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Hiking

Partschins Irrigation Channel Path (Waalweg) – Zielbach Loop Walk

Partschins/Parcines, Meran/Merano and environs
Varied circular walk from Partschins along the Zielbach stream and the historic irrigation channel path, featuring birch groves, flowing water and prehistoric sites.
from center

The Partschins irrigation channel path is one of the oldest in the Burgraviato region, built in the 15th century by the Counts of Stachlburg. Still used today to irrigate local orchards, the route combines cultivated landscapes, shaded birch groves, open views and remarkable prehistoric sites. A varied circular walk for nature lovers and those interested in history alike.

Itinerary

Tour Start

Partschins/Parcines, village center

Tour End

Partschins/Parcines, village center

Partschins – Winklerhof – Salten – Partschins irrigation channel path – Vertigen – Partschins

The starting point and destination of this walk is the village centre of Partschins. From here, the route heads west along Sonnenberg Street, passing through orchards to reach the suspension bridge (Hottlbrugg). After crossing the bridge, the path continues to the Winklerhof wine tavern, offering lovely views over the valley.

From the Winklerhof, the route follows trail 1, which climbs gently along the Zielbach stream towards Salten. After crossing the road, the signs for Waterfall / Legends Trail are followed upstream for about five minutes. The path then turns right and continues to the entrance of the Partschins irrigation channel path.

This marks the most distinctive section of the loop: the historic irrigation channel runs peacefully through light birch groves and rich vegetation. Accompanied by the soothing sound of spring water, the walk continues eastwards to the end of the channel.

At the eastern end, fascinating traces of early settlement can be discovered, including a prehistoric dwelling stone and a Bronze Age cup-marked stone. The return route follows trail 7A downhill via Vertigen, leading back to the village centre of Partschins, where the loop walk ends.

Distance 4.8 Km
Duration 1h:34 min
Elevation gain 194 m
Elevation loss 194 m
Highest point 813 m
Lowest point 619 m
Details

Variants
- Variant with legend trail and prehistoric cult and settlement sites (extension of the hike by approx. 1 hour)
- Variant with bus n° 265 in the direction of the waterfall / get off at the Salten bus stop (time saving approx. 30 minutes)

Highlights
- Sights in the centre of Parcines with Peter Mitterhofer typewriter museum, Stachlburg manor house
- Prehistoric settlement and cultural sites on the Waalweg (or with the legend trail variant - see above)

Directions

The starting points of our hiking tours can be reached comfortably and in an environmentally friendly way by bus and train. With the South Tyrol Guest Pass, all public transport throughout South Tyrol can be used free of charge – no need to search for parking. Tip: timetables and connections are available at www.suedtirolmobil.info.

Parking

Parking options in Partschins are limited. In order to protect the local natural area and support sustainable travel, we recommend using public transport. Thank you for helping to protect this area!

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