South of the Alps and in the shadow of the Dolomites you can hike through some of the
prettiest parts of South Tyrol, the main part of the tour is between the cultural capital of Tyrol, Brixen, and the provincial capital of Bozen, linking the northern Tyrolean and Southern Italian cultures. The first part of the walk goes down the Chestnut Path (“Keschtnweg”) before presenting you a view of the beautiful plateau south of the Dolomites above Bozen. You pass close to the village of Ritten, the “in” summer place for the rich from the Capital city’s residents. Vineyards and orchards line the way on the hike through one of the most beautiful areas located in the centre of the South Tyrolean wine region.
Lake Kaltern, the most famous lake in South Tyrol, is a further highlight on this route. Castles, palaces and manor houses emboss the landscape of the South Tyrolean Wine Route where numerous wineries avail a tasting of superb wines. The excellent cuisine and the amazing panorama create an unforgettable experience.

Characteristics of the route

Well marked paths are mainly signposted around the meadows and throughout the forests. The Dolomites are always in view and the paths offer no element of danger. You can use public transport on some of the routes to shorten the journey.

Highlights and places of interest along the route

• Bressanone
• Cloister Säben in Chiusa
• Typical South Tyrolean hamlets and mountain farms
• High plateau of Renon
• Lake Kalterer See
• The Provincial Capital Bolzano with its famous Arbours and Street-Fruit-Market
• Castle Sigmundskron and the Messner Mountain Museum
• Lush Orchards and thriving Vineyards along the South Tyrolean Wine Route
• Castle Schloss Tyrol and the famous Tappeinerweg
• Spa town of Merano and the promenades along the river Passer; beautiful arcades and the Botanical Gardens of Castle Trauttmansdorff

Tour programme

Day 1: Arrival in Brixen
Arrive at the hotel in Brixen. Have a look round the fascinating lanes of the town; see the cathedral and the Bishop’s Castle Residence.

Day 2: Brixen – Klausen, ascent approx. 625 m, descent approx 700 m / approx. 5 hours
From Brixen you hike up to the Pfeffersberg. You pass small hamlets and mountain farms on our way along the plateau. To the south you have a wonderful view of the Dolomite summits. You reach Feldthurns and carry on to the Säben convent, the Acropolis of South Tyrol, before arriving in the small town of Klausen. A short tour information will be held in the evening in Klausen.

Day 3: Klausen – Ritten – Bozen, ascent approx. 675 m, descent 275 m / approx. 6 hours
After a short transfer by bus to Barbian, you reach the Renon, a wonderful plateau above the Eisack Valley with impressive view of the Dolomites and the Schlern. After passing the Earth Pyramids, you can enjoy an afternoon trip in the Ritten cable car which brings you from Oberbozen back down to Bozen. In the evening you can discover this European city, a place where the Italian and South Tyrolean cultures are closely entwined.
To shorten the route you can take the cable car “Rittnerbahn” from Klobenstein to Oberbozen.

Day 4: Bozen – Lake Kaltern/surroundings, ascent approx. 550 m, descent 350 m / approx. 6-7 hours
The sunny south of South Tyrol is awaiting you! Today you will discover the area around South Tyrol’s most famous lake, Lake Kaltern, a renowned wine growing region. But here, it is not only the vineyards that impress, but also the numerous castles, manor houses, churches and farms. A must for every wine lover is a visit to the South Tyrolean wine museum in Kaltern, which gives an insight into the history of South Tyrolean wines.

Day 5: Lake Kaltern/surroundings - Tramin – Lake Kaltern/surroundings, ascent approx. 500 m, discent approx 500 m / approx. 6-7 hours
The South Tyrolean wine route: a tip for every wine lover and connoisseur. Picturesque vine yards and fascinating landscapes are accompanying you on your way. Enjoy the wonderful view from “Altenburg” over all the vineyards. The most famous wineries of the region and many of the well-known wine producers are found in this area.

Day 6: Lake Kaltern/surroundings - Lana – Meran, ascent approx. 325 m, descent 325 m / approx. 6-7 hours
After breakfast transfer to Lana. Shortly after Lana the hiking route continues along the famous Marlinger Waals – the longest irrigation ditch in South Tyrol. These irrigation ditches known as ‘Waale’ were constructed hundreds of years ago to supply dry corridors with water. Today these ditches make wonderful paths used for hiking and walking.
The route continues below Tyrol Castle along the famous ‘Tappeiner Weg’ towards Meran. The Empress Sissi knew how to appreciate the mild climate. Inviting centuries old Arbours and superb parks add to the completion of a perfect day.

Day 7: Departure
Individual departure or extension of your stay.

Minimum number of participants: 2

Inclusive services; self-guided tour:

• Accommodation in guesthouses or hotels - 3*** or a 4****star category
• Breakfast buffet or full breakfast
• If you have booked half board: minimum of 3 course evening meal
• Personal tour information in the evening of the second day in Klausen Luggage transfer from hotel to hotel
• Tickets for transfers according to the program
• Well planned routes
• Detailed documents (maps, route description, places to visit, important telephone numbers)
• Telephone service hotline for the whole tour