Hiking the Alps: Three of our team have embarked on journeys across the Alps, trekking from the scenic landscapes of Bavaria to the stunning regions of Italy. These exceptional tours provide not only breathtaking views and unforgettable moments, but also a profound connection to nature and Alpine culture. Here, you can delve into the personal stories and highlights of our colleagues who donned their hiking boots and set off on this remarkable adventure.
For the past two years, I have been taking care of the "Alpine Crossing Light" hiking tour, "From Garmisch to Merano, 8 days", and I finally had the opportunity to experience it myself. Naturally, I seized the chance to hike across the Alps on foot, crossing two national borders along the way! Armed with detailed travel documents and the Eurobike & Eurohike on Tour app, our adventure began. My partner and I set off from the renowned Olympic resort of Garmisch-Partenkirchen, traversing the mountainous Tyrol region to reach the sunny landscapes of South Tyrol. We fully immersed ourselves in the hikes through picturesque landscapes and mountain pastures—an ideal escape from the stress of everyday life!
After a hearty breakfast at our hotel, we set off on our first hiking stage, which takes us directly through the impressive Partnach Gorge—a must-see destination. The Leutasch Ghost Gorge, awaiting us the following day, also exceeds our expectations. This route takes us over 40-meter-high metal grates and suspension bridges, offering incredible views.
Whether along the Leutascher Ache, through secluded high moorland areas, or up on the Mutzkopf, the trails always offer variety and, above all, fantastic views. Not to be missed on this route are the Green and Black Lakes, perfect spots for a short break and a bite to eat. After tackling some challenging sections and steeper climbs, a magnificent view of Lake Reschen awaits us on the fourth day of hiking, heightening our anticipation of spending a night in this beautiful place. Once we arrive in sunny South Tyrol, our paths lead us through vineyards and apple orchards. Via the Tappeiner Promenade, we finally reach our destination: Merano.
On the very first day, we are treated to delicious Käsespätzle at the Elmauer Alm. This small but charming mountain hut is highly recommended, especially for the hospitality of the family-run establishment. Along the way, we eagerly indulge in regional delicacies like Kaiserschmarrn and spinach dumplings. Once in beautiful Italy, Italian pasta specialties top the list, including chanterelle tortellini, tagliatelle with an excellent porcini mushroom sauce, and classic spaghetti Bolognese.
Upon arriving in the charming city, we are left in awe; the beauty of Merano truly lives up to its reputation. Our path to the hotel follows the Passer River, which divides this enchanting "Sissi City" into two beautiful parts. Naturally, we treat ourselves to a well-deserved authentic Italian gelato and spend the rest of the evening at the Merano Thermal Baths.
On the trail from Reschen to Naturns, there's a charming bench. The view of the surrounding mountains, vineyards, and small villages in the valley is enchanting. This spot is perfect for a short break or simply to enjoy the natural beauty. It's also a great place to reflect on the stages you've already completed, enhancing the anticipation for the final destination. Highly recommended!
I have been visiting a friend in South Tyrol regularly for a few years now, and she has already shown me many beautiful places in her home region. So, when I decided on my first "Team Member on Tour" destination, Italy immediately came to mind. Together with my friend, I am embarking on my first multi-day hiking tour, a shortened version from Kaltern to Lake Garda - packed with anticipation.
Our first stage starts with a sunny stroll through the vineyards of Kaltern. The Mendel cable car transports us to higher elevations, where glimpses of the valley beneath are teased through the lingering fog. Soon after, the sun breaks through, and we relish our hike through the lush Val di Non, passing by the picturesque Ruffrè lakes.
True to the motto "The journey is the reward," the idyllic high trail towards Coredo not only allows immersion in the beauty of the forest and the gentle murmur of small streams but also reveals unexpected attractions along the way. Soon, we arrive at the impressive San Romedio monastery, comprised of several churches and chapels constructed atop one another over time. The ascent up the steep steps to the viewing platform is a must—notably for the breathtaking panoramic view from this lofty height!
The most beautiful hiking moments of our journey undoubtedly occur during the descents of the last two stages. After hiking across the Paganella plateau and through an enchanting forest filled with ferns, we reach the picturesque village of Molveno via a forest road. Here, we are treated to a breathtaking view of the turquoise-blue Lake Molveno and the majestic Brenta Dolomites. I wish we could stay longer than just one night.
The very next day, we are rewarded with a view of our final destination. At the Rifugio San Pietro, we savor apple strudel and tea while enjoying the view of Lake Garda, which gradually comes closer during the long descent. To cap off our journey, we cool our feet in the lake and toast to our successful first hiking tour with a refreshing drink.
On our first stage, we come across my personal favorite place, the "Bar Centrale." At first glance, this unassuming bar is the only place to grab a bite in the small mountain village of Don, making you feel like you've truly arrived in Italy. We put our Italian language skills to the test over delicious coffee and pastries.
For several years, I have been responsible for the exceptionally beautiful tour "From Lake Garda to Venice, 8 days," and it’s high time I finally experience my favorite tour firsthand. My dear friends are joining me, and our excitement is immense!
A special highlight for me is the first stage, where you hike through vineyards into the vast rockfall area known as the "Marroche Rock Desert." Upon arriving in Pietramurata, we are welcomed by Daniela, the owner of the Pietra Rara apartments. She shares many fascinating stories with us over a good bottle of Gewürztraminer.
If you're looking to cool off after a hot day of hiking, this tour is perfect for you. Almost every day offers the chance to take a dip in a lake, such as the beautiful Lake Cavedine or Lake Terlago. The view of the Adige Valley and Trento, the capital of the Trentino region, is also breathtaking.
Our third hiking stage from Trento to Levico Terme proves that not even rainy weather can dampen our wanderlust. Thankfully, we packed enough bad weather gear, and despite the heavy rain, we are eagerly anticipating this hike along the ancient Roman traces through Val Sugana. Along the way, we make a detour to visit the well-preserved Pergine Castle. As we ascend, the fog thickens, but with the help of our travel documents, we press on and eventually reach our destination, Hotel Liberty, in Levico Terme.
This wonderful hiking stage ascends to the alpine pastures of the Vizentino mountains, reaching the highest point of the entire hiking week, Malga Costa. Enchanting meadow paths adorned with endless flowers and gorges with glistening blue streams accompany us throughout the journey.
Before reaching the Venetian plain near Bassano del Grappa, we are rewarded with a fantastic high-altitude trail, the "Alta Via del Tabacco". Enchanted forests accompany us throughout the day until we stride across the famous "Ponte Vecchio" bridge. At the end of the hike, we savor delicious grappa at the Grappa Museum.
We made it! With smiles on our faces, we embark on the final sunny hiking day towards Venice. We relax and enjoy the hike along the River Sile. There is so much to discover on this stage: rare plants, fruits, turtle families, waterfowl, and various other bird species. Arriving in Venice, we immediately understand why this city is a beloved tourist destination and absolutely worth visiting: the meticulous architectural details evoke the grandeur of days past in every corner. We conclude our walking tour with a glass of wine in St. Mark's Square and a midnight boat tour to cap off our journey!
There are many favorite places on this tour, but one that holds a special place for me is the open-air art exhibition "Arte Sella". Here, nature transforms into art! Artists from around the globe have crafted their works using natural materials. It's our first time experiencing such an exhibition, and we are truly amazed by these artworks. We reflect on these beautiful impressions over a cup of cappuccino in the adjacent garden.
