Castel Montani Ruins Hike
Looking for a fun castle ruins hike in the Italian Alps of South Tyrol near Laces (Latsch), Italy? Look no further than the abandoned ruins of Castel Montani di Sopra and Castel Montani di Sotto!This fun, but moderate family-friendly hike leads visitors to two castle ruins along a mountain ridge in the heart of Val Venosta in the Italian Alps. Surrounded by vineyards, apple orchards, and towering alpine mountains, this short 1.3 km (0.8 mile) out-and-back hike features breathtaking Alps views and a chance to explore two distinct medieval fortifications.
Reaching Castel Montani di Sopra Ruins (Burg Obermontani)
The hike begins on a hairpin turn of the road Via Montani di Sopra (Obermontaniweg). Here, you will find a gated entrance to the trail.After passing the gate, the first set of ruins presents itself almost immediately. Located just 50 meters from the trailhead, the abandoned tower of Castel Montani di Sopra (German: Burg Obermontani) stands tall overhead. The trail runs along the exterior of the castle walls, offering stunning south-facing views of the Italian Alps and the vineyard-filled valley below. To the east, hikers will find more views of the orchard and vineyard-filled valley that sits below the Italian Alps of South Tyrol.
Note: While Montani di Sopra is a unique fortress, the interior is gated. Visitors cannot enter these specific ruins, but you can admire the historic castle from the path.
The Descent to Castel Montani di Sotto (Burg Untermontani)
After exploring the exterior of the upper castle, the trail curves around the fortress and begins a descent along the mountain ridge toward the second ruin: Castel Montani di Sotto.The path leads into the forest, following switchbacks downhill. Along the way, you are treated to panoramic views of South Tyrol’s dramatic landscape. To the southwest, look for the Rio Plima (Plimabach), where a ~3 meter (10 ft) waterfall cascades into the gorge below.
At approximately the 0.63 km mark, you will reach the entrance to Castel Montani di Sotto (German: Burg Untermontani).
Exploring the Castel Montani di Sotto Ruins
Unlike the first castle, Montani di Sotto is more accessible. A small path winds up and around the long-abandoned castle drawbridge that once connected the ridge to the fortress entrance.
Pass through the stone doorway to step into the long-gone interior of this castle ruin. Here, you will find historic walls, open windows framing the sky, and spectacular views.
The view back uphill toward Castel Montani di Sopra is arguably the best on the hike. It frames the upper castle sitting on the ridge with the peaks of the Italian Alps in the background.
The Return Hike - 0.67 to 1.3 km
After exploring the interior of the abandoned Castel Montani di Sotto, the return hike is short but requires some effort. Follow the same path back up the mountain ridge. While the trail uphill is moderate, it offers a final chance to enjoy the scenic views of the orchard valley below with towering Italian Alps overhead.
Once you pass the upper castle again, exit through the gate to return to the road. Please remember to close the gate behind you.
