The Merano High Mountain Trail (Meraner Höhenweg) is one of the most beautiful circular hiking routes in South Tyrol and a true highlight for mountain lovers. Stretching for around 80 km, it crosses the stunning Texel Group Nature Park and can be completed in approximately 3 to 8 days, depending on fitness level and chosen stages.
The trail runs at around 1,400 m above sea level, with continuous ascents and descents of several hundred meters. Along the entire route, mountain huts, alpine inns, and accommodation options provide food, rest, and overnight stays, ensuring a safe and flexible hiking experience.
The Merano High Mountain Trail can be started and finished at various points. In the southern section, there are many opportunities to descend into the valleys of Vinschgau, Schnalstal, Merano region, and Passeier Valley. This allows hikers to adapt or interrupt the route at any time. From the endpoint locations, convenient bus connections back to your accommodation are available.
The sunny southern section is generally accessible from May to November and passes through villages such as Schnals, Naturno, Partschins, Lagundo, Merano, Dorf Tirol, Kuens, Riffian, St. Martin, St. Leonhard, and Moos.
The northern section is more alpine and demanding and is recommended only during the summer months from June to September. It crosses the Pfossen and Pfelderer valleys and includes the impressive Eisjöchl Pass (2,895 m), the highest point of the Merano High Mountain Trail. This region features striking peaks such as Hohe Wilde (3,480 m), Hohe Weiße (3,278 m), and Grafspitze (3,147 m).
Along the entire trail, hikers encounter numerous natural and cultural highlights.
In the Texel Group Nature Park, the world-famous glacier mummy Ötzi was discovered in 1991.
Other highlights include the Partschins Waterfall, the Spronser Lakes – a group of ten glacial alpine lakes – as well as castles, churches, and historic estates such as Juval Castle, St. Prokulus Church in Naturno, and traditional fortified farms in the Passeier Valley.
The historic old town of Merano with its famous arcades is also well worth a visit.
For accommodation in Merano, we recommend the family-run Hotel Westend.
To enhance your stay, the package includes a 2-hour entrance to the Terme Merano.
Treatment appointments can also be arranged before arrival.
Cancellations must be made at least 48 hours in advance; otherwise the service will be considered used or charged separately.
Hike in the Texelgruppe Nature Park