Val Pusteria Austria: the Sillian valley, waiting to be discovered

Born as a merchant municipality, Sillian is one of the largest villages in the Upper Pusteria Valley. Over 2000 inhabitants live there, and are located at the foot of the Thurntaler, made up of Arnbach, Sillian and Sillianberg. Val Pusteria extends to Lienz, the capital of East Tyrol, and touches the largest alpine peaks in Austria. This area also includes the largest natural park in Central Europe: the Hohe Tauern Natural Park.
To experience the mountains and spend some excellent time in the country, Sillian is among the best destinations. In fact, it includes a 155 km long trekking route, and a 200 km long cycle path that goes all the way to Slovenia. The return is easy with the trains for the bicycle transport of the Austrian railways departing from Lienz. The track passes next to the Loacker biscuit factory in Heinfels, which can be easily visited thanks to the direct access from the track.
The city of Sillian also offers the only preserved sedan from the Middle Ages and the baroque parish church Maria Himmelfahrt which dates back to 1431. This area is also one of those that most feel the Feast of the Sacred Heart in June.
In Sillian there is also a fascinating castle which is the symbol of the Eastern Pusteria Valley: Castel Heinfels. This imposing manor stands on top of a hill above Panzendorf. From its strategic position, the view of the Val Pusteria and the Kartitisch Valley extends as far as the eye can see.
The medieval castle, the old military base of the Counts of Gorizia, is made up of three complexes, the oldest of which dates back to the 13th century. It is worth entering and arriving in the Sala dei Cavalieri, with decorations dating back to the 18th century.
Adventure park Wichtelpark in Sillian
A splendid place to entertain young and old, the Sichtian Wichtelpark adventure park is a real attraction in this area of Alta Pusteria. It is located right on the cycle path, and offers a splendid slide on the valley, a racetrack and a very popular water playground.
Wichtelpark means "Park of the gnomes" and the theme is also taken up by the scalable rock wall suitable for children. The entertainment is completed by an 18-hole mini-golf course and a high-rope course. And for adults? On-site areas are available for outdoor grilling and relaxing while enjoying the wonderful landscape of Alta Pusteria.