Crossing the Alps: Garmisch – Bolzano

Stroll through the charming streets and soak up the cozy atmosphere of this popular Bavarian resort at the foot of the Zugspitze.

Hotel example: Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten Garmisch

Pass the famous ski jump and walk through the dramatic Partnach Gorge, where rushing waters have carved deep into the rock. From Wamberg, hike to the Elmauer Alm and continue through blooming meadows and valleys to Lauter- and Ferchensee. Overnight stays are in Mittenwald, renowned for its violin-making tradition and Lüftlmalerei murals.

Hotel example: Hotel Gästehaus Bichlerhof

A transfer takes you to the Karwendel National Park at Möslalm, where the ascent to the Nordkette ridge begins. From the Pfeishütte, a spectacular high trail winds along rocky peaks to the cable car station, offering breathtaking views of the Inn Valley. After a stop at the mountain restaurant, a short cable car ride brings you down to Innsbruck. No visit would be complete without exploring the Old Town and its iconic Golden Roof.

Hotel example: Hotel Central Innsbruck

Take a bus and cable car up to the Serlesbahn mountain station in the Stubai Valley. Against the dramatic backdrop of the Stubaier Alps and their rugged peaks, you hike to the pilgrimage church of Maria Waldrast and linger at the monastery before beginning the alpine ascent to the Blaser Hut on the so-called Flower Mountain. From there, trails through meadows and forests lead down into the rustic and picturesque Gschnitztal Valley.

Hotel example: Hotel Hohe Burg

Follow the famous pilgrimage trail of Saint Romedius up to the Truna Hut and onward to the Truna Pass. Nestled within the impressive mountain landscape, the idyllic Lichtsee invites a pause with views of numerous snow-capped three-thousand-meter peaks. The trail then descends through the Nösslachjoch Nature Reserve into the tranquil Obernberg Valley, where the imposing Tribulaun towers above the valley’s end.

Hotel example: Almi´s Berghotel

From the turquoise Obernberg Lake, follow the lakeside path past the renowned Maria am See Chapel, a special place of spiritual energy. Continue over blooming alpine meadows and pastures as you ascend to the 2,000-meter-high (6,560 ft) Sandjöchl, crossing the main Alpine ridge and the border into Italy. On the southern side, gentle switchbacks wind through mountain forests down into the picturesque Fleres Valley, with stunning views of the Italian Alps.

Hotel example: Pension Alpenhof

A bus and cable car take you up to the mountain station of the Ladurns Cable Car. From there, a scenic high trail winds along the mountainsides to Vallmingalm, where you can take a break and savor South Tyrolean specialties. For those who wish, an ascend to Monte Cavallo (Rosskopf) rewards you with sweeping views of the Dolomites. The day concludes with a cable car descent to Vipiteno, where you can stroll through the historic streets and enjoy the perfect ending of your hiking day with exquisite Italian cuisine.

Hotel example: Hotel Steindl

After a short train ride, the hike begins on the Peissersteig trail. Through quiet woods and along the mountain slopes, you’ll ascend to the Spilucker Platte, where an impressive panoramic view of the surrounding mountains unfolds. Passing the Salern ruins, the trail leads to the Kneipp facility by the stream – the perfect spot for a refreshing break. Following rocky trails and shaded forest paths, you'll make your way to the mountaineering village of Tils. After visiting St. Cyrill Chapel, you'll hike along the Europa Meditation Path directly into the old town of Bressanone.

Hotel example: Hotel Krone Brixen

From Waidbruck, you ascend to Barbiano, where the leaning church tower stands guard over the Eisack Valley, visible from afar. Passing the roaring waterfall with its numerous cascades, the route continues uphill through alpine pastures and sunny mountain meadows. At the summit of the Seewand, magnificent views of the valley below unfold. After visiting the bizarre earth pyramids, you'll reach the Ritten Sun Plateau. The nostalgic train ride to Soprabolzano and the subsequent gondola ride to Bolzano provide an atmospheric finale.

Hotel example: Hotel Post Gries