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    South Tyrol’s Waalwege Canal Trails

    Canals known as "Waale" were built centuries ago to irrigate meadows and fields. When rainfall was scarce, water was diverted from streams into the higher valleys. This ancient irrigation technique is predominantely seen in the area around Meran/Merano and Vinschgau/Val Venosta. See it for yourself during a tranquil stroll along the Canal Trails. Interestingly, the Waalwege canal trails located on the Malser Haide in Obervinschgau are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

    Results
    Hiking
    Ramini Irrigation channel path
    Latsch/Laces, Vinschgau/Val Venosta
    Small works of art await you along the old irrigation channels.
    We start in Tarres just above the picturesque village and turn right into the so-called Raminiwaal - Ramini irrigation cannel path with trail number 18. On our journey of discovery of the small works of art in and around the water, we also enjoy the view of Laces and the surrounding area. We cross the ‘Laces Valley’ and now follow trail number 18 A through the lush green mixed forest to the IceForum in Laces. Then follow the main road into the centre. You can then get back to Tarres by bus 269 or alternatively via the old Tarres road number 1 (watch out for the steep section).
    Difficulty: easy
    0 altitude up
    0h:54 min duration
    More details
    Hiking
    Neuwaal irrigation channel path
    Latsch/Laces, Vinschgau/Val Venosta
    In the footsteps of the ancient rock paintings of the Waaler.
    We start at the IceForum in Laces and follow trail no. 5 to the Margrinböden picnic area. There we enjoy the view over the castle ruins of Ober- & Untermontani. We then continue to the fork in the path where we follow path number 5a downhill to the Bierkeller. From there, the route leads through the orchards along the tarmac road back to the starting point. Variation: if you prefer a longer walk, you can descend from the Marginböden via the ruins of Ober- & Untermontani Castle and walk back along the irrigation channel path Mareinwaal via the Bierkeller.
    Difficulty: easy
    177 altitude up
    1h:26 min duration
    More details
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      The path along the water was originally reserved for the "Waaler" (water keeper), who was responsible for the maintenance of the Waal and controlled that each farmer only took the amount of water he was entitled to from the Waal for a certain time. Today, the flat paths along the water are popular walking trails. Through forests, past apple orchards or vineyards, you can experience South Tyrol's cultural landscape up close on the Waal paths. In 2022, the traditional irrigation system of the Malser Haide was awarded the "Green Flag". This important award is given every year by the Italian environmental association "Legambiente" for innovative practices and systems that stand for high ecological, scenic and cultural quality.