Nature studies path
The Sonnenberg, as the lower girdle of the Vinschgauer southern slopes is generally called, continues to be a forsaken, amorphous and inhospitable strip of land for many that at best is a supplier of low-grade firewood or serves for grazing sheep and goats. Nature lovers, however, have long known that it is precisely the Sonnenberg, as an extraordinary scenic form within the central Alpine area, which possesses great scientific, cultural and landscape-shaping value. Attentive hikers will notice particularities wherever they go. As a result of the extremely low rainfall and the favourable slant of the slopes for solar radiation, a habitat has developed with unusual flora and fauna which is unequalled. Whoever roams through this terrain with open eyes will repeatedly wonder at the capabilities with which plants and animals are equipped to survive in such an extreme location. Three different nature study paths can be walked along in Naturns: Nature Study Path Wallburg, Nature Study Path Stabner Waal and Nature Study Path Gsindboden (with viewing platform).
The Patleider Church Path in Naturns
Mute testimonial to a centuries-old history and culture, an archaic world which, today, appears quite remote from us, but 40 years ago was still very much alive. This church path can be seen as a significant part of the farm histories and of the habitat of the mountain population. It was used from birth until death. This path could tell tales of human destinies, on which some tears and many beads of sweat have waylaid and scuffled with each other, and also waited for each other and embraced in friendship, fostered, solidified or destroyed relationships. At certain points there were resting places, in this case stone benches, on which they could comfortably place their hamper or back-basket in order to take a short break and gather new strength. Such resting places and other distinctive points have their own names, from which we cannot deduce very much today, but they always provide for dependable orientation on the path. These place names are recorded in small notice boards on the path and give us insight into the earlier world of the mountain farmers.
Meditation trail in Naturns
This Besinnungsweg (Meditation Trail) at the foot of the Nörderberg comprises 15 \"stations\", similar to a way of the cross. From the Annunciation, the birth and on to the Resurrection and Ascension: fifteen events from the life of Jesus and the content of his Message are presented. Thereby, the Besinnungspfad includes nature, landscape, the composition of the terrain and the unique diversity of flora in the message. For this reason the stretches from one meditation point to the next are variably long. Access to the circular route is located above the Naturns Sport Centre.
Kneippen in and around Naturn
The term \"Kneippen\" comes from its inventor, Pastor Sebastian Kneipp. Many associate it only with walking in water or cold showers, but behind it, there is a comprehensive, holistic natural healing procedure comprising five components: the best known is hydrotherapy – to this belongs walking in cold water as well as warm baths, showers, steams and packing. In addition, herbalism, e.g. hay baths as well – a movement therapy, wholesome healthy nutrition and spiritual therapy for the psyche. The Kneipp cure is still practised these days with scarcely a change – and with success. It works against excessive and insufficient blood pressure, alleviates pain, helps with heart and vascular diseases and stimulates the circulation. And \"Kneippen\" is also ideal for prophylactic use and for inurement. The Tourism Union Naturns has installed natural \"Kneipp Stations\" in the mountain landscape of the Nörderberg and Sonnenberg alongside the numerous crystal-clear mountain streams, and by many springs. The individual stations are signposted and the appropriate Kneipp application is explained on information boards. Weekly guided Kneipp tours with a Kneipp expert.
