South Tyrol is a true paradise for hikers. From gentle alpine trails and breathtaking circular routes to challenging summit ascents, the region offers a wide range of hiking experiences. Whether you’re looking for relaxing panoramic walks or demanding mountain adventures, here are 17 of the most stunning hikes in South Tyrol:

• Dolomite Highlights (4)
• Merano & Vinschgau Region (3)
• Eisack Valley & Surroundings (3)
• Vineyard Hikes (2)
• Lake Hikes (2)
• Waterfall & Gorge Hikes (3)

Dolomite Highlights (4)

1. Tre Cime di Lavaredo Loop

The Tre Cime di Lavaredo loop takes you around the iconic Dolomite peaks, offering stunning panoramic views and an immersive alpine experience. A must for anyone wanting to witness the Dolomites in all their glory.

• Duration: 4–5 hours
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Start/End Point: Rifugio Auronzo (Parking lot)

2. Seiser Alm Circular Hike

Seiser Alm is a hiker’s paradise, featuring rolling hills and a breathtaking backdrop of the Dolomites. This route provides stunning views of the Schlern and Langkofel mountain groups.

• Duration: 2–3 hours
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate
• Start/End Point: Seiser Alm (Accessible via cable car from Seis, by car or shuttle bus; road closures may apply from 9 AM to 5 PM in peak season.)

3. Villnöss Alpine Pastures Loop

This trail leads through the picturesque Villnöss Valley, framed by the towering Geisler Peaks. A perfect mix of easy strolls and more demanding sections.

From the parking lot, follow trail no. 6 towards Tschantschenon until you reach the bridge that crosses the Tschantschenon stream. Before this bridge, the Adolf Munkel Trail (no. 35) starts to climb to the right to the Gschnagenhardtalm and the Geisleralm, where you can stop for refreshments. Continue on trail no. 36 to the Dusler Alm and back to Zans.

• Duration: 2–3 hours
• Difficulty: Easy
• Start/End Point: Zanser Alm (Parking lot)

4. Plattkofel Circuit

A thrilling hike circling the distinctive Plattkofel peak, offering spectacular views of the Dolomites. Ideal for those seeking an immersive mountain experience.

Start with a lift ride from Saltria to the Williamshütte. Continue on foot up to the Plattkofel Hütte, the starting point. The high-altitude promenade (Friedrich-August-Weg) leads along to the east. These huts await you along the way: Sandro Pertini Hut, Friedrich August Hut, T. Salèi Hut and the Sella Pass House, all of which offer South Tyrolean dishes. From Passo Sella, you can then take a narrow path or the cable car up to the Toni Demetz hut. The way back leads past the Langkofel hut via the northern foot of the Plattkofel back to the starting point.

• Duration: 7–9 hours
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Start/End Point: Saltria (Parking lot)

Merano & Vinschgau Region (3)

1. Schenna Waalweg

A scenic walk through Schenna with panoramic views of Merano, following an ancient irrigation channel amid apple orchards and vineyards.

• Duration: 2–3 hours
• Difficulty: Easy
• Start/End Point: Schenna

2. Vigiljoch & Hochwart

A moderate adventure offering breathtaking views over Merano and the Etschtal valley.

• Duration: 4–5 hours
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Start/End Point: Vigiljoch Cable Car (Parking available)

3. Merano High Trail

One of South Tyrol’s most famous multi-day treks, winding through diverse landscapes and charming villages around Merano.

• Duration: 5–7 days (depending on stages)
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Start/End Point: Dorf Tirol – Merano – Dorf Tirol

Eisack Valley & Surroundings (3)

1. Earth Pyramids Trail

A fascinating hike to the unique Earth Pyramids of Ritten, a remarkable natural phenomenon.

• Duration: 1–2 hours
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate
• Start/End Point: Oberbozen (Ritten)

2. Oberbozen Hike

A scenic route from Bolzano to the Ritten Plateau, offering panoramic views of the Dolomites and the vineyards of South Tyrol.

• Duration: 2–3 hours
• Difficulty: Easy
• Start/End Point: Bolzano St. Magdalena

3. Radlsee & Königsangerspitze

A challenging ascent to Königsangerspitze, rewarding hikers with a breathtaking panorama over the Eisack Valley.

Start from the parking lot on the gravel path in the direction of Königsanger, then turn off onto a narrower forest path. The path first leads through the forest, then past alpine meadows to Brugger Schupfe and Glanger Kasolm. Continue on trail no. 10. At the fork in the trail at the summit or Radlseehütte, continue on trail no. 10 A towards the summit. After 2 hours you will reach the summit. Return the same way.

• Duration: 5–6 hours
• Difficulty: Moderate to difficult
• Start/End Point: Garner Wetterkreuz (Parking lot)

Vineyard Hikes (2)

1. Kaltern Vineyard Walk

A delightful hike through the renowned vineyards of Kaltern, with scenic views of the Kalterer See.

• Duration: 2–3 hours
• Difficulty: Easy
• Start/End Point: Kaltern

2. Brixen Vineyard Trail

A relaxing trail through Brixen’s vineyards, offering stunning views of the historic old town and the surrounding mountains.

• Duration: 2–3 hours
• Difficulty: Easy
• Start/End Point: Brixen

Lake Hikes (2)

1. Pragser Wildsee Loop

One of South Tyrol’s most iconic lakes, with a scenic circular trail around its emerald-green waters, framed by the Dolomites.

• Duration: 1–1.5 hours
• Difficulty: Easy
• Start/End Point: Pragser Wildsee (Parking lot)

2. Karersee & Latemar Circuit

A picturesque hike around the legendary Karersee, offering mesmerizing reflections of the Latemar mountains.

• Duration: 2–3 hours
• Difficulty: Easy
• Start/End Point: Karersee (Parking lot)

Waterfall & Gorge Hikes (3)

1. Partschins Waterfall Loop

A scenic trail leading to the stunning Partschins Waterfall, winding through lush forests.

• Duration: 2 hours
• Difficulty: Easy
• Start/End Point: Gasthaus Wasserfall (Parking lot)

2. Gilfenklamm Gorge Trail

A dramatic walk through the Gilfenklamm Gorge, where rushing waterfalls carve through narrow rock formations.

• Duration: 1.5–2 hours
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Start/End Point: Stange (Parking lot)

3. Bletterbach Canyon Loop

Dubbed the “Grand Canyon of South Tyrol,” this trail offers a fascinating journey through striking geological formations.

• Duration: 3–4 hours
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Start/End Point: Bletterbach (Parking lot)

Our conclusion: South Tyrol offers an unparalleled hiking experience, from leisurely walks along ancient irrigation channels to breathtaking high-altitude adventures. Whether you seek relaxation or excitement, these trails promise unforgettable encounters with nature.

Which of these hikes have you done? Share your experiences in the comments! 😊