5 Reasons for a Holiday in Innichen
Culture, Nature, Relaxation, Adventure, and Children's Laughter
The Glinzhof is located on the highest mountain road of the charming alpine village of Innichen, at an altitude of 1,500 m above sea level. Our farm is situated on the sunny side of the Hochpustertal valley in South Tyrol, offering a breathtaking view of the center of Innichen, framed by the stunning panorama of the Sesto Dolomites and the local mountain, Haunold. Our home village is considered one of the most popular holiday destinations in South Tyrol’s Hochpustertal, as it offers a colorful and fascinating mix of culture and nature, relaxation and adventure. There is always something to experience here, no matter the season or the current weather in Innichen.
The Perfect Holiday Destination!
We want to show you that Innichen is the perfect holiday destination for every traveler – from singles and couples to families and seniors, as well as wellness enthusiasts, history buffs, and extreme sports fans.
Welcome to Innichen / San Candido – So, where exactly am I?
The market town of Innichen (Italian: San Candido) is a charming alpine village with around 3,350 inhabitants, situated at 1,175 m above sea level. Located in the Hochpustertal valley in the far east of South Tyrol, it sits right at the mouth of the Sesto Valley, where the Sesto Stream meets the Drava River. With its urban flair and lively pedestrian zone, Innichen is not only the region's shopping hotspot but also the economic heart of the Three Peaks Nature Park in the Sesto Dolomites. In Innichen, you will find everything your heart desires: from brand-name clothing and shoes to sporting goods, gelato, toys, bike rentals, newspapers, and tobacco, as well as a pharmacy, cafés, and restaurants!
This year, we are celebrating the 1250th anniversary of Innichen, and to mark this jubilee, there are year-round events held in celebration of the town. 1,250 years ago, in 769 AD, a Benedictine monastery was founded here for missionary purposes, after which the small mountain village developed into a religious site of great influence. The spiritual community of Innichen significantly increased the market town's importance and set the village apart from its rural surroundings. This special status compared to its neighbors has been preserved by Innichen to this day. The core elements of Innichen's identity are its cultural and religious heritage, its strong entrepreneurial spirit as a market town, and finally its importance as a transport hub with extensive connections. This has evolved into a diverse range of activities and events across all seasons, offering something for every holiday taste.
1. Culture: Churches, Cemeteries, and Museums – What interests you most?
Innichen truly stands for a diverse mountain holiday – not least because of its fascinating history. In fact, Innichen’s origins date back to the 4th century BC, when a Celtic tribe settled at the mouth of the Sesto Valley. Want to know what Innichen has to offer in terms of history and culture? Let us let you in on the secret!
Parish Church of Saint Michael in Innichen
The Parish Church of Saint Michael in Innichen is definitely worth a visit. This Romanesque church dates back to the 12th century and was gradually remodeled in the Baroque style between 1735 and 1760 following a fire, making it one of the most significant late-Baroque sacred buildings in Tyrol. During the renovation, the tower was heightened by an octagonal story and adorned with a characteristic onion dome. Inside the church, you can admire shallow domes featuring frescoes by Christoph Anton Mayr. The ceiling fresco above the altar depicts St. Michael and the fallen angels in hell. The three other vaulted frescoes in the nave portray St. Michael as the conqueror of evil forces, the protector of the Church, and the patron saint of the dying. Additionally, further ornamental paintings by Christoph Anton Mayr can be found on the church walls. The pointed arch portal on the south side consists of older Romanesque and Gothic elements and was redesigned in the third quarter of the 18th century.
The Innichen Collegiate Museum
The Innichen Collegiate Museum is located right next to the Collegiate Church in a building that is no less steeped in history, its exterior having remained unchanged since the 16th century. The eastern part dates back to the time of the Benedictine monastery founded in 769. The western part was built around 1385 and acquired the appearance it retains today during the 16th century. Around 1500, painters from the Brixen School dedicated themselves to the ornamental paintings around the windows. At that time, the ground floor served as food storage rooms. The upper floor was divided into the chapter hall, library room, archive room, and the parlor and workspace of the librarian and schoolmaster. Today, in addition to the museum, the building houses the collegiate archives and library. We highly recommend a tour of the Collegiate Museum and its 7 showrooms to anyone interested in history. Visits are possible from June to September, every Tuesday and Saturday.
The Dolomythos Museum
The Dolomythos Museum is dedicated to the Dolomites UNESCO World Heritage site and is located right in the heart of Innichen's pedestrian zone. It invites visitors of all ages on an exciting journey through time into the mysterious world of these impressive mountains: stunning fossils, crystal and stone landscapes, dinosaurs, or the enigmatic rise of plants—just to name a few highlights of the Dolomythos experience museum. For children, special activities such as treasure hunts, following in the footsteps of dinosaurs, gold panning, and more are organized to ensure there is never a dull moment.
Innichen Collegiate Church
The Collegiate Church of Innichen is considered the most beautiful Romanesque sacred building in the Eastern Alps and is an absolute highlight. When the Benedictine monastery, founded in the 8th century, was converted into a collegiate church around 1143, construction of the church began. However, it did not take on its current form until around 1280. The bell tower was built even later, between 1320 and 1326. The monumental masonry is reminiscent of the fortress style of the Crusaders and the many castles built during the reign of the Hohenstaufen emperors. Particularly worth seeing are the Romanesque dome fresco, the remarkable Crucifixion Group, and the highly symbolic crypt. From early June to early October, art-historical guided tours of the Romanesque Collegiate Church and the Parish Church of St. Michael take place every Friday at 4:00 PM. The meeting point is in front of the Innichen Tourist Board.
The "Burg" Military Cemetery
As previously mentioned, Innichen held a position of great significance as a transport hub—including during the First World War from 1914 to 1918. Due to its proximity to the Dolomites front, several military hospitals were established in Innichen. So many soldiers passed away in these facilities that they could no longer be buried in the collegiate cemetery. Consequently, a dedicated interfaith military cemetery was created. By November 1918, over 700 identified soldiers had been laid to rest in individual graves at the "Burg" military cemetery, along with many unknown soldiers in a mass grave. The hallmark and the poignant charm of this military cemetery are its simplicity and the meticulous care with which it is maintained.
Events in Innichen
When it comes to events, Innichen has some true sensations to offer. The year begins with the international Snow Sculpture Festival and the evening "Balloon Glow" as part of the Balloon Festival. Spring brings the Dolomites' largest Easter Egg Hunt, and in summer, the Marktlfest (Market Festival) is a special highlight held every odd-numbered year. The Heugabel-Tage (Pitchfork Days) in autumn and the traditional Christmas market, featuring local handicrafts and culinary specialties, bring the year to a beautiful close. This year, our 1250th anniversary adds many more cultural occasions to our event calendar throughout Innichen.
2. Nature: Our local mountain Haunold and the Three Peaks Nature Park
Who needs the sea when you can have the mountains?
Innichen is located in the Hochpustertal valley in South Tyrol and impresses with its breathtaking scenery, fresh mountain air, and pristine nature.
The Local Mountain, Haunold
Innichen’s local mountain is called Haunold, and with an elevation of 2,966 m, it is a true all-rounder—offering relaxation, adventure, and fun for everyone in every season. In summer, Haunold impresses with its blooming meadows and lush green pastures that radiate a sense of carefree tranquility, providing an excellent playground for young and old alike. In winter, the mountain transforms into a diverse ski resort. The mountain's versatility is further enhanced by the "Fun-Bob" summer toboggan run, the Giant Haunold Hut, and the children's climbing course, making it particularly popular with families. Just 3 minutes from the center of Innichen, a four-seater chairlift whisks you up the 1,500 m high mountain.
Three Peaks Nature Park
The Three Peaks Nature Park has been part of the UNESCO World Heritage Dolomites since 2009 and is located in the northeastern part of the region. It covers an area of over 11,000 hectares, spread across the municipalities of Innichen, Sesto, and Dobbiaco. The extraordinary landscapes and the Dolomite peaks, above all the namesake Three Peaks, are what make this nature park so fascinating. In the second half of the 19th century, pioneering mountaineering feats were achieved here, and even today, alpinists from all over the world continue to put their skills to the test on the vertical walls of this mountain group.
3. Relaxation: Fresh mountain air and crystal-clear water
That’s all you need!
If simply spending time in the fresh air and nature isn’t enough for full relaxation, how about combining it with crystal-clear mountain water?
The Wildbad Springs
A detour to the "Wildbad" near Innichen is well worth it for those seeking relaxation, even though the former healing and bathing facility can now only be admired from the outside as a ruin. Five healing springs originate here, which have been used for thermal treatments since the Middle Ages. In 1856, a sanatorium was established, which was later expanded into the Grand Hotel Wildbad and became a popular meeting point for the nobility in the 19th century. Unfortunately, it was partially destroyed during the First World War and has been left to decay ever since. Nevertheless, the area with its fountains and magnificent meadows remains an idyllic local recreation zone today. Around the estate, several benches and tables invite you to linger and enjoy a picnic. On a barefoot trail, you can "feel, touch, and taste the water." Naturally, you also have the opportunity to taste the five healing springs. With the exception of the sulfur spring, the healing waters are bottled and sold as mineral water. The "Kaiserwasser" spring is bottled together with the "Candida" spring and was historically popular among those with kidney and urinary tract issues. The "Eisenquelle" (Iron Spring) is the most highly mineralized water among all mineral waters in South Tyrol, and the "Lavaredo" spring was once very popular as a remedy for stomach ailments.
The Acquafun Adventure Pool
The Acquafun adventure pool in Innichen is a unique alpine world of experience with a special atmosphere for all ages. A babbling mountain stream, the sound of birdsong, and views of the South Tyrolean mountains bring the spirit of the peaks right into the pool area. No matter the weather in Innichen, swimming with a "mountain feeling" is always possible. The adventure pool features a separate children's pool, a water fountain, a 75m-long water slide, and a lazy river. You can leave everyday life behind and simply relax at the massage station and the floor whirlers. Neck showers, water curtains, and water cannons also help to release tension. Finally, the extensive sauna world with steam baths and a Kneipp circuit is the perfect place to simply regenerate. In summer, Acquafun opens its large sunbathing lawn, which is ideal for soaking up the sun and rounds off the perfect mix of refreshing variety and relaxation.
4. Adventure: Hiking, Climbing, Biking, Skiing, and Tobogganing
Which adventure will you choose?
In the mountains surrounding Innichen, adventure seekers will find exactly what they are looking for in every season. First, a special tip from us: get the Bikemobil Card, which allows you to use all public transport throughout South Tyrol indefinitely for 1, 3, or 7 consecutive days. On one of those days (your choice), the rental of a bicycle is also included.
Hiking
The most natural leisure activity in the mountains is, of course, hiking. Depending on your personal fitness level or mood, you can set off on numerous tours directly from Innichen. You can find a great overview of all routes with varying degrees of difficulty here. Naturally, we at Glinzhof highly recommend the Farm Hike (Höfewanderung), where Glinzhof is one of the destination farms around Innichenberg. This means you can start your journey right from our front door!
Climbing
The Three Peaks Dolomites region is, naturally, a paradise for climbing enthusiasts. Whether on multi-pitch climbing tours, via ferratas, or in climbing gardens, even extreme athletes will find their adrenaline rush here. And should the weather in Innichen not cooperate, the neighboring towns of Dobbiaco and Sesto offer indoor climbing gyms to challenge your skills. If you are planning your climbing holiday here in the Hochpustertal valley, take a look at this page.
Cycling
Cycling in Innichen is an experience for all ages. If you don’t bring your own bike, you can simply rent one at BIKE RENTAL Dolomiti Slowbike in Innichen and hit the trails. Bike tours are available heading toward East Tyrol as well as toward Bruneck. The cross-border cycle path from Innichen to Lienz, visiting our Austrian neighbors, is particularly popular with families. The 50 km route is mostly flat or gently downhill, and for the return journey, you can simply hop on the train. You can find other exciting and scenic bike tours here.
Mountain Biking
If you are looking for more than just a leisurely cycle through the landscape and crave challenges and thrills, the Three Peaks Dolomites region offers a total of 61 diverse and varied routes. You can set off in all four directions on tours with different levels of difficulty. They lead you through shaded forests, up to sunny alpine meadows, or along mountain paths and passes in the Dolomites. To get a first overview, take a look at Outdooractive. We particularly recommend the Giro Bike Tour, which covers four mountains and involves conquering nearly 3,500 meters in altitude.
Skiing, Cross-Country Skiing, and Ski Touring
Every year, Innichen transforms into a stunning winter wonderland that invites skiers of all skill levels to enjoy skiing. The Haunold ski area is part of Dolomiti Superski, the world’s largest ski carousel. For ultimate skiing fun, you’ll find five lifts, 23 km of slopes, four ski huts, a children’s ski cross track, and a floodlit slope for night skiing. In addition, Innichen is connected to the Hochpustertal cross-country network, offering cross-country skiers 200 km of groomed trails. And of course, Innichen’s landscape is also perfectly suited for snowshoe excursions or ski touring.
Tobogganing
If you think tobogganing in Innichen is only for the winter, think again! Our local mountain, Haunold, is home to Italy's first summer toboggan run, the "Fun-Bob." On a 1,750m long aluminum track, you zip down into the valley in a securely mounted bobsled. With a gradient of up to 40% and a self-adjustable speed of up to 10 m/s, a ride on the "Fun-Bob" is a truly unique experience. In winter, you can switch back to a classic sled on Mount Haunold. The numerous sledding slopes and safe toboggan runs ensure maximum fun for all age groups.
5. Children's Laughter – What will your kids enjoy?
Children need movement, challenges, and variety. Not only do we here at Glinzhof want to provide our young guests with a unique holiday, but Innichen itself also offers many attractions for children that will make their stay unforgettable. We have already described several highlights such as the Dolomythos Museum, the Acquafun adventure pool, and the family cycle path to Lienz. Now, we would like to introduce you to four more highlights.
Haunold – The Family Adventure Mountain
As we’ve mentioned, our 2,966 m local mountain is a true all-rounder. In addition to the "Fun-Bob" summer toboggan run and the winter ski resort, children up to age 8 can put their skills to the test on two children’s climbing courses at a height of 1.50 m. There is also a small tubing track where you can hop onto special tires and slide down. Furthermore, from mid-July to the end of August, regular children's festivals are held with the "Giant Haunold."
Olperl’s Mountain World on Mount Helm
On this 1.5 km circular hiking trail on Mount Helm, you walk entirely barefoot. At an altitude of 2,150 m, it is one of the highest barefoot paths in the Dolomites. Your foot reflex zones are revitalized by soft moss, fragrant larch wood, stone slabs, or pebbles, and at the end, you can dip your feet into cool spring water. Along the trail, you can discover ten exciting activity stations while enjoying breathtaking views of the peaks of the Sesto Dolomites.
The "Kinderalm" Children’s Farm on Mount Helm
The playground on Mount Helm was opened in 2014 and looks like a miniature mountain village. It consists of several wooden alpine huts, decorated with benches, cabinets, home accessories, and even a child’s bed with a small, red down duvet. To complete this child-friendly replica of a farm, there are also many animals such as pygmy rabbits and bantam chickens that can be petted and fed. Water lock games, swings, and a slide provide further fun and excitement.
More Playgrounds in Innichen
In Innichen itself, there are two public playgrounds where kids can let off steam. The playground at the elementary school features a small soccer field (Bolzplatz), a climbing course, a sandbox, and ball game facilities. The playground on the "Burghügel" (Castle Hill) is equipped with swings, a slide, a climbing frame, a small pond, a playhouse, and a sandbox.
Conclusion – A holiday in Innichen is always worth it!
From strolling through the pedestrian zone and diving into Innichen’s history at Dolomythos, to hiking, cycling, and skiing—Innichen represents an exciting and diverse mountain holiday. And if you want to put the "icing on the cake" for your stay in South Tyrol, don't just look for a holiday apartment or settle for an impersonal hotel in Innichen; instead, treat yourself to one of our beautiful rooms here at Glinzhof. With our authentic hospitality, our private wellness oasis, and the absolute tranquility found in the many quiet corners of our farm, we have turned even the most "exhausted souls" back into energetic individuals.
We look forward to welcoming you!
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