Alpine huts and mountains
“Pfandler Alm” und “Passeierer Höhenweg”
In St. Martin there are a lot of things to discover. The resort is also an excellent starting point for relaxing walks and hikes in the closer surroundings. Both the well-known ‘Pfandler Alm’ Alpine pasture, an ideal destination for day walk, and the ‘Meraner Höhenweg’ hiking trail are within easy reach from the town of St. Martin. The “Pfandler Alm” became famous, because the Tyrolean independence fighter Andreas Hofer was once held prisoner there. Today the Alpine pasture offers ramblers hearty snacks and accommodation.
A recommendable hike leads from the ‘Pfandler Alm’ to the ‘Meraner Hütte’ refuge. This stretch is part of the European long distance trail E5 starting at Oberstdorf in Germany and ending in Merano. The hike should not be underestimated. Right at the beginning the hiker has to climb from a height of 1,350 metres up to height of 2,800 metres, thus to manage an elevation gain of almost 1,500 metres. On his way up to the ‘Hirzerspitze’ peak the rambler is rewarded by stunning panoramic views.
The ‘Passeierer Höhenweg’ is also a marvellous high altitude trail for any rambler, being justifiably considered one of the most beautiful panoramic trails in South Tyrol. The small village of St. Leonhard is an ideal starting point for this hike. From there the hike leads first to the ‘Flecknerhütte’ refuge at a height of 2,100 metres. The hiker continues in direction of the ‘Glaitner Joch’ pass, enjoying fascinating views over the Stubai, Zillertal and Sarntal Alps.
The ‘Schlattacher Joch’ pass, the lake ‘Übelsee’ and the ‘Eggergrubalm’ Alpine pasture are further remarkable intermediate points of this hike. The rambler should be aware that this moderately difficult mountain hike takes at least five hours. Of course, the duration may be longer, if the hiker has a rest in one of the wayside mountain inns.
Alpine pastures and refuges around St. Martin
The ‘Pfandler Alm’ is for sure the most famous Alpine pasture near St. Martin. However, there are plenty of other mountain inns which the guest can visit in the closer surroundings. The ‘Jaufenblick’ mountain inn, for example, is a much frequented place, being open from March to October. The ‘Mahdalm’, the ‘Valseralm’ and the ‘Naserhof’ mountain inn are further popular destinations around St. Martin.
“Passeirer Schildhöfeweg” trail
The ‘Passeirer Schildhöfeweg’ trail is recommendable for every guest. There are as many as seven ‘Schildhöfe’ farms around St. Martin. The walk along this circular trail, taking about two hours, is rather easy and can be managed very well even by untrained hikers. The so-called ‘Schildhöfe’ are farms which seem to be fortresses, being all built in an elevated position. With their ivy-entwined towers, their sundials and their beautiful frescoes, the ‘Schildhöfe’ a really worth a visit.
The Passeier cycle path
The area around St. Martin is not only great for exploring on foot, cyclists will also get their money’s worth here. One of the best-known cycle paths in the region is the Passeier cycle path. Not only is it well signposted, it is also easy to cycle on thanks to its continuous gravel surface. This cycle path starts in the beautiful town of Meran and ends in St. Leonhardt. The almost 20 kilometers are easily manageable even for inexperienced cyclists. The cycle path not only passes St. Martin, but also the district of Saltaus.
The gorge trail in the “Passerschlucht” gorge
Along the majestic cliffs and dense forest sections, a path winds along the course of the Passer, where the river rushes wildly through deep pools and over artfully shaped stones and rocks. Over the years, the river has cut deep tracks into the rock and formed impressive rock formations. This natural beauty was made accessible in an ambitious undertaking and a path was created from St. Leonhard to Moos – the path winds its way through the gorge via footbridges, bridges and steps.
