Geoparc Rio delle Foglie

This geopark is called “Grand Canyon of South Tyrol”

The so-called Bletterbach, also known as “Rio delle Foglie”, is South Tyrol’s largest gorge and lies at the bottom of the Corno Bianco mountain in the south of the country. Over millions of years the stone has been eroded so that nowadays you can see the singular layers.

Here you can see at first hand how the stunning Dolomites developed: the lowest layer is porphyry, above in the middle we find sandstone and at the top Dolomite limestone, of which also the Corno Bianco mountain is made.

An interesting geologic trail takes you through the fascinating gorge. Starting point is the visitor centre in Aldino or the Geology Museum in Redagno. 16 information panels tell you all about the different layers and stones. Moreover, they inform about such precious findings as carbonised plants and woods, primeval sea animals, corals, Bellerophon snails and mussels or the imprints of dinosaurs. What an extraordinary experience to stand between the up to 20m high stone walls!

By the way: In summer the Geoparc Bletterbach hosts funny afternoon programmes for kids aged 6 to 15 :-) Just ask for it at the local tourism offices!