A landscape full of stories
Around Seis am Schlern and the majestic Schlern, you’ll encounter not only nature and mountains, but also centuries-old legends that are still palpable today.
The Dolomites are a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site—and at the same time a region steeped in myths, history, and special places.
High up, where the last spruce trees of the Hauenstein Forest meet the rugged rock faces, a nearly inaccessible place opens up: the Klausnerloch, next to which a clear spring flows. Centuries ago, a hermitage with a chapel stood here—today preserved only as a legend and a memory.
The Legend of the Hermit of Schlern
During the time of Emperor Maximilian I, the last knight to sit on the throne of the Holy Roman Empire, a mysterious pilgrim is said to have arrived at Castel Hauenstein.
After a long and confidential conversation with the lord of the castle, he withdrew into the solitude of a cave on the Schlern (Sciliar).
There he lived as a hermit—in harmony with nature, the mountains, and the silent world of the Dolomites.
According to legend, he understood the language of animals, knew the healing powers of plants, and helped many people in the valley during times of plague. Even Emperor Maximilian I is said to have personally visited him to seek his counsel—yet the hermit remained faithful to his silence.
In tears, Emperor Max took his leave and revealed the secret of the Schlernklausner to no one.
Years passed until the hermit one day received news that the emperor had died in 1519.
Deeply moved, he mourned his friend and is said to have died himself only a few days later.
The hermitage and chapel were left abandoned. Only the evening wind continued to play with the small bell in the tower, carrying its sound down into the valley.
Many years later, the hermitage was destroyed and burned down during war.
The “Schlern witches” recovered the silver bell from the ruins and brought it to the summit of the Schlern.
There, according to legend, it can still be heard during thunderstorms and storms over the Dolomites—as an echo of an ancient legend that has never fallen silent.
The frescoes on our building
At the Hotel Enzian Genziana itself, this story is also visible:
The historic frescoes on the façade tell the legend of the Schlernklausner and the deep connection between humans, nature, and the mountain world.
They give the house its unique character and make history come alive already upon arrival.
Today you can visit Castel Hauenstein and explore the surroundings of the Schlern (Sciliar) along impressive hiking trails.
The region uniquely combines nature, culture, and history—set in the spectacular mountain landscape of the Dolomites.
Your holiday with a story
A stay at the Hotel Enzian Genziana is more than just a holiday—it is a journey into a landscape filled with myths, silence, and Alpine culture.
Here, outdoor adventure, relaxation, and history merge into a truly unique experience.
Discover the story for yourself—on hikes around the Schlern or directly in the heart of Seis am Schlern.
