Discover Vinschgau/Val Venosta on foot
Hiking &
irrigation channel paths
Vinschgau/Val Venosta is a valley that invites you to hike. This is not only because of the mountains all around, but also because of the ‘Waalwege’ – historic irrigation channels, which wind gently through the landscape as peaceful hiking trails. From Mals/Malles you can get right to the heart of it all. And what makes it so special? Its diversity. In the morning you can enjoy the morning sun on a ‘Waalweg’ trail, climb a mountain peak at midday and wander through one of the many side valleys in the afternoon. And in the evening? A 4-course menu made from regional organic products awaits you at Bio Hotel Panorama. From hiking pleasure to culinary delights – this is what visiting Vinschgau/Val Venosta with us is like.
Leisurely hiking with history
‘Waalweg’ trails
‘Waalwege’ were once irrigation channels. Today, they are leisurely hiking trails that take you through orchards and along the mountain landscape. They are mostly flat and always scenic. For all those who like it steeper: mountain tours at over 3,000 metres above sea level also await you right on the doorstep.
Oberwaal Mals/Malles – the classic
A particularly beautiful hike starts right from the hotel along the Oberwaal in Mals/Malles. The trail is part of the popular Sonnensteig towards Schluderns/Sluderno and leads pleasantly above Vinschgau/Val Venosta.
Along the way, the trail connects with other idyllic ‘Waalweg’ trails: the Berkwaal and the Leitenwaal.
At the end of the tour you reach Schluderns/Sluderno. From there, the Vinschgerbahn train takes you back to Mals/Malles in complete comfort.
Bergwaal – the challenging one
The Bergwaal trail is a little more challenging and starts behind the parish church in Glurns/Glorenza. On this challenging hike – which involves almost 650 metres of elevation gain, is 13.5 km long and takes around 4.5 hours to complete – information boards about the forest and mountain pastures await you. The trail leads to the ruins of Lichtenberg Castle and into the village of Lichtenberg/Montechiaro. From there you can take the bus back.
Ackerwaal – perfect in summer
The Ackerwaal meanders high above fields and flowering meadows through the entire valley and is one of the most beautiful trails to explore the mountaineering village of Matsch/Mazia. While hiking, you’ll be treated to ever-changing views of Mount Ortler and the impressive Matsch mountains. The ‘Waal’ channel conveys water from May onwards and in summer invites you to enjoy a wonderfully scenic tour.
For all those who want to reach greater heights
Mountain tours
Those looking to gain more altitude will find a variety of mountain tours around Mals/Malles. From leisurely Alpine hikes to challenging summit ascents, there’s something for everyone. The cable cars at Watles, Belpiano-Malga San Valentino and in Sulden/Solda take you comfortably up to the heights – and from there you can start your tour.
Watles – family mountain providing panoramic views
The Watles (2,557 m above sea level) is mountain local to Mals/Malles. The chairlift takes you comfortably up to the top, where a play lake with a raft, gold panning, a barefoot water trail and a free tubing run await you. From the Plantapatschhütte hut, you can reach the idyllic Großer Pfaffensee lake in around 30 minutes – perfect for a short hike and taking a refreshing dip in summer.
Belpiano-Malga San Valentino – experience Alpine farming
The Malga di San Valentino is located at 2,040 metres above sea level and is a paradise for hiking enthusiasts. Belpiano and Malga San Valentino are connected by a panoramic trail. From the mountain stations, you can hike in all directions: towards Piz Lad, to the Sesvenna hut or simply along one of the many Alpine paths. In summer, cows graze here and the Alpine huts serve fresh cheese and bacon – this is the flavour of South Tyrol.
Spitzige Lun – fantastic views
For a hike to the Spitzige Lun, our landmark mountain (2,324 m above sea level) from Mals/Malles: many trails lead to the summit. Whether you set out straight from the hotel or from Matsch/Mazia or Planeil – via the well-marked trails and Alpine paths – everyone will find the perfect ascent for them. The tour is a beautiful scenic hike and a good option for mountain hikers with some fitness and experience.
Experience history
Themed hiking trails
Vinschgau/Val Venosta not only offers a chance to explore nature, but also history. Several themed hiking trails combine culture with exercise and turn the walk into an experience.
There are also exciting adventure and discovery trails for young and old explorers alike in the surrounding area – for example the Gumperle Animal Trail near Agums/Agumes or the Nature Experience Trail in the Schluderns Biotope.
Via Claudia Augusta Roman road
The Via Claudia Augusta was once the most important trade route between the Po Valley and southern Germany. Today a hiking trail runs along the historic route – partly on the original Roman stones. From Mals/Malles, you can hike a section and literally feel the history beneath your feet.
Cultural walk through Glurns/Glorenza
The trail through Glurns/Glorenza – Italy’s smallest town – leads through 800 years of history. The medieval city walls are completely preserved, the alleyways are winding and traces of the past can be seen everywhere. The trail from Mals/Malles to Glurns/Glorenza is around 3 kilometres long and leads through meadows and orchards.
Gumperle Animal Trail near Agums/Agumes
On the Gumperle Animal Trail, you can discover everything about our native woodland animals in a fun and playful way. Ferdinand the Forest Mouse will guide you through various tasks at 15 thrilling stations.
At the end of the tour, you can stop off at the Gasthof St. Georg in Agums/Agumes.
Schluderns Nature Adventure Trail
There are 19 stations in the Schluderns floodplains where you can explore nature in a fun way: a giant bird’s nest, a flood simulation model and lots of hands-on experiments await explorers of all ages.
The circular walk starts at the Schluderns Sports Ground and leads back to the starting point.
Practical information
For your
Hiking pleasure
Hiking maps & apps
Tabacco maps (scale 1:25,000) are available from all sports shop
Outdooractive app with GPS tracks
Compass maps for challenging tours
Lifts
Watles: Daily 8:30–17:00 (summer), 8:30–16:30 (winter)
Belpiano and Malga San Valentino: Daily 8:30–17:00
Refreshment opportunities
Many Alpine huts are open from June to October. Our recommendation: Speak to us at Reception and we’ll be happy to give you tips.
Equipment
Sturdy footwear is essential – even on ‘Waalweg’ paths. You should always have sun protection, plenty of water and a rain jacket with you. At Bio Hotel Panorama, we’re happy to advise you – we know the trails like the back of our hand.
