Hocheppan Castle

Perched on a rocky outcrop above the Adige Valley, near Missian, Hocheppan Castle enjoys a spectacular panoramic setting. From here, visitors can admire the impressive mountain scenery of South Tyrol, stretching from the Schlern massif and the legendary Rosengarten (Catinaccio) to the Ötztal Alps in the north and the Lagorai mountain range in the south.

A castle steeped in history

The castle was built around 1130 by Count Ulrich II of Eppan and was already one of the most important and powerful fortresses in the region at that time. It was destroyed in 1158 but rebuilt shortly afterwards. In 1315, it passed into the hands of the Princes of Tyrol and changed ownership several times over the following centuries. Since 2016, Hocheppan Castle has been owned by the Municipality of Eppan. Today, it is considered one of South Tyrol’s most impressive historic castles, combining the charm of medieval heritage with an extraordinary natural setting.

Medieval architecture and remarkable frescoes

One of the castle’s most distinctive features is its imposing pentagonal keep. The castle chapel is home to a true artistic treasure: its Romanesque fresco cycle is among the most significant examples of medieval mural painting in South Tyrol. These remarkable paintings offer a fascinating glimpse into the art and culture of the Middle Ages.

Winter closure

Hocheppan Castle is currently closed for the winter season. The castle grounds, chapel and castle tavern remain closed during the winter months. The castle is expected to reopen in mid-March, marking the start of the new season.

Hocheppan Castle is easily accessible by public transport:

• From Bolzano train station: Bus 131 from Bolzano bus station to Eppan (get off at “Frangart, Pillhof” or “St. Michael, station”), then Citybus 135.2 to “Missianer Weg”.
• From Merano train station: Train to Sigmundskron, then Bus 132 to Eppan (get off at “Frangart, Pillhof” or “St. Michael, station”), then Citybus 135.2 to “Missianer Weg”.
• From Caldaro station: Bus 132 to “St. Michael, station” or “Frangart, Pillhof”, then Citybus 135.2 to “Missianer Weg”.

From “Missianer Weg” stop, about a 50-minute walk to the castle.

By public transport:

• From Bolzano train station: Bus 131 from Bolzano bus station to Eppan (get off at “Frangart, Pillhof” or “St. Michael, station”), then Citybus 135.2 to “Missianer Weg”.
• From Merano train station: Train to Sigmundskron, then Bus 132 to Eppan (get off at “Frangart, Pillhof” or “St. Michael, station”), then Citybus 135.2 to “Missianer Weg”.
• From Caldaro station: Bus 132 to “St. Michael, station” or “Frangart, Pillhof”, then Citybus 135.2 to “Missianer Weg”.

From “Missianer Weg” stop, about a 50-minute walk to the castle.

By car:
The Brenner motorway A22 takes you directly to holiday destination Südtirols Süden. Take the Bolzano South exit and continue on the Merano–Bolzano expressway (MEBO) to the Eppan exit. At the first junction, turn towards Unterrain, then after a few hundred meters left to Missian. Parking is available below St. Apollonia’s Church in Missian (approx. 60-minute walk) or directly at the Schloss Hotel Korb; from there, the castle is about a 45-minute walk away.

Shuttle Service:
A paid shuttle service to the castle is available on request. Info: niedermayrernst@gmail.com, +39 338 587 95 45.

Castle Parking: Large paid parking near Schloss Korb. Not suitable for large buses. Address: Hocheppanerweg 16, Missian.

Missian: Parking for cars and larger buses below the St. Apollonia church. Address: Hubertfeld-Weg 20, Missian.