The Graun-Circuit over the Sitzkofel

A scenic circular hiking trail through history, nature, and panoramas

The Graun Circuit is a varied circular trail above Kurtatsch, offering hiking enthusiasts spectacular views, quiet forest trails, and cultural and historical highlights.
Particularly striking is the Sitzkofel – a vantage point with sweeping views across the South Tyrolean lowlands to the Mendel Group.

Directions

The starting point is the village square of Graun (823 m). Below the “Claudibrunnen” fountain near the fire station, the trail branches off into the Lochweg path. The trail runs through vineyards and orchards to the tree line, where it continues southwest along the “Grauner Wände” (Grau Walls). The first highlight is the lime kiln, restored by Kurtatsch craftsmen. An information panel here demonstrates the historical technique of lime burning – a testament to past craftsmanship.

The hiking trail continues to the Sitzkofel, a mighty rocky outcrop that was secured with steel anchors in the 1980s. From here, a spectacular panoramic view of the Etsch Valley opens up – an ideal place to pause. Heading west, you reach the “Großer Stein,” a Bronze Age cup-shaped stone whose meaning remains a mystery. The trail continues north past the elementary school before returning to the village center. A detour to the late Gothic Church of St. George with its Romanesque tower is particularly worthwhile.

Highlights along the route

• Sitkofel: Viewpoint with breathtaking views of the lowlands
• Lime Kiln: Restored lime kiln with information panels (cultural station)
• Großer Stein: Prehistoric cult stone
• St. George’s Church: Romanesque-Gothic architecture in the middle of the forest

Technical Data

• Length: approx. 2.7 km
• Elevation gain: approx. 75 m
• Walking time: approx. 150 minutes
• Difficulty: easy
• Best time of year: spring to fall

The trail can be extended as desired

Here you can download the digital brochure in Italian and German of the Murundum Trail and discover the unique dry-stone walls and vineyard landscape around Cortaccia.