 people or more: €6.50 per person
Group leaders: free admission
Useful information for visitors
Dogs are allowed, but special care is required on bridges with steel grates
There are no age limits for children; for small children, a baby carrier backpack is recommended, as the route is not suitable for pushchairs
Just after the entrance in Stanghe there is a small rest area with a bench and table; there are no other picnic areas along the route
Swimming is not allowed
Public toilets are available at the ticket office in Stanghe and at the end of the gorge near the Jaufensteg restaurant
Information
Racines Tourist Office
Tel. +39 0472 760 608
