Hikes in Valdaora

Olang, or Valdaora in Italian, is situated not far from the Pustertal capital Bruneck at an altitude of around 1,080 metres. Even from the outside, the village radiates the lightness and picture-postcard idyll of a South Tyrolean mountain village, despite its proximity to Bruneck. Tthe rural planted balconies and gardens within the town confirm the first impression. The proximity to the skiing and hiking area Kronplatz and its lift makes Olang an ideal starting point for active holidaymakers in summer as well as in winter.

A special focus in Valdaora is also on family and child friendliness. While adults enjoy the landscape and the spectacular scenery on hikes, little ones are delighted with the wide range of activities and playful learning opportunities. In the Kids Area Panorama, children can enjoy tobogganing and skiing in winter. In summer, they can explore the giant air cushion, go grass skiing or explore the 3D archery course.

Tip: If you want to travel in a climate-friendly way, take the train to Olang. The municipality is very well connected to the public transport network, so you can arrive at your holiday destination relaxed even without a car.

A particularly popular hike in Olang/Valdaora is the route from Welsberg to the Pragser Wildsee lake. Hikes there start best at the bus stop in the Bahnhofstraße and then take you out into the greenery of the Fanes-Sennes-Prags Nature Park. While hiking, you will pass meadows, forests and pine trees and can discover the diverse fauna and flora of the nature park.

On arrival at your destination, the magical emerald glow of the Pragser Wildsee shines out at you. The lake's legendary aura is no accident. In the Pustertal valley it is said that at the southern end of the lake there is a gateway to the magical realm of Fanes. Today, however, the lake is mainly known as the setting for a popular Italian series. You can end your hikes there in an idyllic rowing boat. Only the bravest can take a plunge into the ice-cold water, even in summer. If you don't want to reach the lake on foot, but by car or bus, please note that only a limited number of visitors are allowed.

If you want to experience Olang/Valdaora authentically, take a tour to the many cosy mountain pastures around the village. The trail starts at the Panoramablick restaurant in Oberolang and takes you past three popular alpine pastures in the area. The constant incline to the Angerer Alm and the Lanzwiesen Alm demands a good level of fitness from you. But the view over forests, lush green meadows and the mountain panorama will reward you for your efforts.

From the Lanzwiesen Alm you continue to the last stop on your tour, the Brunstalm. The hiking trails there run above the tree line and stay at an altitude so that you can enjoy your surroundings without exertion. The regional cuisine on offer in the alpine pastures will keep you going. The tour takes about five and a half hours and is a good 15 kilometres long.