Hiking trails in Sterzing/Vipiteno and environs

Discover the Bee Trail in Trens, an enchanting journey into the world of bees. Starting at the cultural center in the heart of Trens, this delightful two-kilometer path winds through serene forests and meadows, leading south to Valgenäun. Along the way, informative boards provide fascinating insights into the life of bees and the creation of honey and other bee products. Learn the differences between a queen and a drone, understand why bees are essential to our cultural landscapes, and discover if it’s true that bees travel 150,000 km to produce 1 kg of honey. These and many other intriguing questions are answered along the trail.

In 2024, the Bee Trail was revamped with interactive stations and new content, making it even more engaging and family-friendly. Children and adults alike can enjoy playful exploration through activities like a memory game, a bee swing, a "hug-a-bee" station, and a relaxing area with wooden loungers. 

This project, brought to life by the Sterzing Pfitsch Freienfeld Tourism Cooperative, offers locals and visitors a captivating leisure activity, fosters collaboration between agriculture and tourism, and introduces a fresh, exciting recreational option in the Sterzing area.

The trail is also perfectly suitable for strollers, ensuring everyone can enjoy the experience. For refreshments, you can stop by Gasthof Post or Moidls Lokäischn.

Starting point: mountain station Rosskopf Monte Cavallo (1.860m)
The cable car (valley station near the north park in Vipiteno) takes you to the mountain of Vipiteno. Leave the mountain station and follow on your right the marked trails: “Kastellacke”, “Flaner Jöchl” or “Vallminger Almen”. After approx. 15 minutes of walking time you finally reach the mountain hut Sternhütte above the mountain station.
Alternative: by foot to the Rosskopf Monte Cavallo: starting point is the valley station of the Rosskopf Monte Cavallo cable car. Follow path no. 19 or no. 23 through a shady forest and over serpentines to a forest path. Continue to the mountain station. From there follow the trails “Kastellacke”, “Flaner Jöchl” or “Vallminger Almen” until you reach the mountain hut Sternhütte.
Tip: children’s playground and sunbathing area, on Sundays spear ribs

The varied Rosskopf Circular Hike is a highlight in this valley of trails. The family-friendly hike leads up to the panoramic platform at the summit of the Rosskopf (2,168 m, "Little Head (Köpfl)") with fantastic views of the South Tyrolean mountains. From the summit, you walk along the crest to the Ochsenscharte saddle and then to the right through the remote and romantic Vallemingtal valley down to the three Alpine huts of the Valleming Alpine-farm village. This hike goes past the Kastellacke biotope and the Rossy Park, a mini-zoo with llamas, mountain goats and hares, back to the starting point.

The hike along a via crucis connects the villages Stilves and Dosso. Enjoy a comfortable ascent through the forest along the various crucifixion stations. Itinerary: By the fire station of Stilves on the trail 15, passing by the upper sports field, over the stations of the “Via Crucis”, up to the Egg hamlet (1500m). Return on the same trail. Lunch possibilities: Gasthaus Egg, Gasthaus Schönblick.

By the Stein hamlet following trail 3 upwards through the wood, along steep serpentines to flater pastures, cutting the forrestal road to the joke, to the Pfitscherjoch mountain hut. Furtheron on trail 3 (Landshuter Tiroler Höhenweg) with a splendid mountain view all along to the Europahütte mountain hut (2693m). Lunch possibilities: Europahütte, Pfitscherjochhaus, Gasthof Stein

Starting from Flading at the end of the Ratschingstal , walk first through a forest ascending on path no. 12. Then steep over meadows to the pasture Klammalm (1925m). From there forward on path no. 12B over meadows until the climb beneath the summit gets steep. On it up to the summit of the Kleine Kreuzspitze with summit cross. The return follows the same route as the ascent.  Exposed and brittle rocky ridge! Surefootedness necessary!

The winter hiking trail in Ladurns offers a romantic tour through the stunning mountain landscape of the Pflerschtal Valley in South Tyrol, within the Stubai Alps. Along the way, there are breathtaking views of the mighty Tribulaun on the opposite side of the valley. The starting point is the middle station of the Ladurns cable car. From there, the path gently ascends to the mountain station of the gondola. At the mountain station, there are two places to stop for refreshment (Ladurnerhütte and Pfeiferhuisilehütte).

Start in St. Anton/S. Antonio in Pflersch/Fleres. Follow the indications to the "Allrissalm". We arrive after an hour at the pasture.

For those looking to try a new and easy hiking trail, the route from St. Anton in Innerpflersch to the Allrissalm is ideal. The trail starts in the valley floor at 1215 m and follows the sign for "Allriss" southwards. First, you cross the river on a wide bridge and then continue on the road towards Stein/Sasso, until you reach a fork in the road where you turn left. The marked hiking trail 27 leads you along a wide forest road or the old footpath, which ascends through the steep forest slopes to the Allrissalm at 1534 m, where you’ll find a cozy place to rest.

The trail is perfect for families and is also suitable for strollers or bicycles. With an ascent time of about one hour and a 45-minute descent, this hike offers a simple yet beautiful nature experience. The Allriss Alm is a great opportunity to relax and enjoy traditional, delicious dishes – a perfect spot for a relaxing break during your outing.

Starting point: park area Stein/Sasso (1.350m) or park area "Hölle/All'inferno" (1.450m)
Version 1: starting from Stein/Sasso in Pflersch/Fleres walking towards the valley on the sunny side over the easily accessible pasture path in direction to the mountain pasture Furtalm. Version 2: over the forest path, underneath the Steinhöfe turn left and continue until you reach the mountain pasture Furtalm/Malga Furt. Version 3: from the gate following the signpost “Pflerscher Hölle” on your right and from there you reach the destination over a pasture path after approx. 45 minutes. Tip: special location at the valley basin, hiking tour for families, handmade products.

The starting point of this beautiful hike is the parking lot in Stein, Innerpflersch at 1,350 m. You can choose from three different routes:

• Option 1: Hike along the sunny side of the valley via the Waterfall Trail No. 6 towards Furtalm, reaching it in about 1.5 hours.
• Option 2: For a shorter route, follow the wide forest path 6B, below the Steinhöfe, where you turn left after about an hour to reach Furtalm.
• Option 3: From the barrier, take the path on the right marked to the "Pflerscher Hölle." From here, you’ll reach the Furtalm in about 45 minutes via the alptrail.

The Furtalm is located in a quaint basin, offering a perfect spot for a break. Enjoy homemade products, and it's an excellent family-friendly hike. For an even more immersive nature experience, combine the hike with a visit to the "Hölle" Waterfall and its new viewing platform.

The hike to the Enzianhütte starts about 1.5 km south of Brennerbad (1310 m) on the Brennerstreet, where a signposted access road (sign "Enzianhütte") branches off. After passing under the highway, the path first goes left and then through the forest, leading you up to the meadows of Kreithof (1391 m). From there, continue on foot in gentle switchbacks through the forest to the hut "Ziroger Alm" (1762 m). The path continues through open slopes and finally reaches the hut Enzianhütte (1894 m), a private and managed mountain hut. The descent can be done either on foot (approx. 1.5 hours) or by sleigh.

During the winter season 2024/25, the hut Enzianhütte will be closed, and there will be no opportunity for refreshments.

Experience an exciting hike from St. Anton in Innerpflersch (1215 m) up to the idyllic Allrisalm (1534 m). The trail first takes you southwards over a wide bridge in the direction of the hamlet of Stein and then branches off on a pleasant prepared winter path and historic footpaths through the idyllic forest slopes. After about an hour, you will reach the Allrisalm, where you can enjoy a warm drink and delicious food while enjoying the marvellous view. The descent takes you back the same way - either on foot in around 45 minutes or on a sledge for even more fun!
The hike is also ideal for families.

By the 3rd turn follow the trail 1 upwards, passing by the old mountain huts and following the trail along the hillside through the valley. On the serpentines upwards the grass slope to the Hochfeiler mountain hut (2715m). Lunch possibility: Hochfeilerhütte mountain hut.

Cutting through pure white marble, which used to be coveted by stonemasons from all over the world and which shimmers here in every conceivable shade of green, the otherwise peaceful Ratschinger Bach stream becomes a raging torrent. By going down steep steps and over narrow bridges, you can get right down to the heart of the gorge, where a breathtaking natural scene awaits. The lower entrance to the Gilfenklamm gorge is in Stange/Stanghe, from where you walk along a level hiking trail to the entrance to the gorge, where the trail begins to climb gradually over bridges and along well-secured trails. Storming and raging, the wild waters of the Ratschinger stream tumble over numerous waterfalls, forcing themselves through narrow chasms between the steep cliff walls, which ensure that at the lowest, most impressive point - the so-called "church" - even the most dazzling sunshine is dimmed. Going from one bridge to another and up and down steps, you finally reach the end of the gorge. If you take your time, have good shoes and a camera, this hike is a memorable experience for all the family.

Open daily from 09.00 -17.00 (July and August 09.00-18.00)

Open from May 17, 2024 to November 03, 2024

The Dolomieu Trail goes across six mountain pastures from the Rosskopf mountain in Sterzing / Vipiteno via Ladurns into the Pflerschtal valley. Enjoy beautiful panoramic views of the Dolomites from Rosskopf and hike past the idyllic Alpine village of Valleming towards the Pflerschtal valley where Deodat de Dolomieu discovered the dolomite rock at the foot of the Tribulaun mountain.

Easy winter hiking trail for the whole Family in Wiesen newar Sterzing / Vipiteno with a wonderful panoramic view.

Starting point: Village Brennerbad/Terme di Brennero, at the one-time valley station Zirog/Zirago (1.320m)
The mountain hut is located southwards the Brenner/Brennero and offers shelter and food. The path leads past the old cable car station over a little bridge on path no. 4 to the mountain pasture Badalm and forwards following the signpost “Enzianhütte 4a” to the mountain hut Enzianhütte/Rifugio Genziana.

By the parking lot in St. Jakob in Pfitsch Valley near Sterzing / Vipiteno over the bridge and on the left side along trail 9 to the Moaßl waterfall. Suitable for strollers.

Easy family hiking tour from Stilves to the Rofis Boden wood play ground. Start in Stilves and along the road in direction Niederried/Novale Bassa. Soon after leaving the village along the trail 17 on the right side upwards to the Rofis Boden. Along the forestal road you will arrive to the Rofis Boden also with a stroller. Lunch possibility: Restaurant Hotel Wieser

“Feel nature” – is literally the aim of the ca. 400m long barefoot path at Ratschings/Racines. Barefoot through nature, feeling fully aware different materials, like grass, sand, pebbles, marble of Ratschings, wood in all types and the natural forest soil and its quality. Try out the difference between rough and pleasant materials, the equilibration by balancing and enjoy a natural foot reflexology at the Kneipp-route at the river Ratschingerbach with hot stones and cold water. Walk barefoot is a sensual pleasure for old and young and provides significant health benefits, stimulates the organism and our immune system.

Starting point: mountain station Rosskopf Monte Cavallo (1.860m)
The cable car Rosskopf Monte Cavallo (valley station near the north park in Vipiteno) takes you to the leisure mountain. From the mountain station follow the marked trail no. 19 until you reach the Sterzinger Haus, which is situated above the mountain station.
Alternative: by foot to the Rosskopf Monte Cavallo: starting from the valley station of the cable car Rosskopf Monte Cavallo, follow path no. 19 or no. 23. Continue through a shady forest over serpentines and further on to the mountain station. From there follow path no. 24 uphill to the mountain hut Sterzinger Haus.

Above the Braunhof farm near Schmuders on the trail 3 in direction to the Weisse Spitze summit. Furtheron on the forestal road for a little while and descent on the left to the Prantneralm mountain inn (1780m). Alternativ: ascent on the forestal road, suitable for strollers. Lunch possibility: Prantneralm, Braunhof

We start in the village of Gasteig/Casateia, cross the main road and go along the Mühlbachlweg trail as far as the signposts. We then follow the trail up the valley towards Stange/Stanghe. At first, a well-marked but narrow trail takes us through an interesting forest with a number of inviting benches to rest on. Soon the trail becomes wider and the scenery more varied: a river biotope, a newly-planted forest, low-growing mixed woodland and meadows. At Stange we go over a bridge and walk along the tarmac cycle path to Mareit/Mareta. If you wish, you can walk to the square by the church where an interesting nature trail begins. Exploring the themes of woodland and water, it takes you past the castle (open for visitors). The return is along the same route. You can also start the hike in Stanghe, which shortens it by about an hour. Quality of the trail: for a short distance, narrow, then wider and tarmac to Stanghe. All types of buggy. Things to see on the way: South Tyrol’s rock garden, museum at Wolfsthurn Castle (Schloss Wolfsthurn), Woodland & Water hiking/nature trail.

Winter hiking trail in the natural Pfitsch valley, a real winter wonderland.

This contemplative walk starts in Silbergasse and takes you gently up to the Mooshöfe farms. There, the path climbs steeply to the right and then heads south through the forest towards the railway line. Past the ‘Jagglkapelle’ chapel, the trail continues to the ‘Ploserkreuz’ cross, where you pass through a narrow railway subway. This takes you towards the Pflersch river. The path crosses the road from Pflersch and finally leads to the Maria-Hilf chapel in Außerpflersch. You can return to Gossensass along the riverside promenade. Or you can continue right along the cycle path to the church path to Ladurns.
The perfect walk for a relaxing afternoon.

Starting point: park area a few meters after the Braunhof (1.350m) in Schmuders near Prati.
From the inn Braunhof near Schmuders follow the marked trail no. 3 on good forest paths upward the mountain pasture Prantneralm. From there a forest path leads to the mountain pasture Riedbergalm.
Tip: handmade yoghurt, alpine cheese, children’s playground, accessible by car

Start by the Fußendras hamlet along trail 17 through the Droßberg valley on the steady ascending trail to the Drosberg mountain hut (1933m, no service).

From Sterzing, drive on the state road towards Brenner. After about 4 km, you will reach the village of Gossensass. Continue on the road for another 3 km until you reach a sharp S-curve (first a right turn, then a left turn). In the left curve, you will find an exit for the highway on the right, and right next to it, a narrow asphalted road. Follow this road for about 800 m to reach the DAX parking lot. From there, continue on foot along a forest road to the hut.

Variant:
The starting point is the Gossensass parking lot in the town center at Ibsen Square (1,098 m). From Ibsen Square, the trail leads north to the Raiffeisen Bank, where you cross the pedestrian crossing to reach the "Alte Postgasse" Alley. Then, head east, climbing uphill, passing the Aparthotel Pichler on the left. At the intersection, you will find the trail signs, and from there, Trail No. 22 leads up to the mountain hut Hühnerspielhütte (1,868 m).

For those looking to explore a new, refreshing path, a visit to Redwitzplatz in Gossensass is perfect. The trail begins by crossing the river of Pflerscher at the sports field, then turning right into the wonderful river promenade. Right at the start of this promenade, a small path to the left leads you to Redwitzplatz, where the healing iron spring is located – a true gem for nature and health enthusiasts. From here, various routes open up, leading to Gottschalkweg trail, Vallmingalm hut, or back to the river promenade.

To get there, you can park at the Gossensass train station parking lot, just 10 minutes away. From there, the path takes you through the pedestrian underpass, then turning right into the valley and left at the second side street, heading towards the forest. The football field is visible from a distance, serving as a landmark.

A special highlight at Redwitzplatz is the new barefoot trail, allowing you to connect with the earth naturally – a refreshing and relaxing experience. The area is perfect for relaxation or enjoying a picnic surrounded by nature. If you’re looking for a varied outing in a beautiful setting, this is the place for you.

Starting point: mountain station Rosskopf Monte Cavallo (1.860m)
The cable car Rosskopf / Monte Cavallo (valley station near the north park in Sterzing / Vipiteno) takes you to the mountain staton. Leave the mountain station and follow the trails “Kastellacke” or “Flaner Jöchl”. After about 20 minutes of walking time you reach the mountain hut Furlhütte.
Alternative: by foot to the leisure mountain: starting from the valley station of the cable car Rosskopf Monte Cavallo on path no. 19 or no. 23, continue through a shady forest and along serpentines to a forest path until you reach the mountain station. From there follow the trails “Kastellacke” or “Flaner Jöchl” to the mountain hut Furlhütte.
Tip: “Blattler mit Kraut”, sunbathing area, Indian dishes on reservation, children’s playground

A real adventure for the whole family awaits you on this exciting hike in the Pflersch Valley! You start at the car park in St. Anton and follow the asphalt footpath to the Hotel Feuerstein. Here, turn right over a bridge and continue along a narrow forest path that winds gently uphill. Passing the picturesque farms of Außerstein, you reach the impressive waterfall trail, which takes you to four spectacular waterfalls - Trommelbachfall, Gansörbachfall, Mesnerbachfälle and Koggrabenfall. The sound of the water and the rich nature create a magical atmosphere!

Once you arrive at the ‘Hölle’ car park (1400 m), a special viewpoint with a view of the famous ‘Hölle’ waterfall awaits you. There's plenty for little adventurers to discover here! If you still haven't had enough, you can continue the hike and climb up to the Furtalm (1690 m), formerly known as the Ochsenalm, in around an hour. A perfect destination for a short break in the middle of the unspoilt mountain landscape.

The way back then takes you either along the same route back to St. Anton or via trail no. 6. An unforgettable experience for the whole family, combining nature and adventure!