Gilfenklamm Magic Light

A white marble gorge illuminated at night

The Gilfenklamm Magic Light is a summer highlight that turns the Gilfenklamm gorge, known in Italian as Cascate di Stanghe, into a path of light and sound every Thursday. Located in the municipality of Racines/Ratschings, in the Autonomous Province of Bolzano (South Tyrol), the canyon stretches from the village of Stanghe/Stange to the hamlet of Ponte Giovo/Jaufensteg, having carved through walls of pure white marble for centuries—a rare geological feature in the Alps.

The experience

At dusk, visitors explore the wooden bridges and walkways suspended over the Racines stream on their own, while delicate lighting makes the rushing water shimmer with iridescent colors. Upon entry, guests are provided with a portable lantern to walk the trail safely; the mountain rescue service ensures the route is monitored. The atmosphere, between the roar of the waterfalls and the play of light under the starry sky, makes the visit suitable for families as well.

History of the gorge

About a century ago, the gorge was named after the Austrian Emperor Franz Joseph (Kaiser-Franz-Josef-Klamm); over time, the name evolved into the current Italian designation of Cascate di Stanghe. Along its course, the small Racines stream becomes a rushing torrent that has carved into the white marble walls, creating one of the most evocative natural landscapes in the Upper Isarco Valley and the Wipptal.

Useful information

• Entry: from 9:00 PM, at the ticket offices in Stanghe/Stange or Ponte Giovo/Jaufensteg
• Return: shuttle from Ponte Giovo to Stanghe included in the ticket
• Booking: not required; the event takes place only in good weather

The initiative is promoted by the Racines/Ratschings Tourist Association and represents one of the highlights of the summer tourism season in the Vipiteno-Racines area.