Hiking & cycling

Exploring nature

There are countless hiking paths and cycle paths to explore in and around Meran – whether you are a sports buff seeking a new challenge or a couple looking for a leisurely, romantic walk, there’s something to suit all tastes. Immerse yourself in the Alpine-Mediterranean atmosphere of the spa town and make wonderful memories!

The Tappeiner promenade

See Meran from above

 

The Tappeiner promenade is named after Franz Tappeiner, a doctor and botanist from the Vinschgau valley who donated it to the town. This four-kilometre path unwinds above the rooftops of Meran, from the Gilf promenade to the hamlet of Gratsch, and boasts a wonderful display of botanical variety that ranges from Alpine to exotic plants – a feast for the eyes, especially in spring and summer. Add the wonderful view over the town and the Etschtal valley, and it’s easy to see why the Tappeiner promenade is one of the most popular parts of Meran. Even better, the Tappeiner promenade is also barrier-free and therefore accessible to families with prams and visitors with reduced mobility.

The Waalweg paths

Walk along ancient water channels

 

Ranking among the Meran area’s most popular walks, the Waalweg paths are narrow footpaths that run along the irrigation channels used centuries ago by Meran and Vinschgau valley farmers to irrigate their fields, orchards and vineyards. Nowadays, they have become leisurely walks that reward locals and tourists with magnificent views over Meran and the Etschtal valley. The most popular ones include the Maiser Waalweg in Obermais (8 km), the Algunder Waalweg (6 km), the Marlinger Waalweg (12 km) and the Schnalser Waalweg (11 km), which leads to Juval Castle.

The cycle paths

Ready to saddle up?

 

Hitting the cycle paths in and around the Meran area is a great way to explore the area and enjoy the natural landscape. The Etschtal cycle path (approx. 30 km) takes you from Meran to Bozen, while the Vinschgau cycle path (approx. 55 km) from Meran to Mals packs some incline, making it a bit more challenging. With both you have the option of taking the train back to Meran – perfect for families with children. There’s also the Passeier valley cycle path that leads from Meran to St. Leonhard in Passeier: approximately 20 km long, it is suitable for families.