Into the Pidigtal – pastures along our path

Starting point: Head of the valley in St. Magdalena in the Gsieser Valley 1465 m
At a glance: Head of the valley in St. Magdalena 1465 m – Rostmooshof – Messner Hütte 1659 m – Kradorfer Alm 1704 m – Oberbergalm 1975 m – Gsieser Törl 2205 m – Weißbachalm 2112 m – Acherle 1867 m – Hackler Löcher 1650 m – Ampfertal 1597 m – St. Magdalena
Altitude difference: 775 m
Level of difficulty: Mountain tour
Hiking time: 6 hours
Distance: ca. 16 km

Route description: From the head of the valley, on the paved road, follow the signpost number 49 into the valley, passing typical farms and a wood turner’s workshop. Walk through the magnificent spruce forest and hear the roaring noise of the wild torrent on your right and the tinkling of cowbells from the nearby pastures. At the reservoir at 1500 m above sea level, a little path diverts on the right hand side, leading over the Pidig Stream. Follow the path on the orographic left side of the mountain stream, which takes you on a rustic route to the Kradorfer Alm at 1704 m where you can stop for food and drink. Once there, you need to change onto the right hand side of the stream and walk on the gravel path number 49 up the valley, passing weather-beaten hay barns. On both sides of this walk vast floral carpets of seasonal wild flowers delight every hiker – the deep and sunny southern slopes are difficult to top when it comes to plant diversity. There are arnica, various wild orchids, blue monkshood, the deep red and strong-smelling nigritella, and various types of primroses, to mention just some. At 1975 m, you reach the Oberbergalm (rest point), its hay meadows surrounded by age-old drystone walls face a stunning south-western panorama of the Dolomites. You can now continue the somewhat steeper climb to the Törl (roughly 50 min.); or choose the route over the Oberberg onto the path 2000 that comes across from the Gsieser Törl at approximately 2240 m above sea level. Now cross the sunny slope in a westerly direction, finally reaching the Weißbachalm (2112 m) after 1 ½ km, which offers a magnificent scenic view and the possibility to rest and refresh. From here, you can walk downhill, following path number 53 to the Acherle (1867 m); there, you have the opportunity to either continue your descent into the valley, or to turn right at the fountain and follow the much more idyllic path through the forest (always number 53) and through the Ampfertal to St. Magdalena.

Family-friendly walk to the Aschtalm

Starting point: Parking area at hamlet Huben in St. Magdalena/Gsieser Tal Valley
At a glance: Parish Church of St. Magdalena 1400 m – fire station – hamlet Huben – Mountain station – Aschtalm 1950 m
Altitude difference: 353 m
Level of difficulty: easy
Hiking time: 45 minutes

Route description: Starting from the car park at the hamlet Huben, follow the forest road number 10 through the woods. Enjoy its clean fresh air by taking your time and make sure to take a good view at the surrounding “Gsieser Alps”, the so-called second floor of our valley. Over the decades, local farmers were dependent on the alpine pastures in summer and their aromatic and healthy hay, full of wild herbs, for the feeding during long winters. During the summer months, while observing the local farmers cutting the grass on the steep meadows, one can virtually feel how these people are deeply rooted in the soil, but also guess at the economic dependence of some of the smallholding farmers. Before you notice, you reach the Aschtalm (1950 m), where you can stop for food and drink. For your return, choose the same stroll back.

Walk into the quiet realm of the mountain pastures of Versell

Starting point: Next to the Parish Church of St. Martin in the Gsieser Valley (1276 m)
At a glance: Car park in St. Martin in the Gsieser Valley next to the parish church 1276 m – Kahn- und Kircher Wirt 1276 m – Pater-Haspinger-House – Außerhütten 1640 m – Hinterschuher Alm 1868 m – Tolder Alm 1940 m – Kaserran 1942 m – Schuster Alm 2056 m – and back to St. Martin
Altitude difference: until Hinterschuher Alm 586 m – just above the Schuster Alm 894 m
Level of difficulty: moderate
Hiking time: 4 hours

Route description: Pass the Kahn- and Kircher Wirt and the Pater-Haspinger-House, follow the alpine path along its many turns uphill over the “Sunnewentegge” to the Außerhütten. Slightly ascending, the hike leads over a bridge, and then parallel to the stream continues to the Hinterschuher Alm at 1862 m above sea level (rest point). The hike so far takes about two hours. Whoever wants to experience the core part of these pastures, needs to follow the alpine path until shortly before the Tolder Alm at 1940 m above sea level (rest point). There, carefully cross the stream and walk to the Stegile Hut (1959 m), following the narrow trail you pass old, lichen-covered drystone walls. On your left side, alpine pastures spread wide with their typical hay barns, some of them small and some of them large. These sheds, however, are not just vestiges of our cultural landscape and identity; they are still used and maintained by local farmers. At an altitude of 2170 m, leave the narrow trail and return on path number 44, across the Schuster Alm (2056 m) and the Verselltal, to St. Martin.

Farmhouse excursion in Pichl

Starting point: Parish Church of Pichl (1260 m)
At a glance: Parish Church of Pichl – hamlet Henzing – Inner- and Außerförrer Farmhouses –Hamlet Wiesen – Brückenwirt – Talblickweg – Sinner Farms – Hamlet Durnwald – Greiter Stöckl – Parish Church of Pichl
Level of difficulty: easy
Altitude difference: 70 m
Hiking time: 3 ½ hours
Distance: ca. 8,5 km

Valuable tips and information: This hiking tour takes you along the bed of the Gsieser Valley, in some parts slightly higher than that. Starting at the parish of Pichl (or Outer Pichl), you walk from farmhouse to farmhouse out of the valley until you reach the hamlet Wiesen near Taisten, then cross the Gsieser or the Pidig Stream and follow the route on the opposite side into the valley back to the starting point. The little gradient route predominately follows quiet driveways and the old Gsieser Road, leading from farm to farm. There is hardly any traffic and it is therefore an enjoyable walk.

Route description: Starting from Pichl’s church (1260 m), first follow its access road, then keep right and walk across the fields slightly descending towards the hamlet Henzing. From there, continue out of the valley to the farmhouses Innerförrer and Außerförrer, then westwards across meadows and woods. Cross the Stream Maar and reach the hamlet of Wiesen (1219 m) and briefly visit the Brückenwirt (not a refreshment point) on the Gsieser Road (ca. 1190 m); from Pichl 1 ½ hours. Cross the Gsieser Stream on the close-by bridge and follow the signs “Talblickweg” along the foot of the mountain in an almost flat hike into the valley to the Sinner farmhouses (1194 m) and the Durnwald hamlet. There, turn left and on the access road head north over the stream to the Gsieser valley road (there you will find the so-called “Greiter Stöckl”). Keep right, ascending back towards Pichl; from Brückenwirt ca. 2 hours.

View-over-the-Gsieser-Valley route – an easy hike on the nature trail

Starting point: several opportunities of joining the route
Level of difficulty: easy
Altitude difference: max. 473 m
Hiking time: in total 9-10 hours (we recommend, however, to only do a part of the route)
Distance: ca. 35 km

Valuable tips and information: As the name suggests, this walk offers a particular instructive view of the Gsieser Valley, not only from one viewpoint, but from endless ones. Considered as a whole, the View-over-the-Gsieser-Valley route represents an even hiking route that is uniformly marked with white dots and well signposted, circuiting the entire Gsieser Valley just little over the bottom of the valley. Following partly the old valley road and partly access roads to farms and other forest roads, the route takes you from the Welsberg/Taisten area on one side of the valley to the head of the valley near St. Magdalena and back again on the opposite side. The route is suitable for young and old alike and enchants hikers with its pine-scented woods, flowering meadows, traditional Gsieser farmhouses and pretty villages and hamlets. Experience this interesting walk, its characteristics, and the beautiful natural and cultural landscape of the Gsieser Valley on foot and off the main roads. Due to the considerable length of the route, however, we suggest to only do a section of the entire hike. Several circular walks are possible that can be started or ended in Welsberg, Taisten, Pichl, St. Martin, St. Magdalena or many other locations. Due to the multiple route possibilities, we won’t give a detailed route description. With the help of a hiking map and exact observance of the signposts, you can’t miss your chosen route.

Pidig-, Messner Hut and Kradorfer Alm – beautiful short hikes at the Gsieser head of the valley

Starting point: Parish Church of St. Magdalena in the Gsieser Valley 1398 m
At a glance: Parish Church of St. Magdalena – head of the Valley – Rotmooshof – Pidig Alm –Kradorfer Alm – Messner Hütte – Hinterbergkofelalm – Parish Church of St. Magdalena
Level of difficulty: easy
Altitude difference: 422 m
Hiking time: 2 ½ hours
Distance: ca. 9 km

Valuable tips and information: This short hike – almost a stroll – leads from St. Magdalena to the Pidigalm and to the close-by pretty sheds and barns of the Messner Hut and the Kradorfer Alm, where you can stop for refreshments. Both huts are situated within an area of alpine pastures with striking mountains towering above and offer incredible views of the Gsieser Valley. The Pidigalm still bears its original field name, which was already mentioned in a document over a thousand years ago. The area provides a good opportunity for a circular hike, as there are a comfortable small forest road on one side of the valley and an unspoiled natural path on the other, both leading to your destination.

Route description: From St. Magdalena (1398 m), briefly continue to the head of the valley (1465 m); on the narrow road continue roughly for ten minutes into the valley to the innermost farms; then follow the access road to the Alm (no through traffic) until you reach the footpath, diverting on your right. As one pleases, you can now either continue on the narrow road or follow the footpath (number 49) into the valley, which crosses a stream at some point and, after an initial ascent, remains fairly plane. Both options take about 45 minutes and lead to the Pidigalm with the Messner Hut (1659 m) on the orographic right side of the river (downstream) and the Kradorfer Alm (1704 m) on the opposite side of the valley. Both locations offer refreshments and a good opportunity to rest. Return for keen hikers: Just slightly beyond the Pidigalm by the Messner Hut, follow the signpost for “Hinterbergkofel”. First, briefly continue upwards on the western slope, then turn left over a little stream and slightly ascend, on a well-marked forest road, to the Hinterbergkofelalm (1820 m) in just over twenty minutes. From there, return on the forest road (number 53), slightly descending across the forest and down to the starting point; from Kradorfer Alm approximately 1 ½ hours.

Nature discovery trail – Gsieser Almweg 2000

Starting point: Head of the valley at St. Magdalena in the Gsieser Valley 1465 m
At a glance: Head of the valley in St. Magdalena – Köfler Tal – Tscharnietalm – Kasermähder Alm – Gipfelalm – Stumpfalm – Kaser Alm – Pfoital – Uwaldalm – St. Magdalena head of the valley
Level of difficulty: easy to moderate
Altitude difference: 730 m
Hiking time: 4 hours
Distance: ca. 15 km

Valuable tips and information: The Gsieser Valley has exceptionally many and beautiful alpine pastures; most of them offer snug rest and refreshment opportunities. As the name “Almweg 2000” already suggests, this route takes you from alp to alp at an altitude of approximately 2000 metres. Of the many different route possibilities, here we recommend a hike that offers the best views and shows the stunning alpine flora, namely from the Tscharnietalm in the south to the Uwaldalm in the north. This particularly rewarding hike is a round trip that can be walked in either direction and is easy for the regular hiker.

Route description: Follow the road from St. Magdalena briefly into the valley, turn right over the stream and then follow the signposts number 47 (driveway) up through the Köfler Tal in south-eastwardly direction. At the fork, turn right and follow the forest road number 48 through the forest up until you reach the Tscharnietalm at 1976 m altitude (hiking time about 1 ½ hours). From there, follow the red markings onto the moderately steep mountain path in northward direction to a narrow ridge; on the other side, slightly descending and crossing the slopes, still in northward direction, you reach the Kasermähder Alm (2048 m). Continue across the slopes, in and out of the tree line, to the Gipfelalm (2104 m). There, you can either keep to the path and carry on to the Kaser Alm (longer option); or, walk in a slight descent to the Stumpfalm (2001 m; and rest point) and then on a wide and comfortable road to the already-mentioned Kaser Alm (2076 m; rest point). From the Kaser Alm, follow the ascending marked path on the slope into the pretty Pfoital, briefly upwards to a bridge and then, on the western grassy hillside, continue on the marked trail slightly ascending to the Uwaldalm at 2042 m above sea level (rest and refreshment point). Return: From the Uwaldalm you can either choose the wide and comfortable, but also longer forest road, or you can choose the old and shorter, but steep footpath (number 12); its lower end is identical to the initial ascent trail; from Uwaldalm hiking time is about 1 ½ hours.

Gsieser Törl 2205 m – a pleasant and interesting hike on the border

Starting point: Parish Church of St. Magdalena in the Gsieser Valley 1398 m
At a glance: Parish Church of St. Magdalena – head of the valley – Rotmooshof – Messner Hut – Kradorfer Alm – Oberbergalm – Gsieser Törl – Weißbachalm – Acherlealm – Ampfertal – St. Magdalena
Level of difficulty: moderate
Altitude difference: 807 m
Hiking time: 6 hours
Distance: ca. 16 km

Valuable tips and information: The “Gsieser Törl”, steeped in stories about smuggling, is a deep-notched saddle at the top of the Gsieser Valley. In earlier days, it was a frequently used passage into the Defereggental, Austria. The view predominately shows the Defereggen Mountains in the north and the Dolomites of Prags (Italy) in the south. The valley stretching from St. Magdalena to the Gsieser Törl is a beautiful pastoral landscape, with its outer regions wooded. Some of the huts you pass offer a good opportunity to stop and refresh. The following route is easy and manageable for regular hikers.

Route description: Starting from the church in St. Magdalena (1398 m), proceed to the head of the valley (1465 m); you can get there also by car – parking is available. Now continue straight ahead into the valley to the Rostmooshof. Once there, you can keep to the forest road (number 49), or take the easterly footpath, predominately through pastoral landscapes all the way to the Pidigalm with the Messner Hut (1659 m) or the Kradorfer Alm (1704 m). Both locations are ideal for a refreshment break. Now continue to ascend into the valley to the Oberbergalm (1975 m; and rest point) and over lush alpine meadows and past the headwaters of the Gsieser Stream reach the Gsieser Törl at 2205 metres above sea level. From the starting point, this hike takes about 2 ½ hours. Return: From the Gsieser Törl evenly cross the mountain slopes in a westerly direction to the Weißbachalm (2112 m; and rest point), proceed on the driveway downhill to the Acherlealm (1867 m) and, finally, via trail number 53, called the Jägersteig (hunter’s trail), and through the Ampfertal return to St. Magdalena.

Hörneckele and Almweg 2000 – a view of the Dolomites

Starting point: St. Martin in the Gsieser Valley 1276 m
At a glance: St. Martin – Karbacher Farm – Karbachtal – Vigeiner meadows – Hörneckele – Almweg 2000 – Pfinnalm – Aschtalm – hamlet Huiben – Parish Church of St. Magdalena
Level of difficulty: moderately difficult
Altitude difference: 851 m
Hiking time: 2 ½ hours to the Hörneckele; 4 ½ hours including the Almweg 2000
Distance: ca. 12,5 km

Valuable tips and information: The 2127 m high Hörneckele, sometimes also written Hörneggele, elevates just slightly above the treeline to the west of St. Martin in the Gsieser Valley. The mountaintop has a cross on its highest point and is famous for its abundant alpine flora and the breath-taking views it offers. The following route description gives an alternative for the descent via the ascent route along the scenic and floristic interesting Gsieser Panorama Walk.

Route description: Follow the western path number 36 from the valley road in St. Martin all the way up to the Karbacher Hof at 1440 metres above sea level. You can also reach this place by car and stop for refreshments. In the quiet Karbach Valley, continue along the soughing stream until a forest path, with number 52, diverts on your right. Follow this path south-westwards through the steep wooded slopes into a pastoral small valley (roughly 1800 m). Still on the same trail (number 52), past hay barns and the Vigeiner meadows, walk all the way up to a little hollow of the mountain ridge (ca. 2100 m) and slightly above to your right you reach the cross of the Hörneckele (2127 m). The altitude difference is 851 metres and the hiking time is just over 2 ½ hours. The hike is definitely worthwhile and easily accomplished by regular hikers. Almweg 2000: From the Hörneckele, traverse the alpine slopes north-eastwards by following the red markings. At the fork of the Almweg 2000, cross the slopes towards the valley, partly evenly and partly gently descending all the way to the Pfinnalm (2152 m), then to the Aschtalm (1959 m; and rest point); from there, finally descend on trail number 10 through wooded slopes, following foot and forest paths down to the hamlet Huiben and the church in St. Magdalena (1398 m); from Hörneckele 5 km and 2 hours hiking time. There is public transport from St. Magdalena back to St. Martin.

Ochsenfelder Lakes 2555 m

Starting point: St. Martin in the Gsieser Valley 1276 m
At a glance: St. Martin – Karbacher Farm – Karbach Valley – Ochsenfeldalm – Grüblscharte – Ochsenfelder Lakes – descent along der ascent route
Altitude difference: 1279 m
Level of difficulty: difficult
Hiking time: 7-8 hours
Distance: ca. 12 km

Valuable tips and information: The two beautiful, quiet lakes are embedded in a typical alpine landscape just above the Ochsenfeldalm in the uppermost Karbach Valley. The lower and also smaller of the lakes is situated at 2510 metres above sea level and is 40 m wide and 90 m long – the upper lake at 2555 m is located just a few minutes walk away, is similar in width, but twice as long, with a depth of about 4 metres. Even though the hike to the lakes is a bit long, it is nevertheless a worthwhile march, as the open-spaced area really brings out the beauty of the alpine waters and, at the same time, offers a stunning and extensive view of the surrounding region. This route is easily manageable for experienced hikers with mountain experience.

Route description: From the valley road of St. Martin (1276 m), follow the westerly path number 36 for about 20 minutes to the Karbacher Farm at 1440 m (rest point; access also possible by car). On the agricultural road, follow the markings number 42 into the upper Karbach Valley all the way to the Ochsenfeldalm (2014 m; 3-hour-hike). From there, continue on trail number 42 in a north-westward direction, traversing the alpine slopes upwards to the “Grübelscharte” (2394 m); once there, take a sharp right and partly evenly, partly ascending cross the extensive alpine pastures, following the markings number 9 and the tracks in an east-northward direction to the lakes; from St. Martin this hiking route takes a good 4 ½ hours. Return: Either use the ascent route to return again, or, to shortcut the upper part of the hike for at least half an hour, do not return from the lakes to the Grüblscharte (notch), instead, walk straight down the grassy slopes, partly on herd tracks, to the Ochsenfeldalm. From there, carry on the hike down the ascent route and get back to St. Martin after approximately 3 hours.

Summit tour to the Hochstein 2469m – hiking with the chamois

Starting point: a) Parish Church of St. Magdalena in the Gsieser Valley 1398 m, b) Parish Church of St. Martin in the Gsieser Valley 1276 m
At a glance: a) Parish Church of St. Magdalena – head of the valley – Köfler Valley – Tscharnietalm – Kerlspitze – Hochstein – Außerhütten – Parish Church of St. Martin – Parish Church of St. Magdalena, b) Parish Church of St. Martin – Außerhütten – Hochstein – Kerlspitze – Tscharnietalm – Köfler Valley – head of the valley – Parish Church of St. Magdalena – Parish Church of St. Martin
Altitude difference: a) ascent 1100 m, descent 1193 m, b) ascent 1193 m, descent 1100 m
Level of difficulty: difficult
Hiking time: a) and b) 4-5 hours
Distance: a) and b) 18 km

Valuable tips and information: The Hochstein is situated on the Gsieser eastern slope between St. Martin and St. Magdalena. The frequently visited mountain represents the endpoint of a side ridge, forking from the “Kerlspitze”, and offers a spectacular view down into the Gsieser Valley and the surrounding region. The route to the Hochstein can be done from both St. Martin and St. Magdalena.

Route description: a) From St. Magdalena: From the church in St. Magdalena (1398 m) briefly follow the road into the valley, then cross over the stream, following the agricultural road numbered 47 through the Köfler Valley south-eastwards up until the fork. Turn right and by continuing on the forest road number 48 walk up through the forest to the Tscharnietalm (1976 m). Hiking time so far is a good 1½ hours. Proceed on path 48 again in south-eastward direction to another fork. Turn right south-eastwardly and over rocky terrain climb up the steep mountain trail number 48 to a flat basin of the west ridge of the Kerlspitze (ca. 2500 m); continue over the ridge and to your right to another basin (2438 m) and soon reach the Hochstein at 2469 metres above sea level. Return: choose route b). This route is not difficult for experienced mountain hikers. b) From St. Martin: From the church in St. Martin (1319 m) follow the markings number 44 along the agricultural road eastwards through the forest to the picturesque huts “Außerhütten”, which belong to the Versell-Alm (ca. 1850 m; no rest point). There, turn left and follow the trail number 48 north-eastwards through the steep wooded and grassy slopes upwards to the rocky southwest ridge – climb the small summit on your right. The difference in altitude is about 1193 m, hiking time in total 3 ½ hours. Return: choose route a). This route is not difficult for experienced mountain hikers.

Schwarzsee 2455 m – mountain tour into uppermost Villgraten (Austria)

Starting point: Fondo Valle a S. Maddalena in the Gsieser Valley 1465 m
At a glance: Head of the valley in St. Magdalena – Pfoital – Pfoialm – Hintere Gsieser Lenke – Schwarzsee; Descent along the ascent route or over the Hochkreuzspitze or the Riepenspitze
Altitude difference: 990 m
Level of difficulty: difficult
Hiking time: 5 ½ hours
Distance: ca. 7 km

Valuable tips and information: The Schwarzsee (Black Lake) is located to the northeast of St. Magdalena, just little below the Gsieser eastern ridge in Villgraten, Austria. The beautiful and unspoiled mountain lake measures about 200 metres in diameter and thus belongs to the greatest lakes of the Gsieser Mountains. From the lake, keen hikers can climb the Hochkreuzspitze or the Riepenspitze; both routes are described in the following tours. The peaks of the just mentioned mountains allow an extensive and stunning view of the surrounding Deferegger Alps and the Dolomites of Sexten and Lienz. Enjoy also the impressively towering summits of the Zillertal Alps and the Upper Tauern with the Venediger Group – in the west, the Three-thousanders of the Rieserferner Group rise majestically over the Gsieser western ridge. Route description: At the head of the valley in St. Magdalena (1465 m) there is a large area for parking and a refreshment point. There, turn right over the stream of the valley and follow the markings number 12 up to the Pfoital and the alpine tree line. Continue straight into the valley to the Pfoialm (2134 m) and through the Almtal, on a comfortable road, uphill to the fork. There, turn right, and by following the markings number 13 climb upwards into the rear (Hintere) Gsieser Lenke (2539 m); beyond it, reach the lake in just a few minutes via a trail (2455 m). This route is very worthwhile and rewarding and not difficult for experienced hikers. Return: Either choose the ascent route (min. 2 hours) or combine your descent with one of the following summit routes.

Hochkreuzspitze 2739 m – a challenging summit tour

Starting point: Head of the valley in St. Magdalena in the Gsieser Valley 1465 m
At a glance: Head of the valley in St. Magdalena – Pfoital – Pfoialm – Hintere Gsieser Lenke – Schwarzsee – Hellböden – Pfoischarte – Hochkreuzspitze – Pfoischarte – Uwaldalm – head of the valley in St. Magdalena
Altitude difference: 1274 m
Level of difficulty: mountain tour
Hiking time: 8 hours
Distance: ca. 17 km

Valuable tips and information: The mountain is situated to the northeast of St. Magdalena, dominating the head of the valley as one of the greatest mountains of the Gsieser eastern rigde – its peak provides a phenomenal observation point.

Route description: From the Schwarzsee (Black Lake), return to the rear (Hintere) Gsieser Lenke, turn right and follow the signs up and northwards to the mounds “Hellböden” (2710 m). Continue along the ridge north-westwards down into the Pfoischarte (2608 m). From there, follow the signs up and north-westwards to the Hochkreuzspitze (2739 m); altitude difference from the Schwarzsee 284 m, hiking time just 1 ½ hours. Return: From the Hochkreuzspitze, return to the Pfoischarte and continue on path number 12 over the southern back of the mountain to the Uwaldalm (2042 m; and rest point). Still on path number 12, return to your starting point; hiking time roughly 3 hours.

Riepenspitze 2774 m

Starting point: Head of the valley in St. Magdalena in the Gsieser Valley 1465 m
At a glance: Head of the valley in St. Magdalena – Pfoital – Pfoialm – Hintere Gsieser Lenke – Schwarzsee – Bonner Höhenweg – Riepenspitze – Stumpfalm – head of the valley in St. Magdalena
Altitude difference: 1309 m
Level of difficulty: mountain tour
Hiking time: 7 hours
Distance: ca. 15,5 km

Valuable tips and information: The Riepenspitze is the highest mountain of the Gsieser eastern ridge, and together with its neighbouring summits forms a rugged and rocky massif in the east of St. Magdalena. The trapezoidal Riepenspitze is situated between the pyramid-shaped Kaserspitze (2718 m) and the massive Heimwaldspitze (2775 m) and offers breath-taking views of the surrounding area.

Route description: From the Schwarzsee (Black Lake), follow the trail number 12 (Bonner Höhenweg) and then turn into the forking climb tracks (marked), southwards, continue over rocky and grassy terrain and finally over boulders reach the Riepenspitze (2774 m). From the lakes, altitude difference 289 m, hiking time 1 hour.

Return: From the summit, follow the markings number 47 – initially along the edgy northwest ridge, then the steep western side and finally across pastoral terrain down to the Stumpfalm (2001 m; and rest point). Still on path number 47, continue on the serpentine forest road through beautiful woods all the way to the head of the valley and St. Magdalena. The hike down from the Riepenspitze takes about 2 ½ hours.

Bonner Höhenweg und Toblacher Pfannhorn 2663 m

Starting point: Parish Church of St. Magdalena in the Gsieser Valley 1398 m
At a glance: Parish Church of St. Magdalena – head of the valley – Köfler Tal – Tscharniet-Alm – Kalksteiner Jöchl – Bonner Höhenweg – Gaishörndl – Pfanntörl – Toblacher Pfannhorn – Pfanntörl – Bonner Höhenweg – Grubers Lenke – Versellalmen – Verselltal – Parish Church of St. Martin
Altitude difference: ascent 1265 m – descent 1387
Level of difficulty: mountain tour
Hiking time: 8 hours
Distance: ca. 19,5 km

Valuable tips and information: The Toblacher Pfannhorn is situated at the southern end of the Gsieser eastern ridge and predominately faces the region around Toblach; it is one of the most famous summits of the Upper Puster Valley and offers one of the best sceneries. Keen hikers can combine the ascent with the Bonner Höhenweg, which stretches along the east side of the mentioned ridge high above the innermost Villgraten Valley (Austria); route description follows. Those who prefer a shorter version of this route should use the descent route, which is explained below, also for their ascent. By doing so, the route is shortened by about 1 hour.

Route description: Start your route in St. Magdalena (1398 m) on the road into the valley, turn right over the stream and follow the agricultural road number 47 south-eastwards and upwards through the Köfler Valley. At the fork with several signposts, turn right and follow the forest road number 48 through the woods up until the Tscharnietalm (1976 m); altitude difference is 578 m, with good 1 ½ hours hiking time. Proceed on path 48, south-eastwards, up to the fork and then follow the markings number 48 A (left or rather straight), eastwards, up to the Kalksteiner Jöchl (2349 m); from St. Magdalena it is a 3-hour-hike with an altitude difference of 951 m. Now continue on the Bonner Höhenweg, trail number 12, on the eastern ridge, evenly crossing steep grassy slopes for a good 1 ½ hours (4,5 km) in a southward direction to the Pfanntörl (2511 m; col between Gaishörndl and Pfannhorn). Now left, over the northwest ridge of the Pfannhorn, climb uphill to the summit (2663 m); there are several signs for your orientation. Return: From the summit, return, at first the same way you came, to the Pfanntörl and then along the Bonner Höhenweg, on the east side of the Gaishörndl, on trail 8/12. Cross the steep slopes in northward direction until you reach the Gruberlenke (small col; 2487 m). Change onto the west side and follow the trail number 44. The path starts off serpentine; it then takes you across rugged and steep terrain, and finally across pastoral slopes to the Versellalm. There is the Tolder Alm at 1940 m, somewhat lower the Hinterschuerhütte, both huts offer food and drink. Then, continue on the wide agricultural road numbered 44 out through the Verselltal and finally across the Steilwald down to St. Martin (1276 m). Hiking takes about 3 hours from the summit.

Adventure tour “Schlossweg Welsperg” – a walk around the Welsperg Castle

Starting point: Village centre of Welsberg 1087 m
At a glance: Village centre Welsberg – secondary school – Welsperg Castle – Gsieser Stream –Castle Ruins Thurn – Old Gsieser Road – Welsberg periphery – village centre Welsberg
Altitude difference: 100 m
Level of difficulty: easy
Hiking time: 1 ½ hours
Distance: ca. 2,5 km

Valuable tips and information: The forestry office repaired the path around the castle and its grounds, extending the walk also round the Castle Ruins Thurn. The walk is scenic and diverse, offering geological local characteristics taking you through various natural habitats. Village associations, the forestry commission and our local students have enhanced the path with various elements: Discover wooden boards coloured with natural paints, thrones made out of larch, regional traditional fences, boulders artistically positioned, and much more on the short but adventurous circular walk.

Route Description: From the village centre (1087 m), find your way between the houses in northwest direction all the way up to the local secondary school. There, follow the signs of the mentioned educational trail, slightly ascending to Welsperg Castle (1150 m). After you reach the castle, continue along the bends across the wooded steep slope down to a wide bridge of the Gsieser or Pidig Stream (1120 m). Beyond it, follow the former main road into the valley and turn left at the steep slope through the forest up to the Castle Ruins Thurn (1180 m). Then, on the southwest side of the castle mound return down to the old road and follow it to the next bridge at the outskirts of the village – the village centre is just minutes away.

The “Grosse Schlossrunde” – the long Castle Walk

Starting point: Village centre of Welsberg 1087 m
At a glance: Village centre Welsberg – development area – Welsperg Castle – eastside of the Gsieser Stream – Castle Mound Thurn – Castle Ruins – Old Gsieser Road – village centre Welsberg
Altitude difference: 116 m
Level of difficulty: easy
Hiking time: 2 hours
Distance: ca. 6 km

Valuable tips and information: The castle is located to the northeast above Welsberg at the eastside of the Gsieser gorge. The castle is in good condition and has an exceptionally high keep and a stately great hall. It was build in the 12th century, initially belonging to the Bishopric of Brixen – its buildings were drastically altered in the 16th century. The ruin Thurn is situated on a prominent mound on the west side of the Gsieser gorge. It was probably built in the 13th century, unfortunately, however, it has been deteriorating and turning into a ruin since the 18th century – today only the keep and parts of the impressive masonry remain.

Route description: From the village centre in Welsberg (1087 m), find your way between the houses up to the development area until you get to the fork. There, turn left and follow the markings 41 A straight up to Welsperg Castle (1150 m; from the centre about 20 minutes). Continue on the wide road and walk through the forest to the east of the stream, into the valley, to the bridge and cross over to the Old Gsieser Road (1187 m; from the village about 1 hour). On the Old Gsieser Road, walk out of the valley to the foot of Mound Thurn (opposite Thurnerhof); traversing the copse on the hillside of the mound, finally reach the ruins (1180 m). After that visit, return to the road and continue out of the valley; towards the end, turn left into the path number 38, back to the starting point.

Dolomites panorama trail

Starting point: Welsberg – opposite the fire station, at the crossroads of the main and Gsieser road 1090 m
At a glance: On the sunny side of Welsberg along farms to the “Samwald” to Taisten. Back over “Kreuzbichl” and the public swimming pool to Welsberg or connect to one of the Welsperg Castle routes. The hike is also enjoyable in the opposite direction.
Altitude difference: max. 180 m
Level of difficulty: easy
Hiking time: For the circular walk without the Castle walk 1 ½ hours.
Distance: Welsberg – Taisten – Welsberg 6,5 km

Valuable tips and information: The panorama trail crosses those places that landscape photographers had already used 150 years ago to capture the natural wonder of the Dolomites. Right at the beginning of the walk, you come across the “Weiherwasserbrunnen” well; spring water of the highest quality has its source here and feeds the public fountains of the village. Refresh yourself at the fountain, if you wish, then carefully cross the Gsieser main road and follow the signposts. Pass the activities of the business park and reach at the end of the big bend the “Unteren Zäune” (lower fences). Continue westward on an almost even farm lane. A quiet bench invites you to rest with the village nestled in the mountain backdrop of the Dolomites just in front of you. On your right, there is the mighty pyramid of the Dürrenstein, followed by the Lungkofel, Sarlkofel, Birkenkofel and to the very left the Haunold. The enjoyable walk across fields leads to a copse of larches and a fork. There, the path diverts abruptly to the east, carry on until you reach a little paved road. Behind the southern bank of the wooded “Brunstriedl”, the Dolomites of Prags appear little by little, starting with the Daumkofel all the way to the imposing Seekofel. You can also spot the mountains of Olang from the Hochalpenkopf to the Piz da Peres, and of course Kronplatz, the famous ski resort. After a short stretch of forest, you get to two groups of farmhouses. Then, your hike turns again in eastward direction, soon reaching the highest point of the panorama trail, namely the “Sam-Wald”. Continue your walk towards Taisten and behold the village of Welsberg. The Monte Cristallo, the Piz Popena and two three-thousander from Cortina d’Ampezzo tower in the distance – the mountains of Prags and Olang join in the west. After a few hundred metres there appears the Parish Church of Taisten on your left. Also enjoy the view of the Rudlhorn, the local mountain of Taisten, the Gsieser Mountains, Welsperg Castle and the many peaks of the Dolomites from the Haunold in the very east to the Peitlerkofel in the west. After crossing the pretty village of Taisten, you reach “Kreuzbichl”; there, descend into Welsberg. The picturesque view of Welsperg Castle and the Castle Ruins Thurn dominate this particular section of the trail. If you wish, you could connect from here with one of the castle routes. If not, continue down to the village centre past the public swimming pool.

The “Römerweg”

Starting point: Village centre of Welsberg 1087m
At a glance: Village centre Welsberg – north-eastern periphery – Kammerlechn – Gradler- and Karmann Farms – Römerweg – Hamlet Radsberg – Toblach – back to Welsberg by bus
Altitude difference: 700 m
Level of difficulty: moderate
Hiking time: 6 hours
Distance: ca. 12,5 km

Valuable tips and information: Between Welsberg, the outer Gsieser Valley, and the area around Niederdorf and Toblach stretches a long forest with a wide hiking path just above it at roughly 1600 to 1700 metres above sea level. The path bears the name “Römerweg” (Roman Path) and connects the farms of the Eggerberg hamlet in the west with the Radsberg hamlet in the east. Even though no one knows where the name “Römerweg” comes from, it was adopted into the language by the local population a long time ago. Flat woodland and pretty views characterise this high route.

Route description: From Welsberg (1087 m), find your way between the houses up to the northeastern periphery. Continue to the fork, turn right and follow the markings number 41. At first, walk on the narrow path across fields and forest to the farms Kammerlechn, Gradler, and Karmann (1460 m); then, continue on the “Römerweg” (still on route number 41) over the wooded ridge in a partly ascending, partly descending walk in eastward direction. At the fork at roughly 1700 m altitude (from Welsberg 3 hours), you can turn left into trail number 7 and descend the wooded slopes on the north side to Durnwald in Gsies in just over an hour (altitude difference 120 m; from Welsberg ca. 4 hours; and rest point). The actual “Römerweg”, however, continues eastwards and ends after an easy descent at the hamlet Radsberg, located to the northwest of Toblach (1591 m; from Welsberg 4 hours; and rest point). The descent continues from Radsberg, following the markings number 22 through grassy slopes and a forest belt down to the northwestern periphery of Toblach and into the centre of the village (1241 m; from Radsberg 45 minutes).