Rifiano with its pleasant climate is one of the oldest and most famous pilgrimage sites in South Tyrol
Located at the entrance to the Val Passiria, Rifiano and its surrounding hamlets sit on a south-east-facing terrace. The spa climate of Merano is still noticeable here, blending with the first signs of a holiday in a valley surrounded by mountain meadows and peaks. The district of Campo, for example, is a small hamlet located right on the Merano High Route and is widely known as a starting point for hikes and mountain tours.
Additionally, Gaveis and the settlement of Tschenn are situated along this high-altitude trail, which is one of the most beautiful circular hiking routes in Europe. From mid-May, the southern side is already accessible. Most mountain huts open between May and June, inviting walkers to enjoy hearty South Tyrolean dishes and homemade cakes. Vernurio is also part of Rifiano.
It is a charming place with a small church featuring a wooden tower and the Brunner Sawmill. The main village, Rifiano, has long been known as a pilgrimage site. Pilgrims have been coming to Rifiano since the Middle Ages to share their hopes with the Mother of Mercy. The "Seven Sorrows of Mary" meditation path was added a few years ago.
Rifiano lies in the Gruppo di Tessa Nature Park, surrounded by vineyards and chestnut groves. The farms reach up to an altitude of 1,400 metres, clinging to the steep meadows. Above them are alpine pastures such as the Obisell Hut. In this mountainous area, the municipality crosses two mountain ridges and reaches into two side valleys: the Valclava and the Faltmar Valley in Passiria.
Anyone wishing to spend their days in nature will find peace and relaxation along the Rifiano Waalweg path, or at the Earth Pyramids and the nearby tractor museum in neighbouring Caines. Families often prefer the new Magic Path, a short walk, perfect for little legs. As in many sun-drenched locations, a prehistoric settlement site was found here: In this case, it is called Burgstall.
