Travel report: hiking from Merano to Lake Garda

The impressive Waalwege all the way to Nals

Already on the first day the "Perfetto" organisation is clear as we take the bus to the starting point of the shortened variant and wonderful hiking Waalwege. There is still a long stretch (approx. 18 km) ahead of us. Through extensive lush apple orchards, vineyards and chestnut hills, nestled in the South Tyrolean mountains, we hike to our first stage destination, Nals.

The Castle Trail

Well rested and ready, we continue upwards along the fascinating Castle Trail with interesting, sweaty climbs and countless steps to Hohen Eppan Castle and on to Boymont Castle. But that is by no means all. The path continues into the pleasantly cool area of the ice holes, a true natural phenomenon. The last metres on well-paved vineyard paths finally lead us to bustling Kaltern with the prospect of liquid refreshments, showers, swimming, the ‘Törggelefest’ and a little rest.

On dreamlike hiking trails to Coredo

With the knowledge it is a combined hiking route, which includes a ride on the Mendel cable car to the pass, we make an entertaining ascent in the morning. We continue on foot through impressive woodlands and paths with views into deep gorges to the pilgrimage church "Santuario San Romedio" standing on a narrow rocky ridge. Afterwards, there is another climb to the two lakes and the day's destination of Coredo.

From Coredo to the turquoise-blue Alpine lake

The next day a short bus transfer takes us to the stage starting point of Spormaggiore on the airy plateau of the Paganella: a nature park area of the Brenta Dolomites in the Val di Non. Fascinating trail systems - densely wooded and with deep gorges - lead us to our day two stage destination of Molveno, wonderfully situated on the lake in the midst of the Brenta mountain peaks. So it is a must to combine today's tour with a "beach walk" to a gelateria.

The highlight: the Brenta Dolomites

In a good mood and with cooler weather for the first time, we take the cable car the next day to the fantastic hiking routes in the mountain area of Pradel. The Brenta peaks and the precipitous cliffs create an impressive atmosphere that accompanies us to the rifugios (mountain huts). As there is a somewhat steep longer descent to make, we split into two groups before setting off. The evening of the penultimate stage was long and we look forward to the next day and the destination of the hiking trip, Lake Garda!

A perfect end to our hiking week

Lace up the hiking boots once again, take a short bus ride to the Lomasino Valley and set off for the last round to Riva on Lake Garda. After a detour at the Rifugio Monte San Pietro - with breathtaking views over Lake Garda - we walk over stony and rooted paths on a steep incline through the beautiful fortified village of Cavola to our stop directly at the Castel von Tenno. We look forward to travelling the last few kilometres to the bustling Riva by bus.

Conclusion

It was a wonderful week, with a great company, varied and eventful landscapes, good food and inspiring conversations. As always, well organised! A heartfelt thank you to all.