Is summer your favorite season? … it’s ours too!
Every season has its charm here, but summer is truly special. The days are long, the sun warms the heart, and a dip in cool water refreshes the body. Mornings begin with the cheerful chirping of birds, while balmy evenings invite you to sit outside and chat for hours. And in between? The mountains of South Tyrol call to us. Can you hear them too?
… off on an adventure The best way to experience nature is on foot
We’d love for you to stay at Bründlerhof all day—but if you're craving a bit of outdoor adventure, the surrounding area is just perfect. From gentle hills to towering peaks, there are countless trails to explore—whether you’re hiking, biking, or stopping at an alpine hut for a delicious Kaiserschmarrn. A must-do? A walk along the Marlinger Waalweg, just a few minutes from us. This scenic trail follows historic irrigation channels through the foothills, offering breathtaking views of Merano, the Etsch Valley, and the surrounding mountains. Also worth exploring: the extensive trail network on Marlinger Berg and Vigiljoch, as well as exciting themed paths for both big and small explorers!
Marlinger Waalweg
At 12 km, the Marlinger Waalweg is the longest Waalweg (irrigation canal path) in South Tyrol. It starts at the Töll Bridge and follows the water channel along well-maintained trails, passing through apple orchards, vineyards, chestnut trees, and shaded forests. After Lebenberg Castle, this historic path, built over 250 years ago, gently descends along the mountainside until it reaches Lana in the Etsch Valley.
Hikers along the entire route are rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. The diverse cultural and natural landscape offers breathtaking vistas of Merano, the Etsch Valley, and the impressive Texel Group. Thanks to excellent public transport connections, you can leave your car behind and explore this scenic trail hassle-free.
Marlinger Höhenweg
The Marlinger Höhenweg runs along the Marlinger Berg with minimal elevation changes, winding through mixed and deciduous forests. Hikers are rewarded with spectacular views of the Merano basin.
Adventure Trails for Familiesn
Squirrel Trail (Eichhörnchen-Weg)
This nature and adventure trail in Marling is designed as a circular route spanning just over 1 km, featuring 23 interactive stations for the whole family. Divided into play, sport, and rest zones, the trail offers educational insights into forests and woodlands. Highlights include an adventure rope course and a forest classroom, perfect for young and old nature lovers alike.
Forest Experience Trail (Walderlebnispfad)
Stretching 2 km along the Marlinger Waalweg, this interactive trail features 13 stations offering fascinating insights into the flora and fauna of the Marlinger Forest. The trail is family-friendly, easy to walk, and even accessible with a stroller in some parts.
Vigiljoch
Rising above Marling, the Vigiljoch is a car-free mountain paradise, perfect for hiking and breathtaking views. It is known as the Marlinger Berg on its eastern side and offers countless hiking options, including the Marlinger Waalweg, Marlinger Höhenweg, and Eggersteig.
A cable car connects the valley to the Vigiljoch mountain station (1,438 m), which serves as the starting point for numerous hikes. One of the most popular is the circular hike to St. Vigilius Church, the Schwarze Lacke lake, and back via the Panorama Trail No. 7.
For experienced hikers, the six-hour ascent from the chairlift station to the Naturnser Hochwart (2,607 m) rewards you with a stunning 360° mountain view.
Those seeking an extra challenge can hike up to Vigiljoch via the Jochweg, Flatschersteig, or Ochsentod-Steig, each requiring a demanding 1,000-meter altitude gain—perfect for seasoned mountaineers.
Martinsweg Circular Trailartinsweg
The Martinsweg is a gentle circular nature trail near the Eggerhöfe, offering quiet reflection spots and scenic lookouts. Starting at the Eggerhof Inn parking lot, the 4 km loop follows trail No. 9, then No. 27, leading up to a viewpoint before circling back to the inn.
Meraner Höhenweg
One of the most spectacular long-distance hiking trails in the Alps, the Meraner Höhenweg (Trail No. 24) is a 100 km loop through the Texel Group Nature Park. Created by AVS mountain guides Robert Schönweger and Helmuth Ellmenreich and opened in 1985, the route takes five to eight days to complete and offers breathtaking views of Merano, Vinschgau, the Dolomites, and the Ortler Massif on clear days.
The southern section winds through Mediterranean landscapes, while the northern segments traverse high-alpine terrain. Along the way, hikers gain insight into South Tyrol’s mountain farming culture, shaped over centuries.
Numerous entry and exit points allow hikers to start or end their journey at various locations. Many access points are reachable by cable car, public transport, car, or taxi. Some sections require surefootedness and a head for heights, but safety measures like chains, ropes, and railings are in place.
The Meraner Höhenweg also offers plenty of huts and guesthouses serving delicious South Tyrolean specialties, making the journey a culinary adventure as well!