Hikes in Mals

The municipality of Mals lies at 1,050 metres above sea level in the upper Vinschgau Valley and has a number of scenic contrasts that make the place so charming. On the one hand, the almost four-thousand-metre-high glaciers invite winter sports fans in particular to take part in sporting activities until well into spring, while on the other hand, the mild climate at the bottom of the valley is responsible for the fact that the area around Malles begins to blossom as early as the beginning of March. Already in spring, hikes through blossoming fruit fields are tempting here.

Mals also has a lot to offer in terms of culture. Excursion destinations such as the 900-year-old Marienberg Abbey, Lake Reschen, from which a church spire rises as if enchanted, or Glums, the smallest town in Italy, always attract numerous visitors. The cult Tyrolean city of Merano is also only an hour's drive away, or an extended bike ride on the Vischgau cycle path from Mals.

With the imposing backdrop of the Ortler massif and the Upper Vinschgau landscape, a leisurely hike around Lake Haider is a highlight for families or anyone looking forward to a leisurely tour, especially in summer. The best place to start is at the bus stop St. Valentin auf der Haide and set off on the circular walk around the lake. It doesn't matter in which direction you set off. The special thing about this tour, apart from the beautiful view, is the various information boards where you can learn more about the fauna, flora and landscape at regular intervals.

In total, this five-and-a-half-kilometre tour takes about one and a half hours. During your hike, you can also take a break and fortify yourself on one of the numerous picnic meadows directly by the lake. In summer, a dip in the cold water is also very refreshing. There are no places to stop along the way, so a picnic on the way is perfect for refreshment.

On a tour from Schludern to the medieval Churburg castle, you will follow historical hiking trails. The very well preserved building from the 13th century is well worth a visit. Inside, for example, you can marvel at a collection of historical furniture. The hiking trails after the visit to Churburg Castle are equally steeped in history.

They are open to the public.

They lead along the Schludenser Berkwaal, a centuries-old irrigation canal.

Other highlights in the course of the hiking tours along the Waal are the gorge of the Saldurbach and the historic sites at Ganglegg. Especially if you are interested in history, this tour is an absolute must for you. It covers a good eight kilometres and takes about three hours.

Other recommended hiking tours around Mals:

• Round hike on the Mals sunny slope
• On the Spitzige Lun
• Sesvennahöhenweg