From Meran to Lake Garda with Charm
South Tyrol, Brenta-Dolomites & Trentino.
Arrival in Meran
Enjoy the Mediterranean flair in this wonderful and cultural town in the heart of South Tyrol. Wander around the charming arcades or follow in the footsteps of Emperess Sissi along the 'Passer' esplanade.
Meran – Nals
Along the Waal paths you venture through apple plantations before arriving at an impressive waterfall. Soon your trail leads you through the hills of the chestnut place Tisens and up to the historic little church of St. Christoph. After hiking through a beautiful woodland with fantastic views deep into the Etsch valley you reach Nals, an idyllic little village in the middle of apple orchards and vineyards.
Today you can look forward to a fascinating hike on the trail of castles. On interesting and steep roads you walk from fortress to fortress where you can admire diverse historic architecture. In the afternoon you wander through the region of ‘holes in the ice’, a natural phenomenon which gives you the chance to discover icicles in midsummer. Past the tower of St. George and many more vineyards, you will soon reach Lake Kaltern.
In the morning you travel to the Mendelpass (saddle of Mendel) by train. Enjoy the phenomenal view before you continue your comfortable walk over the plateau towards Nonstal, the language and provincial border. Into amazing canyons and through idyllic small villages to the pilgrimage site of Saint Romedio and past two small sparkling lakes, you will soon reach Coredo. Here you can enjoy the Italian comfort in the middle of Trentino.
Coredo – Molveno
After a short transfer you can admire the impressive landscape of the Nonstal, before you begin your walk along the ‘Way of St. James’, up to the airy high plain of the Paganella. The path leads through wide woodland areas up to Cavedago with its famous triple-arched bridge. Further on across the wetland of a karst lake towards Andalo and then on to the village of Molveno, situated at the foot of the Brenta-Dolomites and the same-named mountain lake with its turquoise water.
Molveno – Comano Terme
Enjoy the fascinating alpine world of the tall peaks of the Brenta group! You ascend into the mountain area of the Pradel by cable car and you discover one of its most beautiful hiking routes. Stop at a Rifugio (mountain hut) and enjoy a typical Italian snack as well as the impressive view of the surrounding mountain tops, before you slowly descend to the crystal clear, green tarn Lago Nembia. You proceed to today’s final destination Comano Terme by bus, passing woodlands and hilly areas, meandering rivers and the home of numerous small country villages on your way.
At the end of your hiking week you walk through the untouched meadows of the valley of Lomason. After that you climb up to Rifugio Monte San Pietro, where you are presented with a stunning view of Lake Garda. Walk down through winding streets and archways, past stonewalls to the castle of Tenno. On the last few kilometres of your tour you walk through olive groves and Mediterranean cypress vegetation until you reach the goal of your hiking week, the banks of Lake Garda.
Departure or extra days
Tour character
You will mainly walk on well-maintained walking paths, often on the Waal paths which are ancient water systems. In some sections you will be walking on forest trails and steep paths. We recommend a good basic fitness level for walking days of 3 up to 6 hours as well as for longer ascents. Easier alternatives of the daily sections are possible by bus. A varied walking tour for lovers of promising trails.
Category: You spend the night in specially selected hotels with special "extras" and can enjoy all the facilities of the charming accommodations (see "Accommodation").
Included:
- 7 overnight stays as stated, breakfast included
- Luggage transfer
- Welcome briefing (German, English)
- Mendelpass mountain railway
- Transfers according to program
- Ascent fare cable car Pradel-Molveno (only during summer season, otherwise short walk)
- Carefully elaborated route description
- Detailed travel and tour documents 1x per room (German, Englisch, French)
- GPS-data is available
- Service hotline
Optional extras:
- Organised transfer from Riva to Meran available, cost EUR 59 per person, EUR 19 per dog, (transfer Sat / Sun / Mon, morning and Tue (occasionally), afternoon). Booking in advance required, payable on-site.
Arrival / Parking / Departure:
- Train journey to Meran.
- Parking: Limited number of free hotel parking spaces or limited car parks near the hotels, approx. EUR 30 per week. Basement car park (limited number of spaces) approx. EUR 12 per day, payable on-site, no reservation required.
- Return journey from Riva to Rovereto (www.ttesercizio.it) by bus and then by train via Bozen to Meran, approx. 3 hours.
Things to note:
- Tourist tax, if due, is not included in the price
- Bus fare Lago Nembia to Comano, approx. EUR 5 per person
- Further important information according to the package travel law can be found here!
Hotel Pienzenau am Schloßpark
The ‘Rosenhotel Pienzenau’ 4****S is located in the quiet neighbourhood of mansions in Meran and offers its guests every possible comfort.
Apparthotel Nalserhof
Throughout the whole hotel you will find clear, modern decor and a distinctive atmosphere of health and vitality.
Hotel Goldener Stern
Surrounded by a slightly hilly landscape, the traditional wine-village Caldaro and the Hotel Goldner Stern offer you an unforgettable holiday.
Hotel Miraval
Situated in a wonderful, elevated spot in the heart of the Nonstal-valley, is the location of the tradition-hotel Miraval.
Alpenresort Belvedere
The ‚Alpine resort’ is located in the centre of the mountain village of Molveno, with a view onto the impressive Brenta-Dolomites, which appear within your grasp.
Grand Hotel
In spa resort of Comano the noble Grand Hotel welcomes its guests and puts forward every comfort- and pamper-programme.
Hotel Bellariva
Situated directly at the shore of lake Garda, a marvellous mountain and lake view awaits, this time with a Mediterranean touch!
