The concept of nature parks in South Tyrol
The term "nature park" is not only a protected area but also a seal of quality. It promises natural beauty and original landscape, as well as land that has been developed and cultivated by peasants over the centuries. To keep this promise, it is necessary to recognise the importanance of public nature and landscape protection. Everyone should play their part.
The creation of a natural park has the following goals:
- protection of the natural landscape
- care of the cultural landscape
- scientific research
- information and environmental education
It is logical that an experience of nature and landscape are the most important goals, but to do so, it is important to protect and to preserve landscape that is in tact. The unused natural landscape is to be preserved in its current natural state, while various cultural landscapes can be used and cared for.
The nature park of Rieserferner-Ahrn covers a surface of approximately 31,505 hectares, divided into the communities of Sand in Taufers, Gais, Percha, Rasen-Antholz, Ahrntal and Prettau. The park is restricted in the Northwest by the valley basin of the Tauferer Ahrntal. In the East until the Staller Sattel, the park boundary combines with the Austrian border. In the Southeast the protected area is restricted by the Antholzertal and in the South by the Pustertal.
The nature park of Rieserferner-Ahrn (315 km²) which has existed since 1988, borders on the national park Hohe Tauern (1,788 km²). Together with the silent area Zillertaler Hauptkamm (372 km²) they form the biggest protected area combination in Europe with a total surface of 2,475 km².In its authenticity and beauty, the nature park of Rieserferner-Ahrn represents an ideal starting point for unforgettable walks and mountain tours.
Guided excursions in the Nature Park Rieserferner Ahrn
In collaboration with the tourist offices of the municipalities present in the nature park, the provincial office for nature parks organises guided tours in the summer months. The guides are trained in order to sensitise the visitors for the beauty of the landscape and for the correlations between human beings and nature. In this way the tour becomes a deep and unique experience.
Discover the hiking tours in the Nature park area: