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Between Peaks and Pleasures – Culinary Hiking in South Tyrol
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Between Peaks and Pleasures – Culinary Hiking in South Tyrol

Alpine bliss & tasty treasures: Savor South Tyrolean specialties with every step
Lifestyle & Health
Lake Garda vineyards

When you hike in South Tyrol, you don’t just experience stunning mountain landscapes, crystal-clear lakes, and sunny alpine meadows—you also enjoy culinary delights at every turn. Along the trails, cozy huts and traditional inns & guesthouses invite you to savor authentic South Tyrolean specialties: homemade Knödel (dumplings), flavorful Speck (smoked cured ham), fresh alpine cheese, and warm Apfelstrudel make every rest stop a memorable experience. In this article, we’ll show you delicious ways to perfectly combine hiking and indulgence.

Lake Garda vineyards

The South Tyrolean Apple

Markets stalls and farm direct sales

Picking along the trail

Places to eat and rest

Fresh, crisp, and local: the South Tyrolean apple — your perfect hiking companion.

What’s more typical of South Tyrol than the apple?

Whether as a quick energy boost from your backpack or freshly sliced during an alpine lunch, the South Tyrolean apple is a faithful companion on every hike. Thanks to over 300 days of sunshine a year and the crisp mountain air, South Tyrol grows especially flavorful apple varieties, including Golden Delicious, Fuji, and the crunchy Braeburn. Many farms and huts along the trails offer fresh apples straight from the orchard—local, sustainable, and bursting with taste. A true piece of South Tyrol you can savor.

Apple trees along the Tschars irrigation canal trail
Apple juice stand in Lagundo, South Tyrol
Sale of apple juice from Algunder Waal Mitterplars
Winklerhof Partschins Signpost to the waterfall
Child at the fruit stand in Lagundo Waal South Tyrol

Savor the journey: Markets stalls and farm direct sales

What makes South Tyrol’s hiking trails so special isn’t just the breathtaking nature—it’s also the many small, authentic moments of enjoyment along the way. On many routes, you’ll come across charming market stands, quaint farm shops, or so-called “self-service stands” right by the trail. There, local farmers offer their homegrown products—simple, trustworthy, and often based on an honor system.

Whether it’s fresh South Tyrolean apples, homemade apple juice, speck, cheese, herb salt, or sweet jams—you can truly taste what makes this region special: authentic, original, and crafted with heart. What’s especially wonderful is that many of these stands are right along popular hiking trails, inviting you to take a delicious break.

A real insider tip for those who want to combine hiking with regional flavors—and maybe even bring home a tasty souvenir or two.

Winklerhof sales stand in Partschins

Enjoy with all your senses – nature’s little treasures

In South Tyrol, hiking is about more than just savoring regional specialties, you can also discover small culinary treasures straight from nature if you know when and where to look. Especially in late summer and fall, many trails transform into true delight routes for foragers.

Along sunny slopes and historic farms, juicy figs ripen in sheltered spots, surprising with their sweetness. In the lower elevations and warmer areas around Merano, you can even pick them right from the tree in late summer but always with respect for nature and only where permitted.

Starting in mid-September, chestnut season begins—especially in the Eisack Valley, Ultental, and around Ritten. Many trails meander through chestnut groves where the spiky fruits lie beneath the trees. Those with keen eyes can gather a few to roast at home—a delighful autumn gift from the mountains.

Along the way, you can also find berries, herbs, walnuts, elderberries, and even artichokes—a true taste of nature that makes hiking in South Tyrol even more special.

Important: Please observe local guidelines when foraging and respect private property and nature reserves—this ensures these treasures remain available for everyone to enjoy.

Exciting: A year of alpine herbs
Artichokes from Lagundo Waal
Sweet chestnut Algunder Waal
Vines Kastelbell Koefelgut Winery South Tyrol
Walnut tree near Partschins, South Tyrol
South Tyrolean speciality

Food and refreshment stops along the way

Along our hiking trails, many huts, alpine pastures, snack stations, and guesthouses invite you to take a break. There, you can enjoy delicious regional specialties. We’ve put together a selection of these great places to stop and refresh for you. Just keep scrolling down. Also interesting:

Culinary journeys in South Tyrol
  • Rescher Alm in Reschen
    An idyllic spot with breathtaking views high above Lake Reschen. The owner, a passionate hunter himself, prides himself on the quality of the meat. Typical specialties are served, such as Hüttennudeln, Speckknödelsuppe, Knödeltris, Kaiserschmarrn, and many other delicious treats.

 

  • Winklerhof in Partschins
    An idyllic spot with breathtaking views high above Lake Reschen. The owner, a passionate hunter himself, prides himself on the quality of the meat. Typical specialties are served, such as Hüttennudeln, Speckknödelsuppe, Knödeltris, Kaiserschmarrn, and many other delicious treats.

 

  • Restaurant Café Unterweger on the Tappeinerweg near Merano
    Located directly along the popular Tappeinerweg, Restaurant Café Unterweger invites you to relax and enjoy homemade cakes and regional dishes with a stunning view. An ideal stop for hikers and food lovers alike.
South Tyrolean speciality
Hiking break at the Leutascher Ache
From Garmisch to Merano
8 Days
78 ratings
Hikers in the Wetterstein mountains
From Garmisch to Merano with Charm
8 Days
25 ratings
Hiking group in front of the Zugspitze massif
From Füssen to Merano
8 Days
8 ratings
  • Restaurant Waalrast near Lana
    Nestled along the scenic Brandis Waalweg trail, Restaurant Waalrast offers a welcoming stop with a sunny terrace and inviting atmosphere. The menu blends traditional South Tyrolean cuisine with Mediterranean lightness, crafted from honest, locally sourced ingredients. Homemade desserts add a sweet finish. Surrounded by the natural beauty of the Lana region, it’s the perfect place to pause and savor the moment.

 

  • Burgschenke Hocheppan & Burgschenke Boymont
    Nestled along the scenic Brandis Waalweg trail, Restaurant Waalrast offers a welcoming stop with a sunny terrace and inviting atmosphere. The menu blends traditional South Tyrolean cuisine with Mediterranean lightness, crafted from honest, locally sourced ingredients. Homemade desserts add a sweet finish. Surrounded by the natural beauty of the Lana region, it’s the perfect place to pause and savor the moment.
View of Lake Garda
From Merano to Lake Garda
8 Days
109 ratings
Hikers in the vineyards on Lake Kaltern
From Lake Resia to Lake Caldaro with Charm
9 Days
18 ratings
Church tower in Graun on Lake Reschen
South Tyrolean Wine and Alpine Pasture Trail
  • Möltner Kaser – Alpine farming with tradition
    Nestled in the Sarntal Alps on the sunny Salten Plateau at 1,806 meters (5,925 feet), this alpine farm and mountain hut is home to cattle, sheep, and Haflinger horses. The surrounding meadows invite exploration and hiking throughout the year—from vibrant crocus blooms in spring to snowshoe adventures in winter. Here on the Tschögglberg, the passion for nature, alpine life, and traditional farming is warmly shared with every visitor.
Wine sale at a traditional winery
South Tyrolean Wine & Alpine Pasture Trail
7 Days
28 ratings
Tours for wine lovers in Italy
Wine sales at the Partschins farm shop in South Tyrol
wine sales
Apple trees along the Tschars irrigation canal trail
Lake view Haidersee Reschen
Vernatsch cultivation in Kastelbell Vinschgau
Lupins on the mountain near Schöneben
Leitenschenke Merano Lake Garda panoramic restaurant

Panoramic Hiking in the Vinschgau

  • Brugger Alm in the Zerzer Valley – Bliss at 1,914 meters (6,276 feet)
    Nestled in the picturesque Zerzer Valley, Brugger Alm offers a welcoming spot to relax and recharge. Whether you’re stopping by for lunch, dinner, or just a refreshing glass of fresh milk or cold beer, you’ll enjoy homemade specialties crafted from their own farm’s produce throughout the summer months. A standout favorite is the alpine cheese, made from the milk of around 70 cows. The cozy guesthouse welcomes visitors from mid-May to early October.
Mountain panorama on the Haideralm with a wooden signpost stuck in a cairn
Panorama Hiking in the Val Venosta Valley
8 Days
6 ratings
Goldrain High Trail, Val Venosta Valley
  • Winklerhof in Partschins
    The Winklerhof is a family-friendly farm with a Hofschank—a traditional farm tavern—offering its own products such as honey, homemade pasta and dumplings, fruits, vegetables, jams, and much more. With a stunning view, farm animals, and homemade specialties, it’s a popular destination for visitors of all ages.

 

  • Restaurant Café Unterweger on the Tappeinerweg near Merano
    Located directly on the popular Tappeinerweg trail, Restaurant Café Unterweger invites you to relax and enjoy stunning views, homemade cakes, and regional dishes. It’s an ideal stop for hikers and food lovers alike.
Hikers in the vineyards on Lake Kaltern
From Lake Resia to Lake Caldaro with Charm
9 Days
18 ratings
Hiker enjoys the view of the mountain panorama
From Lake Resia to Merano
7 Days
32 ratings
Kaiserschmarrn Haideralm Lake Reschen to Merano

Culinary Experiences on the E5

  • Pfandleralm – Charm in the Heart of the Passeier Valley
    Situated in the picturesque village of St. Martin, set within the stunning mountain landscape of the Passeier Valley, Pfandleralm invites you to indulge. In the cozy parlor or on the sunny terrace, lovingly prepared specialties from South Tyrolean cuisine are served—blended with Mediterranean flair and seasonal ingredients from the region. Whether traditional dumpling dishes, hearty meat specialties, or homemade desserts, quality and flavor take center stage here. The perfect South Tyrolean wine complements every dish. A culinary stop that delights hikers, food lovers, and locals alike.
View of the huts in Steeg in the Inn Valley
Crossing of the Alps E5: Oberstdorf – Merano with Charm
8 Days
3 ratings
Alpine meadow in the Passeier Valley with mountain panorama
E5: Mini-Transalp for families
8 Days
All about hiking the long-distance trail E5
Pfandleralm Passeiertal on the E5
Mahdalm Passier Valley Merano
Hirzerhuette Passeiertal on the E5
Honeycombs in Mals
Hiking trail Passeiertal Meran
From Merano to Lake Garda

Where to eat between Merano and Lake Garda

Rifugio Croz Altissimo – Alpine Tastes and Dolomite Vistas

At the foot of the dramatic Croz dell’Altissimo rock face, perched at 1,430 meters (4,692 feet) above Molveno, this cozy mountain hut is tucked within the heart of the Brenta Dolomites. In a warm, family-style atmosphere, the Rifugio serves up classic Trentino specialties such as polenta with mushrooms, wild boar, homemade pasta, and apple strudel. Rifugio Croz dell’Altissimo blends alpine flavor with heartfelt hospitality and stunning views—and it’s a true mountaineer’s hut.

Merano – Lake Garda
Hiker in the Brenta Dolomites

Rifugio San Pietro – The Balcony Overlooking Lake Garda

Perched high above Riva del Garda, Rifugio San Pietro sits like a panoramic balcony overlooking Lake Garda. After a gentle climb from Tenno or Canale di Tenno, travelers are rewarded not only with breathtaking views but also with authentic Trentino cuisine: homemade gnocchi, wild game stew, polenta, and sweet classics like Apfelstrudel and tiramisù. On the sunny terrace, regional specialties are served with views stretching all the way to the lake’s southern shore – a perfect stop for those who appreciate the finer things.

Merano – Lake Garda with Charm
San Pietro in Tenno Mountain Hut

Travel stories: Hiking in South Tyrol

Punta Larici viewpoint with a view of Lake Garda
Around Lake Garda
Hiking around Italy’s largest lake is a dream shared by many active travelers and Lake Garda enthusiasts. After numerous requests from our loyal guests, we’re thrilled to make it a reality: starting in 2025, Eurohike will offer a brand-new hiking tour that circles the entire Lago di Garda. If you’ve been to Lake Garda, you know there’s a road that loops around the lake, connecting its picturesque shoreline towns. But where are the best hiking routes—the ones with panoramic views, tranquil landscapes, and unforgettable moments in nature? That’s where Christina, our experienced and passionate product manager, comes in. With years of expertise and a deep love for hiking, she set out to find the most stunning trails around the lake. Her dedication is our promise: with Eurohike, you’re always hiking the most beautiful routes. Follow Christina on her journey of discovery around Lake Garda—and don’t forget to jot down a few insider tips for your next hiking adventure!
Hiker by the Rio Masso river via Lungolado
Team Members on Tour
Travel story: Walking from Merano to Lake Garda
Swapping the office for an outdoor adventure! Elisabeth from our sales team is setting off on her very first “Employees on Tour” hiking trip – from Merano to Lake Garda, right through the stunning and diverse region of South Tyrol. With rucksack packed and hiking boots laced up, the journey begins: The unique blend of wine, mountains, and lakes – all with that unmistakable Italian charm – is what inspired me to join “Employees on Tour”. So, with eager anticipation and well-trained calves, we're off on our first hiking adventure!
Team Members on Tour
Wanderlust from Merano to Lake Garda
If you love the adventure of outdoor travelling and enjoy moving from place to place, then you will be familiar with the famous quote: ‘The journey is the reward.’ We have organised many of our trips according to this motto - until now. But our experience with the Eurohike tour from Merano to Riva del Garda has shown us a new side to travelling: the ease and enjoyment of a perfectly organised hiking trip. With luggage transport, detailed travel documents and pre-booked accommodation, everything was taken care of. All we had to do was pack our rucksacks, get on the train to Merano - and the rest went by itself. Every stage was impressive and always provided special moments. Join us on this individual hiking trip and discover how the Eurohike tour has redefined our understanding of travelling. I will take you on a journey through the impressive landscapes of south tyrol - and show you why this tour was something very special for me.
Hiking tour from Verona to Lake Garda
Team Members on Tour
Travel story from Verona to Lake Garda
Two of our team members set out to explore the Mediterranean wine region, hiking from the romantic city of Verona to Lake Garda. Along the way, they took in breathtaking landscapes, wandered through charming villages, and indulged in local culinary delights. Discover their firsthand experiences and favorite moments from this unforgettable gourmet adventure.
Hiker with a mountain view
Team Members on Tour
Travel Report on Panorama Hiking in Val Venosta
In beautiful weather, we finally embark on our well-deserved vacation. My girlfriend and I hit the road towards South for our hiking tour in South Tyrol. After a few hours of driving and a refreshing dip in Lake Chiemsee, we arrive at the idyllic village of Malles Venosta. A quick hotel check-in later, we take a leisurely stroll through the charming alleyways, ending our day with home-style cooking and a cold beer at Forsterbräu. Tomorrow we start our hiking tour ‘Panorama hiking in the Val Venosta Valley’.
Hiker with dog with a panoramic view of the South Tyrolean landscape
Guests on Tour
A 6-Stage hike from Merano to Lake Garda
Through his outdoor blog UrbanHiker.de, Nick offers tips for both beginners and seasoned hikers on routes, destinations, and outdoor adventures with dogs. His goal is to inspire people to explore the world on foot, from urban environments to rural landscapes, and from low mountain ranges to the Alps. Nick, accompanied by his beloved dog Asta, enjoys exploring long-distance hiking trails and mountainous terrain. Here, he shares his experience of the Eurohike long-distance hiking tour from Merano to Lake Garda with his canine companion. You can read the first part of his Alpine crossing in the travel report on hiking with a dog from Garmisch to Meran.
Two hikers on a footbridge in front of the church tower of Altgraun in Lake Reschen
Eurohike backstage
Team Members on Tour
The employees' favourite places in South Tyrol
Once a year, our employees have the opportunity to go on an ‘Employee on Tour’ trip. This allows them to enjoy an extra week's holiday and experience one of our hiking destinations up close and actively - to get to know, discover and enjoy. This is great fun and we ourselves experience an Eurohike hiking holiday from the perspective of our valued guests.  On the occasion of our 20th Eurohike anniversary this year, we are delighted to present to you the FAVOURITE PLACES of our employees in detail. 
Hiker hikes uphill amidst greenery
Team Members on Tour
On foot through the beautiful Vinschgau Valley
At last, the moment has arrived for me to embark on my inaugural team-member-on-tour assignment - I can't wait for my hiking holiday from Lake Resia to Merano. Leading our captivating walking tours in South Tyrol, my curiosity compels me to venture into one of these mesmerizing destinations. Our journey begins on foot, tracing the entirety of the Vinschgau Valley—from the serene shores of Lake Reschen to the tranquil spa haven of Merano. With walking boots laced and sunglasses at the ready, my companion and I eagerly set out from Reschen, primed for adventure.
Crystal clear Leutschacher Ache, lined with trees
Crossing the Alps à la Eurohike - 6 highlights between Garmisch and Meran
With his outdoor blog UrbanHiker.de, Nick provides tips for beginners and pros on hiking routes, destinations and walking with dogs. His aim is to encourage people to explore the world on foot - whether in the city, in the countryside and from low mountain ranges to the Alps. He loves travelling with his dog Asta, especially on long-distance hiking trails and in the mountains.
Hiking children on the hiking trail
Team Members on Tour
Hiking for families
Travel Story: Family walking holiday in South Tyrol
Over the summer break, me and my family went on a cool walking holiday! Guess what? Our cousins Lina and Tobias came too, along with their parents and grandparents. It was awesome having them with us! We picked the walking holiday South Tyrol for families for our vacation because we really wanted to check out this church that's underwater in Lake Reschen. And guess what else? On the Eurohike website, we found out there are tons of old castles and palaces to explore there! Tobias was super excited about that. So, we packed our bags and off we went on our adventure!

New Tours for 2026 – available soon

HIDDEN ELEMENT:
Hier ca. Ende August die 3 neuen REisen 2026 verlinken: 2 Variante des Meraner Höhenwegs & neue Reise Garmisch - Sterzing Transalp.

View of the Danube from the vineyards
World Heritage Trail Wachau with Charm
8 Days
14 ratings
Hikers on the mountain path up the Spielberghorn
Enchanting Kitzbühel with Charm
7 Days
5 ratings
Two hikers in front of a breathtaking mountain panorama
Around Zugspitze with Charm
7 Days
22 ratings

Mountain hut village: Garmisch to Sterzing – Transalp

  • Scenic Gourmet Hike to Vallemingalm (Sterzing, Gossensass)

    At around 2,000 meters (6,560 feet), the charming alpine hut village of Vallemingalm welcomes you with three staffed alpine huts: Jörgneralm, Vallemingalm itself, and Baron Kaser. Each has its own unique character, but all offer homemade South Tyrolean specialties such as Knödel, Schlutzer, and fresh alpine cheese. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a tasty break after your hike!

    The cozy atmosphere, breathtaking views of the Zillertal Alps, and the harmonious charm of the huts make this place a true hidden gem for food lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.

    🧀 Tip: Be sure to try the fresh alpine milk coffee made from just-milked milk!

Huettendorf Vallemingalm Sterzing Gossensass

Culinary delights on the Merano High Mountain Trail

  • Hochganghaus – Authentic Mountaineers’ Station with Regional Cuisine
    Located on the Merano High Mountain Trail, Hochganghaus offers a genuine mountaineering atmosphere paired with hearty South Tyrolean cuisine. Robust specialties and homemade dishes fuel hikers for the next leg of their journey—complete with true alpine spirit.
     

  • Hochganghaus – Authentic Mountaineers’ Station with Regional Cuisine
    Located on the Merano High Mountain Trail, Hochganghaus offers a genuine mountaineering atmosphere paired with hearty South Tyrolean cuisine. Robust specialties and homemade dishes fuel hikers for the next leg of their journey—complete with true alpine spirit.
     

  • Lazinser Alm – Delight at the Valley End of Pfelders
    Situated idyllically at 1,858 meters (6,096 feet) at the foot of the Hohe Wilde within the Texelgruppe Nature Park, this staffed alpine hut lies directly on the ascent to the Eisjoch between the Pfelderer and Pfossental valleys. It offers hikers not only stunning mountain scenery but also authentic South Tyrolean alpine cuisine.

uspension bridge on the Merano High Mountain Trail

Are you a coffee lover?

South Tyrolean Coffee Roastery Caroma in Völs am Schlern

At the Caroma Coffee Roastery near Völs am Schlern, coffee craftsmanship is taken to heart. With passion, skilled care, and gentle drum roasting, they create distinctive coffees from carefully selected beans. Visitors can not only sample top-quality coffee but also join guided tours and barista courses—a must for coffee lovers in South Tyrol. The roastery features a coffee shop and a live roasting demonstration.

Note: Völs am Schlern is not located directly on any of our hiking routes. From Bolzano, it’s about a 30-minute drive to the roastery—but it’s definitely worth a visit!

Why wait? Wanderlust is calling for 2026!
Discover now & book
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Whether it's Alpine panoramas or coastal trails – your dream hike awaits. Book now for 2026, secure your desired date and benefit from the early bird bonus until 28 February.

Discover now & book
Walking holidays 2026
Three hikers in the hazelnut groves of Liguria
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