South Tyrol Through the Seasons.
The landscape surrounding Amolaris changes with every season – and with it, the way nature is experienced. Gentle spring hikes, long summer days in the mountains, golden autumn landscapes and peaceful winter moments create new impressions throughout the year. Vinschgau is one of the sunniest regions in the Alps, offering ideal conditions for outdoor experiences in every season – from leisurely walks to memorable mountain adventures.
Spring
Walks: 4–8 km
In spring, the Vinschgau landscape turns into a sea of white and soft pink blossom. Gentle walking routes lead through this beautiful seasonal setting, opening up wide views of the surrounding mountains along the way.
Tip: Apple blossom is especially atmospheric in the early morning, when the landscape is still quiet and the first rays of sunlight begin to illuminate the trees.
Hike: 2–6 km
The Vinschgau Sonnenberg is one of the driest regions in the Alps and is perfect for the first hikes of the year. Pleasant temperatures and sunny conditions often arrive here early in spring.
Tip: Many trails are especially peaceful at this time of year – ideal for relaxed panoramic hikes and quiet moments in nature.
Hike: 3–10 km
The historic Waalwege are among the most beautiful hiking trails in the region. Following traditional irrigation channels, the paths lead through varied landscapes with sweeping views across the valley.
Tip: Pausing at one of the panoramic viewpoints is one of the most memorable moments of these hikes.
Walk: 2–3 km
South Tyrol’s smallest town enchants with medieval lanes, historic buildings and a truly distinctive atmosphere.
Tip: A coffee in one of the charming little squares is the perfect way to round off a springtime visit.
Summer
Hikes: 6–12 km
Watles is considered one of the most scenic mountains in Upper Vinschgau. Gentle alpine meadows, clear mountain air and impressive panoramic views define this beautiful area.
Tip: Stopping at one of the traditional mountain huts is simply part of a perfect summer day in the mountains.
Circular walk: approx. 5 km
Lake Haidersee lies peacefully nestled between meadows and mountains. The clear alpine lake reflects the surrounding peaks, creating a wonderfully calm and unhurried atmosphere.
Tip: Early in the morning, the lake is especially peaceful – a beautiful time to enjoy the stillness and mountain views.
Hikes: 6–18 km
Stelvio National Park is one of the most impressive natural landscapes in the Alps. High-alpine scenery, clear mountain air and sweeping views turn every hike into a truly special experience.
Tip: With a little luck, you may even spot marmots or golden eagles along the way.
Starting point: Schnalstal Glacier / Kurzras
Distance from Amolaris: approx. 65 km – around 1 hour 20 minutes by car
Tour length: approx. 12 km in total
Elevation gain: approx. 600 m
Duration: approx. 5–6 hours
Difficulty: challenging – alpine experience and sure-footedness required
Best time of year: summer (June–September)
The route leads through high-alpine terrain, past glaciers and rugged rock formations. Along the way, sweeping views open up across the peaks of the Ötztal Alps and the glacier landscape surrounding the Similaun. At the discovery site, a memorial marks the place where Ötzi was found – a moving moment amid the stillness of the high mountains.
Tip: Combine the hike with a visit to the ArcheoParc Schnalstal or the South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology in Bolzano, where the Iceman is preserved today. It turns the hike into a fascinating journey through nature, history and archaeology.
Bike tour: 80–86 km
The Adige Cycle Path is one of South Tyrol’s most scenic cycling routes. It leads through wide-open landscapes and connects many of the Vinschgau’s historic towns and villages.
Tip: The route towards Merano is especially popular, with gentle descents and beautiful views along the way.
Autumn
Hikes: 6–15 km
When the forests begin to change colour in autumn, the landscape takes on a particularly striking beauty. The clear air opens up sweeping views across the mountains.
Tip: The warm tones of the woods are especially beautiful in the evening light, when the colours appear even more vivid.
Autumn is the season for traditional Törggelen. In cosy farm inns and rustic taverns, regional specialities are served alongside new wine – a wonderfully authentic taste of South Tyrol.
Tip: Törggelen feels especially genuine in the small, family-run establishments of the surrounding villages.
Walk: 5–15 km
Lake Reschen is one of the most striking places in the region. Its famous church tower rising from the water has become an iconic landmark of the Vinschgau.
Tip: In autumn, the warm light of the setting sun bathes the landscape in especially beautiful colours.
Hikes: 2.5–3.5 km
Autumn is Törggelen season: around Goldrain, traditional farm taverns invite you to enjoy roasted chestnuts, new wine and South Tyrolean specialities in a warm, authentic atmosphere.
Tip: Combine your autumn experience with a hike to the Laatscher Alm.
Winter
Walks: 4–8 km
In winter, Lake Reschen is especially striking. The famous church tower rises from the snow-covered landscape, creating one of the Vinschgau’s most iconic winter scenes.
Tip: On calm, windless days, the snow-covered mountains are beautifully reflected in the water.
Winter hiking trails: 5–8 km
Well-prepared winter hiking trails lead through peaceful, snow-covered mountain landscapes.
Tip: A stop at a traditional mountain hut, with views across the winter scenery, makes this experience especially memorable.
Tours: 4–10 km
Snowshoe hikes offer a wonderfully immersive way to experience the winter mountain landscape.
Tip: Guided tours combine safety with unforgettable moments in the snow-covered natural surroundings.
Walk: 2 km
The medieval town of Glurns is especially enchanting in winter. Snow resting on the old town walls and quiet lanes create a wonderfully atmospheric setting.
Tip: A visit during the Advent season is particularly magical.
Culture
Goldrain Castle is located right in the village of Goldrain and is one of the Vinschgau’s distinctive cultural landmarks. Today, the Renaissance castle serves as an educational and event venue, bringing historic architecture together with a vibrant cultural programme.
With its inner courtyard, historic walls and peaceful setting, Goldrain Castle is a lovely destination for a short walk from Amolaris.
Tip: Ideal for a relaxed evening stroll or as a gentle introduction to the history of Goldrain and Latsch. Goldrain Castle is around 30 km from Merano.
Churburg Castle is one of the best-preserved castles in South Tyrol. Perched high above the valley, it has shaped the landscape of the region for centuries.
Its impressive collection of historic armour is particularly remarkable.
Tip: A guided tour of the castle offers fascinating insights into the history of the Vinschgau.
The small town of Glurns is one of the most beautiful historic places in the Vinschgau. A completely preserved medieval town wall surrounds its historic lanes and charming squares.
Strolling through the town feels almost like stepping back in time.
Tip: A walk along the old town walls opens up beautiful views across the surrounding landscape.
St. Stephen’s Castle Chapel near Morter lies below the Obermontani Castle ruins and is one of the Vinschgau’s hidden artistic treasures. From the outside, the chapel appears simple and understated, while inside, remarkable late-medieval frescoes reveal its true beauty.
Often referred to as the “Sistine Chapel of the Vinschgau”, it is a rewarding destination for anyone wishing to combine culture, history and a gentle walk.
Tip: The chapel can be beautifully combined with a visit to the Obermontani and Untermontani castle ruins.
The ruins of Obermontani and Untermontani lie near Morter at the entrance to the Martell Valley and offer a fascinating glimpse into the medieval history of the Vinschgau. Obermontani is particularly renowned: the 13th-century castle is known as the place where an original manuscript of the Nibelungenlied dating from 1323 was discovered.
Today, the two ruins make a wonderfully atmospheric destination for walkers, hikers and culture lovers. Between ancient walls, historic Waalwege and sweeping views across the valley, the Vinschgau’s castle landscape reveals its special character.
Tip: One of the most beautiful ways to experience the area is on a circular walk from Goldrain or Morter via the Waalwege, St. Stephen’s Chapel and the Montani ruins – combining panoramic views, culture and nature in a single outing. A circular route from Goldrain is around 13 km.
Marienberg Abbey is one of the highest Benedictine monasteries in Europe and impresses with its remarkable setting high above the Vinschgau.
Its peaceful atmosphere and centuries of history make it a truly special destination for a cultural excursion.
Tip: From the abbey, sweeping views open up across the entire Upper Vinschgau.
Für eventuelle Fragen stehen wir Ihnen gerne zur Verfügung!

