How to attend a Krampus Run in the Dolomites, South Tyrol: Kastelruth

Every two years, the quiet Alpine village of Kastelruth (Castelrotto) near Bolzano turns into something out of a nightmare—and trust me, you don’t want to miss it. Normally, it’s the kind of place where you linger over coffee and soak in Dolomite views. But during the Devil’s Course, the streets erupt with fire, smoke, and the deafening clang of bells as horned Krampus charge through in what’s considered one of the wildest Krampus runs in South Tyrol—second only to Toblach’s famous parade.

I went my very first winter living in Italy, and I thought I knew what I was getting into.

I didn’t. Not going to lie. It was WILD.

This wasn’t the cozy holiday folklore I’d brushed up against in Prague. This was pure chaos—Krampus rattling bells in my face, tugging at hats, chasing spectators, the crowd screaming in equal parts fear and delight. It was loud, it was raw, and it was absolutely unforgettable.

If you’re planning to go—and you should—you need a game plan. This isn’t the kind of event you just show up for. You’ll want to know:

• What time to arrive so you don’t end up stuck in the back.
• Where to stand for the best views (and the best chance to dodge or embrace a Krampus encounter).
• How to grab a spot early before the crowds take over.
• Where to stay nearby—whether you want the convenience of Bolzano or the full festive vibe of Kastelruth.

That’s exactly what this guide is here for, so keep reading before you make your plans.

This Post Pairs Well With:

• Your Guide to the Bolzano and Merano Christmas Market
• What to Expect at the Dobbacio Krampus Run (Coming Soon)
• Learn all about Krampus
• Rango Christmas Market in Garda-Trentino, Italy
• More Christmas Market Posts

At a Glance: Devil’s Course (Krampus Run) in Kastelruth

Best Resources: Dolomiti.it

Event Name: Devil’s Course (Teufellauf)

Location: Kastelruth (Castelrotto), South Tyrol, Italy

When: Every two years in early December (check Seiser Alm official site)

Nearest City: Bolzano (about 30 minutes by car)

Highlights: Parade of Krampus groups, bells, smoke, audience interaction, evening concert

Cost: Free (no ticket required)

Tip: Arrive early in the afternoon—spots along the parade route fill fast

Where is Kastelruth/Castelrotto in the Dolomites?

Castelrotto—known as Kastelruth in German—is a small alpine village in South Tyrol, perched just below the Alpe di Siusi plateau and about 30 minutes from Bolzano. It sits in the heart of the Dolomites’ Ladin region, where German and Italian culture blend in a way that feels both distinct and deeply local. Most travelers visit Castelrotto as a base for hiking or exploring the Seiser Alm in summer, but in early December the village transforms into something entirely different: a dramatic, lantern-lit backdrop for one of Italy’s most thrilling traditions, the Krampus Run. Its compact center, timbered buildings, and mountain silhouettes make it the kind of place where the folklore doesn’t feel performed—it feels rooted. If you’ve never been to South Tyrol before, Castelrotto is the perfect introduction to this region’s mythology, winter customs, and unmistakable Alpine character.

How to Use This Map:
Click the icon in the top left corner to see all the places I’ve pinned around the city— from cafés and museums to scenic viewpoints. You can turn layers on or off and click any pin to learn more about each spot. Want to keep it handy for your trip? Click the star next to the map’s title to save it to your Google account.

Then, open the Google Maps app, go to “Saved” → “Maps,” and you’ll see this map ready to guide you while you explore.

Who—or What—is Krampus?

In Alpine folklore, Krampus is the terrifying counterpart to St. Nicholas. While St. Nicholas rewards good children with gifts on December 6th, Krampus appears the night before—Krampusnacht—to frighten and punish those who misbehaved. He’s usually depicted as horned, fur-covered, with chains and a bundle of birch sticks.

The Krampus tradition has roots in pre-Christian Alpine customs and was later absorbed into Christian culture. Today, Krampus runs are living festivals where folklore, community, and pure spectacle collide.

You can read my rundown on who or what Krampus is here

Where to Stay in South Tyrol

Choosing where to stay in South Tyrol depends on the kind of trip you want. If you’re visiting for winter festivals like the Castelrotto Krampus Run or planning to ski the Seiser Alm, the best places to stay in South Tyrol are the alpine villages around Alpe di Siusi, including Castelrotto, Siusi allo Sciliar, and Ortisei in Val Gardena.

These towns offer easy access to the Dolomites, traditional Tyrolean guesthouses, family-run hotels, wellness resorts with saunas and mountain views, and convenient connections to cable cars and bus routes. For travelers who want a central base for exploring the region’s Christmas markets, food traditions, and hiking trails, staying in Bolzano or Merano works beautifully—both cities combine walkability with a wide range of accommodations, from boutique hotels to budget-friendly stays. Whether you’re looking for a spa hotel in the Dolomites, a cozy mountain lodge near Seiser Alm, or a convenient base for day trips across South Tyrol, you’ll find plenty of options that make planning your trip effortless.

Use my map below to find a hotel close to the Krampus run in Castelruth

Experiencing the Devil’s Course in Kastelruth

The Devil’s Course is not just a parade—it’s an assault on the senses. LITERALLY. When I went, the quiet streets of Kastelruth transformed into a stage of smoke, fire, and noise. Groups of Krampus, called “passes,” surged through the town, each with their own costumes and characters.

Some were classic: towering wooden masks, curled horns, thick fur. Others were creative, with glowing eyes, mechanical features, or even smoke machines hidden in their costumes. The level of detail was astonishing.

But what struck me most was the energy. These Krampus don’t just march past politely. They rattle their bells right in your face, tug at hats, or chase people down the street. Children screamed, adults laughed nervously, and the entire crowd was swept up in the frenzy.

Between groups, a concert keeps the atmosphere alive. Music, fire effects, and shouting blend together, making it feel less like a parade and more like a festival where anything could happen.