Vinschgau/Val Venosta on two wheels
Biking & cycling
The Via Claudia Augusta runs through the entire Vinschgau/Val Venosta. Cosy, family-friendly, steeped in history. The Via Claudia Augusta is more than a cycling route – it is history on two wheels. The old Roman road once led from the Po Valley across the Alps to southern Germany. Today, it is one of Europe’s most popular long-distance cycle routes and passes directly by Mals/Malles. The Vinschgau/Val Venosta section is flat, family-friendly and completely asphalted or gravelled. You cycle through apple orchards, past medieval villages, always with views of the mountains. The route is perfect for e-bikes, child trailers and anyone who wants to relax and enjoy the scenery.
From Mals/Malles to Meran/Merano
Via Claudia Augusta
The section from Mals/Malles to Meran/Merano – through the heart of South Tyrol – is around 70 kilometres long and takes you through the entire Vinschgau/Val Venosta. The route is mostly flat, with only a few inclines – ideal for a relaxed day trip. Tip: Plan enough time for breaks. Our favourite? The fish pond in Prad/Prato.
In the other direction, the Via Claudia Augusta leads from Vinschgau/Val Venosta over the Reschen Pass to Tyrol. It is around 20 kilometres from Mals/Malles to Lake Reschensee – a section with some climbs before you conquer the 500 m altitude difference. At the lake, you can admire the sunken church tower and stop off at one of the restaurants.
For all those who like things to be fast-paced
Mountain bike trails
Those who prefer to travel off the beaten track will find a huge network of MTB trails in Vinschgau/Val Venosta – from flowing forest paths to challenging single trails. Particularly popular: the 3-country enduro trails, which run through Italy, Austria and Switzerland. These are among the most spectacular MTB routes in the Alps. Several routes lead from high Alpine passes down into the valley – over roots, stones and steep hairpin bends. The trails are technically demanding and only suitable for experienced bikers. In return, they offer a biking experience that is second to none.
Popular trails
- Plamort Trail: start at the Reschen Pass, 1,200 metres downhill, flowing sections with spectacular views
- Watles Trail: From the Watles mountain station down into the valley, well developed and suitable for advanced beginners
Reaching new heights on an e-mountain bike
Alpine pasture tours
The mountain landscape can also be conquered with e-mountain bikes. These allow you to easily reach Alpine pastures and mountain passes, which are otherwise only accessible on foot or by cable car. You should be confident handling your e-bike safely, especially when riding downhill. Some passages require good braking control and experience in riding on gravel or mountain paths.
Popular e-mountain bike tours
- Sesvenna Hut: 1,200 metres elevation gain, 20 km, fantastic views of the Sesvenna Alps
- Schliniger Alm circuit: 800 metres elevation gain, 15 km, with an option to take a refreshment stop
- Haider Alm tour: 700 metres elevation gain, flowing forest trails, refreshments available in the Alpine pasture
- Planeiler Alm tour: 1,250 metres elevation gain, 26 km, challenging
- Matscher Alm tour: 1,580 metres of elevation gain, 46 km, views of the Ortler Alps and the Reschen Pass
for asphalt enthusiasts
Road bike
Road cyclists will also find plenty to enjoy in Vinschgau/Val Venosta. The passes around Mals/Malles are among the classics of Alpine cycling: Stilfserjoch pass , Reschen Pass, Ofen Pass. Steep climbs, long descents, spectacular views – this is what makes road bike cyclists’ hearts beat faster.
Stilfserjoch pass – the toughest stage
At 2,758 metres, the Stilfserjoch pass is the second highest road pass in the Alps. The ascent from Prad/Prato is legendary: 48 hairpin bends, 1,800 metres of elevation gain, 24 kilometres. The descent is just as spectacular – but be careful, the hairpin bends are challenging!
The car-free cycling day takes place every year in September – when the pass road belongs entirely to cyclists.
Reschen Pass – the gentle introduction
The Reschen Pass (1,508 m) is significantly more relaxed than the Stilfserjoch pass. From Mals/Malles, it’s 400 metres of elevation gain over 15 kilometres – a moderate ascent that even ambitious hobby cyclists can master. Lake Reschensee with its famous sunken church tower awaits at the top.
Ofen Pass – over to the Engadin
The Ofen Pass connects Vinschgau/Val Venosta with the Swiss Engadin. From Mals/Malles, you reach the pass via Münstertal valley – a challenging but scenic route. Once at the top, a detour to S-chanf or St. Moritz is well worth it.
Biking all year round
Seasonal highlights
Spring01
Apple blossom & first tours
Most cycling routes are passable again from April. The apple blossom transforms the valley into a sea of white flowers – perfect for leisurely tours on the Via Claudia Augusta. The passes are usually still closed until May, but conditions in the valley are ideal.
Summer02
High Alpine pastures & enduro fun
In summer, the high Alpine trails open. Now is the best time for enduro tours, Alpine pasture rides and mountain pass tours. The temperatures are pleasant, the days long – perfect for extended bike adventures.
Autumn03
Golden larches & clear views
Autumn is the most beautiful biking season in Vinschgau/Val Venosta. The air is clear, the distant views stretch as far as the glaciers and the larches glow golden yellow. The passes are still open, the trails dry – it couldn’t be better!
Winter04
Fat biking & winter cycling
You can also cycle in winter! Many trails are groomed, and you can even glide through the snow on a fat bike. A very special experience for all those who don’t want to give up cycling even during the cold season.
Practical information
For your
holiday on 2 wheels
Bike garage at Bio Hotel Panorama
- Every bike parking space has a socket for charging
- Secure, video-monitored
- Air pump
- Washing area for your bikes
Bike rental & service
- Several rental shops in Mals/Malles (e-bikes, MTBs, road bikes)
- Guided tours with local guides, such as Vinschgaubike or Südtirolbike
- Bike workshops for repairs
Cable cars with bike transport
- Watles: Bikes allowed (for an extra charge)
- Schöneben/Belpiano: Bikes allowed
- Reschen Pass: Bus transfer with bike trailer
Maps & apps for your tour planning
- Bikemap.net: Routes & GPS tracks for download
- Komoot: Detailed tour planning with community ratings
- Vinschgau/Val Venosta bike map: Available at the hotel or from the Vinschgau/Val Venosta Tourist Board
Best time to visit
- Via Claudia: April–October
- MTB trails: June–September
- Road bike passes: June–October (Stilfserjoch pass often only open from June)
