Summer in Val Passiria: Trails, sports and unspoiled nature
Surrounded by the Tessa Group Nature Park, Val Passiria is the perfect destination for summer holidays. Just a few kilometres from Merano, the capital of the Burgraviato area, this valley is a true paradise for hikers, athletes and families, thanks to its over 300 km of trails, wide range of outdoor activities and spectacular Alpine scenery.
Trails for every step
Val Passiria boasts one of the largest hiking networks in South Tyrol, suitable for both high-mountain enthusiasts and those seeking more relaxing walks.
For experienced hikers
- Merano High Route (No. 24) – 80 km long, it crosses the Tessa Group Nature Park in 6–7 days of walking. A true panoramic traverse among mountain huts, alpine farms and peaks.
- Tyrol High Route – From Mayrhofen to Merano, 130 km, 12 summits, 9,000 m of ascent and 10,000 m of descent: an epic challenge for expert hikers.
- European Trail E5 – The section that crosses Val Passiria starts from the Timmelsjoch Pass and leads to Bolzano in about 6 hours: a journey through history and Alpine landscapes.
For everyone
- Farm-to-farm walks: guided by local farmers, you can experience traditional mountain life up close.
- Walks through orchards: a tour through South Tyrol’s apple plantations to discover the secrets of this symbolic fruit of the valley.
Cable cars and easy access to the mountains
To easily reach higher altitudes, you can count on two modern lift systems:
- Hirzer Cable Car: from Saltusio to the Monte Cervina plateau
- Grünboden Express Gondola: from Plan, from 1,601 to 2,001 metres in just 3.18 minutes
Outdoor activities for all ages
Families & hikers
- Marked trails of easy or medium difficulty
- Nordic walking: dedicated paths for healthy and rhythmic exercise
Mountain bike lovers
- Routes of varying difficulty
- Possibility of guided tours on two wheels
Sports and adrenaline in Val Passiria
For those seeking excitement, the valley offers truly unique experiences:
Climbing
- 5 natural rock faces
- 2 indoor climbing gyms: in San Martino and San Leonardo
Rafting
Descents on medium and high-difficulty rapids, always accompanied by expert guides
Tandem flights
No athletic preparation required — just a short run-up to take off and enjoy unforgettable views from above.
Golf among the orchards of the Burgraviato
In San Leonardo you’ll find the modern Golfclub Passiria.Merano, now featuring 18 holes. The mild climate of the valley allows play from February to December, making it one of the most accessible golf courses in South Tyrol.
From high-altitude trekking to family outings, from mountain biking to paragliding, summer in Val Passiria is a blend of nature, culture and adventure — all just a few steps from Merano.
