Southern Half of the Meraner Höhenweg

Duration: 3 days
Trails: T2 trails
Distance: 15 - 20 km per day
Ascent per day: 500 - 1000 m ascent per day

> Trek the Southern Half of the Meraner Höhenweg
> We book your accommodation along the route
> Experience the culture of South Tyrol first-hand

The Meraner Höhenweg in South Tyrol is a 100-kilometer loop through the Texelgruppe Nature Park, featuring a mix of forests, vineyards, and alpine paths. Hikers can complete the entire trail or focus on specific sections, staying in both mountain huts and local hotels that offer a taste of South Tyrolean hospitality.

The southern half of the trail is easier, with gradual climbs and descents. It passes through meadows and forests, providing views of the valleys and vineyards. The terrain is more manageable, making it suitable for all levels. Along the way, you’ll find both huts and inns where you can rest and enjoy local meals, offering a comfortable end to each day’s hike.

Itinerary

Day
1

Stage 1: Ulfas to Matatz

Duration: 02:45 h
Distance: 8.16 km
Ascent: 200 m
Descent: 500 m

The first day of the southern half of the Meraner Höhenweg takes you from Ulfas to Matatz and is a straightforward start to the trek. The trail begins in Ulfas and follows paths through meadows, larch forests, and farm roads. You’ll pass by local farms and move through gradual ascents and descents, making it manageable for any hiker.

To get to Ulfas from Merano, take the 240 bus to St. Martin im Passeier and then the 241 local bus to Ulfas. From there, the trail climbs steadily through the Kammerwald forest and follows clear paths, mixing forest tracks with paved sections. Midway, you’ll reach the Christl farmstead, a good spot for a break. The trail then continues to the small settlement of Matatz (1,052 m).

Krusterhof

Info
Krusterhof
Day
2

Stage 2: Matatz to Hochganghaus

Duration: 10:00 h
Distance: 24.2 km
Ascent: 1670 m
Descent: 900 m

Today’s stage, the longest of the trek, begins in Matatz and goes through the Kalmbach Valley, passing Magdfeld, Vernuer, and Riffian. The trail is mostly gentle, following old farm paths and passing mountain farms.

You’ll then reach Longfall in the Spronser Valley, where the Kuenser Waal water canal runs. Parts of the trail may be slippery when wet, so take care. The route continues past Talbauer farm before ending at Hochganghaus (1,839 m), a good spot to rest and recover from today’s stage. As it’s a long day, make sure to start early.

Hochganghaus

Info
Hochganghaus
Day
3

Stage 3: Hochganghaus to Katharinaberg

Duration: 08:30 h
Distance: 22.5 km
Ascent: 660 m
Descent: 1260 m

This last stage of the Southern Meraner Höhenweg starts at Hochganghaus (1,839 m). Follow trail marker No. 24 through alpine terrain to the Nassereith Hut. You can make a short detour to the Partschins Waterfall before descending to Berggasthaus Giggelberg (1,565 m) for a snack and a well-deserved break.

From Giggelberg, the trail goes through the dry slopes of Vinschgau Sonnenberg, with sections of steady climbs and descents. You’ll navigate gorges using steps, bridges, and railings, including the Gorge of 1000 Steps. Along the way, there are mountain inns offering food and rest spots. The trail continues past Linthof, with views of Schloss Juval, before ending at Katharinaberg. You can then take the 261 bus to return to Naturns or Merano.

Included

  • Full travel guide

    We will send you on your way with a digital travel guide that includes a route description for the Meraner Höhenweg, interactive hiking maps, and the most important information applicable to your trek

  • Hotels, Hostels or Huts

    We arrange your accommodation on the Meraner Höhenweg in hotels, hostels or huts along the way. We have selected accommodations on our trek based on the length of each stage and recommendations from hikers who have gone before us on the Meraner Höhenweg.

  • Half board (where possible)

    Accommodation in the huts includes dinner and breakfast, unless otherwise indicated in the exclusive list. This allows you to travel lighter and not have to worry about an extra meal. Please note, however, that lunch is not included, but can be purchased at the huts.

  • Breakfast in hotels (where possible)

    Accommodation in the hotels includes breakfast whenever possible. We will arrange this for you as much as possible in advance. Please note that lunch and dinner are not included, but can be ordered at the accommodation or in the village.

Excluded

  • Traveling to and from

    You have to make your own way to the starting point. The total amount does not include personal transport.

  • Transfers

    Should you need any form of (public) transport on location, this is not part of the trekking package. This includes the use of taxi, bus, cable cars, gondolas etc.

  • Travel Insurance

    Your international travel insurance is your own responsibility. Discuss your itinerary with the insurance company before your trek.

  • Personal expenses

    Personal expenses on such as souvenirs, drinks, and other similar expenses are for your own account.

FAQ

  • Is the Meraner Höhenweg for me?

  • What Is The Best Season for The Meraner Höhenweg?

  • Getting to and from Merano

How to Book

  • Booking

  • Availability

  • Cancellation policy

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Contact our Trekking Expert
Charisa Kailey-Lê
Charisa Kailey-Lê

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