Vacations in Partschins

Holidays in Partschins Attraction - Eating and drinking Hiking trails - Family Sport and leisure - Public transport Info

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Index South Tyrol

5 ​Historical Overview 6 ​Languages 8 ​South Tyrolean Specialities

Village town

11 ​Village information

Culture

16 ​Culture and history 20 Tradition in Partschins

Water

26 ​Partschins Waterfall 30 ​Waalwege Trails 31 ​Biotope 32 The hydroelectric plant in Töll 33 Spronserseen Lakes

Attraction

36 ​Museum 38 ​​Points of Interest in the environs

Eating & drinking

Hiking trails

50 ​The tradition of “Törggelen” 52 ​Direct Sales from the Farms 54 Recipes

Sport and leisure

59 ​Walking along the channels near Partschins 60 ​Thematic Pathways 62 ​Easy hiking Tours 65 ​Medium hiking Tours 66 ​Difficult high alpine hiking Tours 68 Cable Cars 71 ​Fun and Action 75 Rock climbing

Cycling and mountain bike

77 ​Cycling tracks 78 ​Mountain biking

Family

81 ​​Hiking paths for children’s

Public transport 84 ​Experience and advantage cards in South Tyrol Info

87 ​Information A-Z

© 2019 Photographer: Archive Tourist office Partschins, Rabland and Töll, Karin Thaler, Helmuth Rier, IDM, Alex Filz, Jessica Preuhs, Marion Lafogler, Frieder Blickle, Karlheinz Röggla, Angelika Schwarz, trickytine, Stefan Schütz, Manuela Prossliner, Damian Bertoll, Michael Tschöll, Rafting Adventure Südtirol, Tourist office Naturns Text: Tourist office Partschins, Rabland and Töll, IDM Südtirol Graphic: ID Creativstudio, Meran Print: Lanarepro, Lana

Historical Overview At the end of the First World War, South Tyrol was ceded by the victorious powers to their ally Italy. The region had previously belonged to Austria for over five centuries. What followed were Mussolini’s policy of Italianisation, the Option Agreement, the years of bombing, numerous protest rallies and hard political power struggles with the government in Rome. In 1972, the second South Tyrolean Autonomy Statute for the better protection of South Tyroleans came into force, which can now be fully implemented 20 years later. Today South Tyrol is an exemplary model for an autonomy of ethnic minorities.

South Tyrol’s most significant historical facts: • The most famous iceman in the world, Ötzi, was found on the Schnalstaler Gletscher glacier, providing insights into the world 3,200 years before Christ when the settlement of small side valleys began.

• From 400 BC to the 5th century AD, South Tyrol was under the control of Rhaetians and Romans. The Ladin language is a remnant of this time and is still spoken in the Val Badia/Gadertal and Val Gardena/Gröden valleys.

• As a bridge between the Germanic north and the Italian south with two Alpine passes, the region has long been of great strategic importance.

Trade routes, splendid stately residences, market squares, and of course more than 800 fortresses and castles are historical reminders of this time.

• Until 1918, South Tyrol had belonged to the county of Tyrol, and therefore the Habsburg empire, for over 550 years. This period heavily influenced South Tyrol’s culture, architecture and cuisine.

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At the end of the First World War, South Tyrol was ceded to Italy. After years of a policy of Italianisation and harsh political power struggles, the second South Tyrolean Autonomy Statute for the better protection of South Tyroleans came into force in 1972. People of Italian, German and Ladin heritage now live here together in peace.

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Interesting facts and figures about languages in South Tyrol: • The native language breakdown in South Tyrol is as follows: 70% German, 25% Italian and 5% Ladin.

• Ladin is a Romansh language spoken in the Dolomite valleys of Val Gardena and Alta Badia.

• The school system in South Tyrol is separated into three languages.

German or Italian is taught as the first foreign language. All three languages of instruction are used in Ladin-speaking valleys.

• 98% of Italian speakers live in cities. 72% of the German-speaking population live in the countryside. 87% of the Ladin people live in the Val Badia and Val Gardena valleys.

• 100% of the people in the municipality of Martello/Martell are amongst the German speaking group.

• The municipality of Bolzano has the highest percentage of Italians at more than 70%.

German German speakers account for the largest language group in South Tyrol.

Approx. 70% of South Tyrolean's declare themselves part of this group. Historically, the significant distribution of the German language can be traced to the Germanic, Alemannic, and Bavarian tribes, a portion of whom settled in present-day South Tyrol. Many visitors will not immediately recognise the language as being German. On the street, South Tyrolean dialect is the primary lingua franca. This way of speaking noticeably differs from standard German.

Languages in South Tyrol People of German, Italian, and Ladin heritage live in South Tyrol. On a daily basis, town dwellers and farmers converse in over 40 dialects characteristic of the south Bavarian vernacular. Italian is most commonly spoken in South Tyrol’s provincial capital city of Bolzano/Bozen as well as Merano/Meran and in the province’s south. Ladin, South Tyrol’s parent language, is over 1,000 years old and is still spoken by 18,000 people in the Val Badia and Val Gardena valleys. All three language groups in South Tyrol have their customs and stories to tell. Over time, however, the languages and cultures have commingled, resulting in the unique South Tyrolean way of life.

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Italian The Italian language group of 26% is the second largest linguistic contingent in South Tyrol and is the most recent from a cultural history standpoint. The proportion of Italian speakers in the region markedly grew during the fascist regime of Mussolini due to the attempt to “Italianise” the population.

Ladin With a share of less than 5%, the Ladin people are the statistically smallest group in South Tyrol. The language is, however, the oldest. Ladin, also called Rhaeto-Romanic or Romansh, is a neo-Latin or Romanic language that originated from Vulgar Latin and the Rhaetian protolanguage when the Romans conquered the Alps in the first century BC. The majority of the Ladin people live in the Val Badia and Val Gardena valleys. Rhaeto-Romanic or Romansh languages are also spoken in Graubünden in Switzerland and certain valleys in Trentino.

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South Tyrolean Wine South Tyrolean wines have a good reputation throughout the world and have garnered numerous awards. The climate is especially mild in South Tyrol and the region’s geography is influenced by 300 days of sun per year as well as Mediterranean air currents. South Tyrol is amongst the oldest wine growing regions in the German-speaking countries. High quality white and red wines are produced from about 20 grape varieties. The three most important varieties are Vernatsch, Lagrein and Gewürztraminer. South Tyrol is very small in comparison to the rest of Italy, but is nevertheless rich in its unique variety of wines. 5,400 hectares of land annually produce 350,000 hectolitres of wine.

South Tyrolean Apples South Tyrol is Europe’s largest interconnected apple-growing region. One in ten apples produced in Europe comes from South Tyrol. More than a dozen varieties are verifiably richer in taste and have a longer shelf life than their peers from other regions due to the optimal growing conditions.

South Tyrolean Smoked Ham Over centuries, South Tyroleans have mastered the art of making smoked ham, passing the skill on from generation to generation. South Tyrolean smoked ham is a mildly smoked raw ham with an exceptional taste and unmistakable appearance. The defining characteristic of South Tyrolean smoked ham is its preparation. As opposed to smoked ham from the north and airdried ham from the south, South Tyrolean smoked ham is mildly smoked and air-dried at the same time.

South Tyrolean Milk and Dairy Products

South Tyrolean Quality Products South Tyrolean specialities like smoked ham and wine have a long tradition, and a passion for delicious and healthy food has always been practised here.

This is reflected in years of carefully preserved recipes and in the continuous, uncompromising selection of high-quality basic products. The “Quality Südtirol” seal of quality represents agricultural products and foodstuffs that originate in South Tyrol and that have been tested for quality. On the following pages, we will serve up South Tyrolean quality products and specialities, enriched with interesting facts and many tips for you to use.

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An average of twelve cows can be found on a typical South Tyrolean mountain farm. The milk takes just 24 hours to get from here to the supermarkets’ refrigerated displays. South Tyrolean dairy products are produced especially close to nature and production is based on healthy animals and GMO-free production. Milk is delivered from South Tyrol’s mountain farms on a daily basis and the exceptionally high quality is continuously monitored. It is for this reason that South Tyrolean milk has earned the ‘GMO-free’ seal. Annually, over 90 types of cheese are made using this milk.

South Tyrolean Honey Over 6,000 bee colonies collect honey in South Tyrol. The honey is rich in natural ingredients and free from additives. South Tyrolean honey features especially low amounts of water and is therefore highly concentrated and rich in flavour. Bees in South Tyrol have an enormous number of blossoms at their disposal. Wildflower, Alpine rose, dandelion and forest are the four predominant types of honey.

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Village information South Tyrol still has paradisiac places that promise tranquillity and relaxation you can only dream of during your hectic daily life. Partschins with Rabland and Tel is such a place – at just a few kilometres (9 km) from Merano.

Partschins, the main place, is situated at 642 m, Rabland at 525 m and Tel at 508 m. Other parts of Partschins are Sonnenberg, Vertigen, Quadrat and Tabland. Partschins is one of the municipalities with one of the biggest altitude differences in Vinschgau Valley and in Merano and surroundings: the municipal territory ranges from Rabland situated in the valley floor at 525 m to Monte Rosso at 3,337 m in the Texel Group Nature Park.

The sun shines on about 300 days, the climatic conditions are simply ideal.

Orchards and fields extend on 607 ha, whereas 1,336 ha are covered with woods and alpine pastures. Arriving by public means of transport is very comfortable. If you arrive by car, you will soon discover that you don’t need it during your holiday. Follow our motto „On tour right from your door“ and choose among the many connections offered by public means of transport.

The villages are embedded by two mountain sides: Monte Sole and Monte Tramontana. Both sides await you with cable cars that take you up to 1,544 m.

Hiking on 3 levels: numerous paths through orchards, panoramic irrigation channel paths (2 irrigation channel paths with water along the whole track and one with bell) that are especially popular in spring and autumn, alpine pasture huts and Merano High Mountain Trail at altitudes from 1,300 m and many high mountain tours you can choose from thanks to numerous three-thousand meter peaks. Partschins, Rabland and Tel are directly situated at the Texel Group Nature Park which is the largest massif of South Tyrol’s seven nature parks with 33,000 ha. You can take the Merano High Mountain Trail to surround the nature park in about 5-6 days. We will be pleased to give you more information about mountain restaurants and accommodation possibilities at the Merano High Mountain Trail. The Spronser Lakes are the highlight of the nature park and can be reached from Partschins by experienced hikers.

Partschins, Rabland, Töll, Quadrat, Sonnenberg, Vertigen, Tabland

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The landmark of Partschins is its waterfall with a waterfall drop of 97 m and thus South Tyrol’s highest. From 4,000 to 10,000 litres of water per second rush down to the valley during the thawing period from May to July – an imposing spectacle! The high humidity and evaporative cold are not only refreshing, but they also strengthen the immune system thanks to an improved gaseous exchange in the lung.

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The village with its nice cosy corners, idyllic lanes, picturesque mansion houses and farms represents a cultural heritage. Mansion houses, castles and historic buildings characterize the rural ambience.

Cultural highlights: Roman milestone at the Via Claudia Augusta, a tombstone from the Roman Age, technology site with old machines for working the corn fields, residential house and tombstone of Peter Mitterhofer, the inventor of the first typewriter, typewriter museum, prehistoric cup stones at the legend path, old walls, churches and farms. Spauregg residence, Stachlburg residence (owner Baron von Kripp) with wine-growing estate, Gaudententurm residence with distillery, Train World Rabland with South Tyrolean landscapes in miniature, Bad Egart, a museum dedicated to the Austrian-Hungarian monarchy and art bunker of Matthias Schönweger from Partschins. Castle concerts, square concerts and South Tyrolean folk music.

The sports and activity programme is very extensive: cycling for pleasure along the Adige river (app. 120 km), mountain biking on marked paths, paragliding, climbing in the high ropes course, free climbing at two steep cliffs (Burgstallknott und Huafwand), abseiling down the waterfall, archery, llama trekking, rafting, nature park ranger days...

Typical South Tyrolean hospitality characterized by traditions and customs.

Culinary delights with alpine flavours and southern sophistication.

Varied offer of hotel rooms and apartments of all categories.

Hiking & nature Moments of tranquillity, pure nature, calming lapping of water along hiking and walking paths at the water There is no limit to the variety of hiking possibilities in Partschins, Rabland and Tel! Let’s start with the Partschins waterfall, the landmark of Partschins whose waters imposingly thunder down the steep rock face.

Hiking on 3 levels – at the entrance to the Texel Group Nature Park!

Two mountain sides and two cable cars: one cable car takes you to 1,544 m to get to the Merano High Mountain Trail right in the middle of the Texel Group Nature Park, while the other one is at Monte Tramontana and takes you to the most beautiful alpine pasture huts or is a less exhausting way for mountain bikers who like mountain bike trails.

The Texel Group Nature Park, South Tyrol’s largest nature park with its flora and fauna: You can take the Merano High Mountain Trail to surround all the nature park in about 5-6 days. Different stages, mountain restaurants and accommodation possibilities at the Merano High Mountain Trail can be found on the next pages… The fabulous Spronser Lakes are just a slight detour from the Merano High Mountain Trail. They are a feast for the eyes and a reward for the effort!

In the thick of it: Did you know that 8 of South Tyrol’s 350 three-thousand meter peaks are situated in the municipal territory of Partschins?

Panoramic views of Merano and surroundings, of the Catinaccio massif and of Vinschgau Valley with the Ortles await you!

And let’s not forget about the irrigation channel paths, our paths at the water. Both irrigation channel paths in Partschins and Rabland still carry water …guaranteed refreshment!

The wonderfully mild climate, the many sunny days and the typical South Tyrolean hospitality turn your hiking tours into unforgettable experiences!

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There is no limit to variety in Partschins, Rabland and Tel – 10 points that turn your holiday at the sunniest side of the Alps into something really special: • Pure nature in unspoilt landscape in the Texel Group Nature Park and at the Merano High Mountain Trail • 2 mountain sides and 2 lift facilities (cable car at Monte Sole and cable car at Monte Tramontana) • Hiking on 3 levels: irrigation channel paths (paths at the water), panoramic and high altitude paths, Merano High Mountain Trail and high mountain tours with marvellous views • Alpine wellness at the roaring waterfall whose evaporative cold is not only refreshing and vitalizing, but also strengthens the immune system (It is said that it especially alleviates the symptoms of asthmatics and allergy sufferers!)

• On tour right from your door: you can reach the most beautiful destinations on foot. Furthermore, there are very good connections with public means of transport for tours in the surroundings: holidays for your car!

• Partschins, Rabland and Tel will convince you with their originality. A travel in time to old village centres, lovely lanes and picturesque mansions.

• Mountain biking & biking: Cycling for pleasure along the Etsch river or mountain biking at Monte Tramontana. The cable car takes bikers to 1,352 metres where numerous trails await you…

• Hometown of the inventor of the typewriter and many testimonies of history as well as three museums • Close vicinity to Merano: shopping or exploring at only a stone’s throw away • Typical South Tyrolean hospitality with alpine flavours and southern sophistication

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Gaudententurm – Tower of Gaudenz, Partschins The mansion was originally built in 1348 by Meinhard, Edler von Gaudenz (an aristocrat from Gaudenz). Since that time it underwent several renovations, especially during the Baroque period. The Erker oval windows, sundial and coat of arms symbolizing the alliance, date back to the 17th century.

In 1794 the house was bought by Anton Isser, a chronicler from Meran, who four years later changed his surname to ‘von Gaudententurm’ when entering the nobility. It was via his grandson, the Viennese physician and neurologist, Dr. Friedrich Leopold von Sölder zu Prakenstein (1867-1943) that the residence passed on to the present-day owners.

The inner courtyard and cellars are open to the public during the weekly Schnaps tasting events.

The private interior rooms are not open for public viewing.

Spauregg Castle, Partschins This stately home dates back to the XII century and is owned by the descendants of Knight Franz Ferdinand von und zu Goldegg The splendid gardens are the home of many Mediterranean trees as well as an old yewtree, a cypress and an incredible 140 years old, 45 mt. tall Mammoth Tree.

The castle itself is not open to visitors.

Gravestone form the Roman era – Via Claudia Augusta, Partschins At Hochhueben Hof farm in Partschins, a feudal holding of the Salzburg Bishops dating to the 14th century, a Roman gravestone has been built into the front wall of the house on the right side next to the entrance. An officer of the customs station in Töll did this to immortalize his firstborn son, who died only 21 years and 11 months old.

The letters D.M. on the seal (Dis manibus – the gods of death) and the manner of execution of the lettering appear to date to the first half of the 2nd century AD. Roman tombs and coins have also been found across the courtyard.

Culture and History Stachlburg Castle, Partschins This castle dates from before 1300 and was once the home of the Lords of Partschins. It is now the Castle Vineyard of Baron Sigmund von Kripp and his family. It is possible to visit the wine cellar and inner courtyard during weekly wine tasting events held every Thursday.

The interios cannot be visited.

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Roman milestone of the via Claudia Augusta, Rabland The discovery of an ancient Roman Milestone proves that the old Roman road, the via Claudia Augusta, which led up and over the Alps, ran through Töll and Rabland. This particular milestone is now housed in the Bolzano Civic Museum while a copy can be seen at the Hanswirt, the old coaching inn at Rabland.

Parish church of St. Peter and Paul, Partschins This church was first mentioned in a document in 1264 and rebuilt in late Gothic style in 1502. It is worth mentioning some marble sculptures and mural paintings as well as a wooden sculpture by the famous artist Jörg Lederer from Kaufbeuren.

Chapel of St. Jakob, Rabland St. Jacob's Chapel was built in late Gothic style in 1513. On the outer wall, you can see two sundials from the 16th century. The chapel interior houses a pointed arch portal decorated with a little turret as well as two altarpieces.

New parish church of Rabland The Christkönigskirche church, also known as the new parish church, was built between 1961 and 1963. The church has a flat-ceiling nave with a separate altar area. The two stained glass windows are by Heiner Gschwendt from Chiusa/Klausen, the church organ, consecrated in 1987, is by Andrea Zeni, and all other works of art connected with the church, including the granite fountain in front of the church and the statue of the Archangel Michael made of Lasa marble housed in a niche on the church square, are by the artist Friedrich Gurschler.

Friedrich Gurschler was born in February 1923 on a farm near Madonna di Senales/Unsere Frau in Val Senales/Schnalstal Valley and is an honorary citizen of Parcines/Partschins.

Chapel of St. Helena, Töll Gothic building which was first mentioned in a document in 1326. The interior of the chapel offers a statue of St. Helen, two neo-Gothic altars (consecrated to St. Nepomuk and St. Valentine) as well as a crucifix from the 17th century.

Visit: ask at the neighboring house.

Open air Museum of technical machinery, Rabland The collection includes three agricultural machines, all dating from 1903. They are 5mt. in height and are proof that the Venosta valley was once regarded as the bread-basket of South Tyrol. You’ll find the open air museum of Technical Machinery along the river Adige Cycle Path in Rabland.

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The Tradition of “Kiniweihe” An old tradition which is celebrated on 6th. January – the “Dreikönigsweihe” - when the Three Wise Men come to bless your home. The whole family walks through the rooms of the house, praying and sprinkling holy water on their way, and incense, the dried resin from the so-called Incense Tree, is lit in the hope of keeping harmful spirits and danger away from the family and their home. Farmers’ fields and meadows are also blessed and the sign of the “Kini”, the Three Wise Men who are locally referred to as the “Three Kings”, is chalked on the door lintel together with the year and the letters CMB standing for Caspar, Melchior and Balthasar, as in 20 CMB 13, for example. At the end of the ceremony, everyone present recites the Rosary or “Rosenkranz” prayer together.

The Tradition of “Herz Jesu Sonntag” This very popular religious ceremony is particularly important in South Tyrol and is connected to a strong patriotic feeling for the Fatherland. It is celebrated on the second Sunday after the feast of Corpus Christi. Bonfires are lit in the shape of the Cross or a heart on the surrounding mountain sides and outline the peaks after dark and a very special atmosphere can be felt everywhere. This tradition dates back to the XIX century, to the year 1796, when the leaders of Tyrol met in Bolzano to discuss how to push Napoleon’s invading troops out of the country. Sebastian Stöckl, abbot of Stams monastery in present-day Austria, suggested appealing to the Sacred Heart of Jesus to save South Tyrol from the hands of the French. Fires are lit every year on this day in remembrance of the event.

Living traditions in Partschins Customs and traditions in Partschins are closely bound up with the Christian faith and the Catholic Church in particular, with solemn religious processions taking place throughout the year. In the run-up to Easter, palm branches are braided and on Easter Sunday children receive a platted cake shaped in the form of a chicken or rabbit from their godparents, known as a Fochaz.

On the third Sunday after Pentecost the Sacred Heart of Jesus is celebrated throughout South Tyrol. Visible from a distance, fires are ignited on the hills commemorating the local resistance against the historic invasion by the French army. In the third week of September the annual transhumance of livestock from the Zieltal Valley is a traditional event of note.

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Religious Processions as a Ritual in the Course of the Year During certain religious festivities and feast days, religious processions are held in Partschins and Rabland. The entire village, along with its relative unions and clubs, such as the local band, the Schützen and volunteer fire brigade, choirs, and local inhabitants all participate at the event. Thus, processions are a popular and colorful public spectacle, as well as a firmly rooted religious ritual! The traditional and colorful rogations lead through the village and stop at several stations, where the partakers pray and sing. The priest walks along under a baldachin while the partakers carry relevant flags, statues, and other Christian symbols.

The Transhumance of the returning sheep herds in Partschins Autumn in Partschins is not only renowned for the various events relating to the Törggelen (tasting the young wine along with roast chestnuts and seasonal dishes), but also for the transhumance of the returning sheep herds, from Tel Valley to their shelters. In september, some 1,300 head of sheep will be expected to descend on the Schutzhütte Nasereit / rifugio Nasereit. Some of the sheep, which have been marked in color, will later be separated for shearing, known here as "Schofschur".

The return of the herds from summer pastures in the Tel high mountain valley is appropriately celebrated at the Nasereit Alpine shelter, in accordance with the old farming tradition.

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The important and most spectacular processions in our community are: • the Josefi procession (in March) • the Corpus Christi procession (in June) • the Sacred Heart Procession (in June) • the Thanksgiving procession (in October)

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Water world Partschins Parcines, Rablà and Tel are water-rich areas and there are a large number of springs, wells and Waalwege (farmers’ irrigation channels) on both sides of the valley, on Monte Sole and Monte Tramontana. If you take a walk into the Zieltal/Val di Tel, up from the Meraner Höhenweg/Merano High Path at the Schutzhaus / rifugio Nasereit mountain farm, you’ll hear the splashing of water all along your way.This water flows on to the waterfall at Parcines and then cascades over a 97mt. high drop down over imposing rock walls making the Parcines waterfall one of the most impressive natural attractions in South Tyrol.

A number of springs and pathways trace the old irrigation channels in and around Parcines/Partschins. There are two well trodden Waalwege trails in Parcines and two others start from nearby Tel/Töll. After a strenuous hike, there is nothing better than to relax soaking one’s feet in the cool waters of the river or regenerating in the Rabland biotope.

The water world in Partschins

Blue gold

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Above Parcines, the clear waters of the Spronserseen lakes on the mountain plateau reflect the surrounding mountain peaks. An enjoyable family picnic at the Parcines waterfall (the village emblem) is an unforgettable experience. The water vapor beneath the waterfall creates a particularly salubrious microclimate, euphemistically referred to as the Parcines Alpine Wellness, helping to relieve respiratory ailments and strengthens the immune system.

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The Healing Power of Nature Visitors and locals alike should be able to enjoy the many possibilities that stem from the Alpine landscape, the three different elevations and the special microclimate around the waterfall, and derive specific added benefits for their health. With its natural resources, an imposing waterfall with a curative climate and the variety of possibilities for people seeking activity and recreation, Partschins has set up a pioneering project that not only makes health promotion and prevention of disease possible, but also brings demonstrable benefits for our physical and mental wellbeing.

The Project Partschins Waterfall The “G’sund bleibm! Salute! Take care! project grew out of the collaboration between climatic therapists, medical doctors, hiking guides, nutrition experts and wellness trainers, and has the objective of making the curative benefits of Partschins’ natural surroundings accessible to a wide audience.

Visitors and locals alike should be able to enjoy the many possibilities that stem from the Alpine landscape, the three different elevations and the special microclimate around the waterfall, and derive specific added benefits for their health.

The spectacular Partschins Waterfall Considered one of the most spectacular in the Alps, the Partschins waterfall cascades down the rock face from a height of almost 100 m. It is particularly impressive in early spring with the melting of snow, when as many as 6,000 liters of water per second flow into the Zielbach torrent.

The family hike from Partschins to the waterfall takes about an hour and a half on foot and there is also a shuttle bus. A scenic family walk leads from the Texelbahn Cable Car mountain station down to the base of the waterfall.

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The intoxication of the senses - Night-time hike at the Partschins Waterfall

Abseiling at Partschins Waterfall - The lightness of being

Every Wednesday in May The night-time hike to Partschins Waterfall is an adventure for the senses and an extra special experience. Accompanied by an experienced guide and the sounds of night-time nature, this hike heads up to the waterfall at a leisurely but constant tempo. The ever-louder murmur of the water and the increasingly damp air are hints that our destination is no longer far away. After a good hour-long walk we finally reach it! With a warming cup of tea in our hands, we can now enjoy a unique spectacle.

Partschins Waterfall, which, with a drop of 95 metres, is one of the most impressive in the Alps, is shown off to impressive effect with a light show. Added to this are the sounds of the musical composition by Georg Friedrich von Lingke, aka Rablander Schorsch, which has been specially arranged for this series of events. And to satisfy our taste buds too, the night-time hike draws to a close with the tasting of some Partschins delicacies.

As well as being a unique experience for the senses, this night-time hike to the waterfall is a genuine boon for body and mind.

Return with shuttle inclusive!

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Overcome anxieties and literally “go with the flow” - of the waterfall.

This abseiling trip to Partschins Waterfall is a truly special experience.

Furthermore, the sound of the roaring mass of water tumbling into the valley has a positive effect on our wellbeing. Achieve inner balance with mindfulness and feelings of happiness.

Under the professional guidance of mountain guide Michl Tschöll, it's not hard to “let go”. Completely securely, participants descend almost 100 metres down the right-hand side of Partschins Waterfall using several lengths of rope alongside the thunderous water - even swinging freely for the last section. A unique experience that clears your head and reminds us of the lightness of being. Thrilling moments and unforgettable emotions!

Visit www.partschins.com for details

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Walking along the ancient irrigation channels near Partschins Waalweg is the German name for the paths alongside the water channels formerly used to irrigate the fields in the valley. These ancient trails along the gentle slopes have been adapted into popular pathways for leisurely walks, especially popular with families in recent years.

Along a still functioning irrigation channel above the center of Partschins, the Partschinser Waalweg trail leads past religious sites with spectacular views overlooking the Merano basin. The Rablander Waalweg trail shows how important the old irrigation channels were to agriculture in bygone days. The system of the waterways in Partschins, Rabland and TĂśll is part of the 80 km Meraner Waalrunde Circuit Trail running across the Merano basin.

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The Rabland Biotope near Partschins Not far from the railway station on the Etschtalradweg cycle track along the ancient Via Claudia Augusta, there is a picturesque pond with a rest stop in the Rabland biotope, a natural habitat for numerous species of animals and plants.

During the so-called Daksys Days, park rangers take groups of junior explorers aged between 7 – 12 years on an adventure trip into this natural habitat near Partschins. Equipped with magnifying glasses and microscopes, the mini-rangers learn about the vital role of water essential for the survival of flora and fauna.

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Hydro-Electricity station TĂśll next to Meran The first large power plant in South Tyrol The hydroelectric plant in TĂśll (later nown as AEC-EW and AE-EW) was the first large power plant in South Tyrol, built on the initiative of the Mayor of Meran and Bozen and designed by the Munich engineer Oscar von Miller in 1897; it was connected to the power grid on April 5, 1898.

On the site was formerly located the sawmill belonging to the father of the most famous citizen of Partschins, Peter Mitterhofer, inventor of the typewriter. The waters from the Etsch river pass through a 16 m long weir at the level of Tel, making it a unique contemporary historical monument. The water enters the surge tank, which is situated at an elevation of 496 m above sea level just above the power station, via a 480 meter long free-flow tunnel with a total volume of 6000 cubic meters. The waters of the Etsch river are dammed here, and the lock house located on three masonry columns covered with porphyry stone, built in 1925 for the operation of the lock. It was renovated in 2003, maintaining its original style, as was the former Zieglbrugg (so named because it was once covered by a roof).

There was already an arched bridge built at this site during Roman times, as attested by documents housed in the Johanneum in Innsbruck dating from the 14th and 16th century.

The Spronserseen Lakes near Parcines Approximately 15 kilometers north of Parcines/Partschins, ten Spronserseen lakes nestle at varying altitudes between 2,120m and 2,590m a.s.l. on a high mountain plateau in the heart of the Texelgruppe Nature Park. The largest of these lakes, the Langsee and the GrĂźnsee lakes, together with the other eight lakes, form part of what is the most extensive high altitude lake system in Europe.

The Long Lake (2,377 m a.s.l.) however, is one of the largest of the lakes and features a lenght of 1 km and a with of 300 m. The Sopranes Lakes also include the Green Lake (2,338 m a.s.l.), the Black Lake (2,589 m a.s.l.), the Slate Lake (2,501 m a.s.l.), the Kettle Lake (2,512 m a.s.l.), the Kaser Pond (2,117 m a.s.l.), the Pfitscher Pond (2,126 m a.s.l.) and the small Midge Lake.

Several hiking trails lead by the lakes - in general the area is a really fascinating place, not only due to its special flora and fauna. The Merano High Mountain Trail leads from Parcines to the Spronserseen lakes. From June to October, there are weekly guided-tours to these stunning mountain lakes.

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Peter Mitterhofer The inventor of the typewriter Peter Mitterhofer, born in 20.09.1822 and † 27.08.1893, in Partschins is known as the inventor of the typewriter, carpenter, and gifted tinkerer and inventor.

The house of Peter Mitterhofer is first mentioned as the Zimmerhaus im Obergarten in a document dating to 1431. Peter Mitterhofer (1822-1893) lived in the house for 31 years and developed six typewriter models in his workshop there; the first of these prototypes was also the earliest of its kind, in 1864. It is known that Peter Mitterhofer designed six different typewriter models during the period between 1864 and 1869. The first model (1864, The Unsuccessful) is housed today at the Technical Museum of Industry and Commerce in Vienna. The second model was discovered accidentally in 1911 hidden in a secret compartment in the attic of Peter Mitterhofer’s house in Parcines/Partschins. The third model remains missing to this day – although Peter Mitterhofer travelled with it from Parcines to Vienna on foot in 1866. The fourth model (the Meran model) was created in 1866, with the help of better financial resources after his return from Vienna. This model is on display at the Palais Mamming City Museum in Merano/Meran. Peter Mitterhofer completed his fifth typewriter prototype in 1869 (the Wien model). It was his intention to build a perfectly functioning typewriter. For this model he would need much more time than he had been promised in his subsidy request of 1866 in Vienna.

He made the journey from Parcines to Vienna on foot for the second time in December 1869. There is evidence that Peter Mitterhofer received 150 guilders from the Emperor Franz Joseph I for his Meran model. This typewriter passed into the collection of the Polytechnic, where it faded into obscurity. On June 21, 1910, a typewriter labeled as old typewriter of unknown origin, allegedly Austrian was delivered to the Technical Museum in Vienna along with many other items.

whattoseeinpartschins,rablandandtöll

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The evidence that the model was connected with Peter Mitterhofer is provided by a letter from Peter Mitterhofer to Franz Ferdinand Goldegg zu Lindenburg (1798-1878). The character of the font and a close comparison of the lettering in this typewritten letter leave no doubt as to this analysis.

The interiors of the residence are not open to the public. The inventor’s grave and memorial stone are located in the old cemetery at the east wall of the Pfarrkirche Partschins parish church.

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The world of Museums The typewriter museum in Partschins Church square, Partschins, Phone +39 0473 967 581 – www.schreibmaschinenmuseum.com The Peter Mitterhofer Typewriter Museum (Schreibmaschinenmuseum) in Partschins is named after its inventor. In the museum, there are as many as 2,000 exhibits documenting the evolution of the typewriter from its humble beginnings until the advent of the computer. The exhibition includes 1,400 machines including rarities such as the Enigma, an early 20th Century German-made machine mainly used to encrypt military communications.

Peter Mitterhofer was born and lived in Partschins throughout most of his life from 1822 – 1893. After completing his first typewriter in 1864 he built another and subsequently received an Imperial grant from Vienna before building another three prototypes. The first two were almost entirely made out of wood with needles used to punch the characters through paper. The three remaining prototypes were made out of metal where the characters were instead typed onto paper. Unfortunately, Mitterhofer did not live to see his invention enter production and died in relative obscurity.

Opening times March – November: MON 2-6 p.m., TUE-FRI 10-12 a.m and 2-6 p.m., SAT 10-12 a.m. (every first sunday each month 2 p.m. – 6 p.m, closed on sundays and holidays)

Train world museum in Rabland Gerold square, Rabland, Phone +39 0473 521 460 – www.eisenbahnwelt.eu The Train World Museum in Rabland near Partschins is a magnet for visitors of all ages. Spread across more than 1,000 m2, the digital model railway takes up three floors and is the largest in Italy. Comprising 20,000 pieces, 40 running trains, 400 vehicles, 7,000 figurines and with railway tracks totaling 400 m, the impressive 1:87 scale model is one of the largest private collections in Europe. Junior visitors can take turns driving a model train through surprisingly realistic landscapes. The main 130 m2 Train World Museum complex is located on the top floor, representing a miniaturized South Tyrol.

Opening times End of March, beginning of April – beginning of November: SUN- FRI 10 a.m. – 17 p.m., (closed on Saturday). The winter opening times can be found on the homepage.

The royal and imperial Bad Egart Museum Bahnhofstraße 17, Töll, Phone +39 0473 967 342 – www.bad-egart.com Mentioned in the records dating back to 1430, the Bad Egart spa in Via Stazione/Bahnhofstraße street in Töll was built on an ancient hot spring in Tyrol. The ancient Romans utilized water from three springs as a drink for its curative effects as well as for various treatments. With the arrival of the railway line in the early 20th Century, Bad Egart enjoyed a period of significant prosperity and Empress Elisabeth, the Empress of Austria and Hungary, spent time there. In 1956 the spa closed only to reopen as a museum and traditional mountain restaurant. Today it houses the Royal & Imperial Bad Egart Museum with a sizeable collection of memorabilia from the AustroHungarian period, including numerous antique photographs and some personal effects belonging to Empress Elisabeth and Emperor Franz Joseph.

Opening times March – beginning of November: TUE-SUN 10.30 a.m. – 16 p.m. (closed on Monday)

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Points of Interest in the environs Reschenpass

Moos in Passeier

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MERAN AND ENVIRONS

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Dorf Tirol

Unser Frau 8 Karthaus

Partschins Rabland

Schluderns Laas

Schlanders Kastelbell

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St. Leonhard

St. Martin

VINSCHGAU VALLEY

Burgeis

Jaufenpass

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Martell Stilfser Joch

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Sulden St. Gertraud 14

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St. Nikolaus

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Parish church and the Schnatterpeck Altar Stelvio National Park Ancient larch trees Museum Passeier – Andreas Hofer Museum provinziai – Schneeberg Site

BOZEN 18 South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology 19 MMM Messner Mountain Museum – Firmian 20 Runkelstein Castle

VINSCHGAU VALLEY 21 Martelltal Valley 22 Churburg 23 Mals 24 Glurns – the smallest city in the Southern Alps 25 Laas – the village of marble 26 Aquaprad 27 Benedictine abbey Marienberg

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MERAN AND ENVIRONS 1 The Gardens of Trauttmansdorff Castle 2 Touriseum 3 The Prince´s Castle 4 Curch S. Prokulus 5 MMM Messner Mountain Museum Juval 6 Texelgruppe Nature Park House 7 archeoParc Schnalstal Valley – tracking Ötzis trails 8 Carthusian Monastery Allerengelberg – the monastery of Karthaus 9 Bird Care Centre Castle Tyrol 10 South Tyrolean Museum of History Castel Tirolo 11 Schenna Castel 12 Lana Museum of Fruit Cultivation

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MERAN AND THE ENVIRONS

MERAN 1 The Gardens of Trauttmansdorff Castle St. Valentin-Str. 51/a, Phone 0039 0473 255600, www.trauttmansdorff.it Eighty garden worlds, seasonal blooming, Artist Pavilions and Experience Stations make Trauttmansdorff a unique fusion of nature, culture and art.

Here, botany is something to be experienced. The twelve-hectare complex was named International Garden of the Year in 2013. Trauttmansdorff Castle houses an interactive museum of tourism: the Touriseum.

2 The Touriseum (South Tyrol's Museum of Tourism at Trauttmansdorff Castle) St. Valentin-Str. 51/a, Phone 0039 0473 255656, www.touriseum.it The Touriseum is not just any museum. Live performances, mechanical stages and life-sized figures await visitors at Trauttmansdorff Castle. The journey is full of surprises: the twenty rooms of the permanent exhibition space show how the region transformed from Tyrolean farmland into a modern holiday destination. In two newly designed rooms, an exhibition will shed light on the most striking changes for South Tyrol as a holiday destination over the last 15 years.

3 The Prince's Castle Galileistraße, Phone 0039 329 0186390, www.gemeinde.meran.bz.it/de/Landesfuerstliche_Burg In the fifteenth century, Archduke Sigismund of Austria built the Prince´s Castle behind the town hall. It comprises a courtyard, a battlement parapet, and two floors with a number of small rooms. The furnishings date from the Gothic and Renaissance periods. There is a chapel in the castle featuring a fresco that dates from the sixteenth century. An exhibiton of historical weapons and a collection of antique musical instruments are also of particular interest.

5 MMM Messner Mountain Museum Juval Juval 3, Phone 0039 0471 631264, www.messner-mountain-museum.it The museum in Juval Castle in Vinschgau is dedicated to the Magic of the Mountain and houses several fine art collections: a Tibetica collection, a gallery of paintings of the world’s holy mountains, a collection of masks from five continents, a unique Gesar of Ling exhibition, a Tantra Room and the Expedition Cellar. Trained guides are available to explain all the exhibits. There is also a small mountain zoo, home-grown produce at the Schlosswirt tavern, excellent wines in Unterortl and, at the foot of the hill, a farmhouse shop. Juval Castle always makes a big impression in so many ways.

6 Texelgruppe Nature Park House Feldgasse 3, Phone 0039 0473 668201, www.naturparks.provinz.bz.it Experiencing, understanding and preserving nature – this is the role of the Texelgruppe Nature Park House in Naturns. The largest natural park in South Tyrol is characterized by massive contrasts, from almost Mediterranean-looking areas to rugged, high-Alpine landscapes. High mountain pastures, farms, old stone walls and ancient trails are all testimony to human settlement and hard work. In the Texelgruppe Nature Park House, this world becomes playful for children and informative for adults, palpable and visible. Aquariums, microscopes and video presentations provide exciting insights in the natural landscape of the region, while nature itself can be discovered with all the senses by smelling, touching and hearing on a guided tour.

NATURNS 4 Church S. Prokulus St. Prokulusstraße, Phone 0039 0473 673139 The Prokulus Kirche church in Naturns is one of the most famous landmarks in South Tyrol. The 7th Century frescoes depict scenes from the life of St. Proculus. They are among the most significant art treasures in Central Europe, and the only early medieval frescoes from this period in continental Europe.

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SCHNALSTAL 7 archeoParc Schnalstal valley – tracking Ötzis trails Unser Frau 163, Phone 0039 0473 676020, www.archeoparc.it The archeoParc focuses on Ötzi,the Iceman, who was discovered here in 1991 in the Schnals Valley glaciers. You will see reproductions of his clothing and equipment as well as reconstructed Stone Age buildings. Demonstrations and workshops are held every day such as making fire, baking bread, paddling a dug out and shooting a bow and arrow.

8 Carthusian Monastery Allerengelberg the monastery of Karthaus Karthaus, Phone 0039 0473 679148, www.schnalstal.it Behind Katharinaberg in Val Senales ascends the Carthusian Monastery Allerengelberg, an imposing building with an eventful history of, at times, religious solitariness and periods of secularism.

DORF TIROL 9 Bird Care Centre Castle Tyrol Schlossweg 25, Phone 0039 0473 221500, www.gufyland.com The daily flight shows on Tyrol Castle hill are an inspiring experience. Twice a day at 11.15 am and 3.15 pm captive-bred falcons, vultures, eagles, buzzards, kites and owls are released to fly above the Merano basin. The centers’ primary role is to nurse injured birds back to health and return them to the wild as soon as possible.

10 South Tyrolean Museum of History Castel Tirolo Schlossweg 24, Phone 0039 0473 220221, www.schlosstirol.it The castle of the counts of Tyrol houses the South Tyrolean Museum of History and Culture. An interactive walk through the manor illustrates the main themes of the region’s past, its art, social history and everyday life in a medieval castle. In the keep visitors can explore 20 levels, each dealing with crucial events of the 20th century. Multimedia stations and an extensive collection of documents illustrate the long road to South Tyrols’s autonomy.

In addition, each year visitors can view important special exhibitions.

SCHENNA 11 Schenna Castel Schlossweg 14, Phone 0039 0473 945630, www.schloss-schenna.com Using the bridge, you will come to the entrance of Castle Schenna and from there, if you pass the dungeon, you’ll arrive in the courtyard. An open staircase will lead you to the castle chambers. Castle Schenna in South Tyrol is open for guided tours. Only the wing containing the private rooms of the count’s family remains closed to the public. The halls and grand chambers are home to a painting and portrait gallery, a weapons collection, as well as numerous art-historic objects of Tyrolean history.

LANA 12 Lana Museum of Fruit Cultivation Brandisweg 4, Phone 0039 0473 564387, www.obstbaumuseum.it As South Tyrol's traditional and largest fruit producing municipality, Lana is the ideal location for the collection and display of information regarding the history of fruit-growing Thus the South Tyrolean fruit-growing museum gives an interesting overview on the fruit-growing aspects of agricultural life.

13 Parish church and the Schnatterpeck Altar Schnatterpeckstraße, Phone 0039 0473 333 4342596 The parish church of Niederlana is among the most beautiful examples of South Tyrolean Late Gothic art. Its magnificent winged altar by Hans Schnatterpeck is known far beyond the borders of the country.are home to a painting and portrait gallery, a weapons collection, as well as numerous art-historic objects of Tyrolean history.

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BOZEN 18 South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology Museumstraße 43, Phone 0039 0471 320100, www.iceman.it Ötzi, the Iceman, is a glacier mummy from the Copper Age, who, thanks to extraordinary circumstances, has been preserved down to the present day.

He was accidentally discovered in 1991 by hikers together with his clothing and equipment, on the Schnalstal Valley glacier and has been the subject of intensive research ever since.

ULTENTAL VALLEY 14 Stelvio National Park St. Gertraud, Phone 0039 0473 798123, www.lahnersaege.com The National Park comprises parts of the regions of Lombardy, Trentino and South Tyrol. The Park is dominated by the Ortler mountain range with the famous Passo dello Stelvio/Stilfserjoch. The area extends all the way to Ultental in the East. The Park borders the Swiss National Park to the East and the Adamello Brenta Nature Park to the South.

15 Ancient larch trees St. Walburg 4, Phone 0039 0473 795387 These three larch trees, to be found near St. Gertraud in Ulten Valley, are considered to be the oldest conifers in Europe. Legend has it that these ancient larch trees are more than 2,000 years old.

PASSEIERTAL VALLEY 16 Museum Passeier – Andreas Hofer

19 MMM Messner Mountain Museum – Firmian Sigmundskronerstraße 53, Phone 0039 0471 631264, www.messner-mountain-museum.it As the centerpiece of the Messner Mountain Museum, MMM Firmian in Sigmundskron Castle addresses the subject of man’s encounter with the mountains. In a setting dominated by the various peaks between the Schlern and the Texel range, the museum is spacious enough to be organized as an itinerary between the various works of art, installations and relics that it houses. The paths, stairs and towers lead visitors from the depths of the mountain, where their origins and exploitation are brought to life, and the religious significance of the peaks as an aid to orientation and a bridge to the beyond, to the history of mountaineering and the alpine tourist industry that we know today.

20 Runkelstein Castle Sill 15, Phone 0039 0471 329808, www.runkelstein.info Runkelstein Castle encloses the largest cycle of secular frescoes dating back to the Middle Ages. Its representation of medieval society and its strategic location made it one of the foremost attractions of our region.

Passeirerstraße 72, Phone 0039 0473 659086, www.museum.passeier.it The Museum is at the Sandhof Inn in the Passeier valley, the birthplace of Andreas Hofer. It tells, in a lively and entertaining way, how a bearded innkeeper and cattle-dealer became a Tyrolean folk hero. Alongside numerous pictorial and written exhibits, there are audio stations, films and areas for children. The exhibition “Heroes & Us” presents large light cones to illuminate the fascinating topic of the function of role models. The open-air exibition represents a typical farmstead of the Passeier Valley.

17 Museum provinziai - Schneeberg site Rabenstein 52/53, Phone 0039 0472 656364, www.bergbaumuseum.it Schneeberg - Man vs. Mountain Miners for centuries dug for ore on the Schneeberg, first with sledgehammers and picks, later with heavy equipment. The miners’ settlement was on occasion home to up to 1,000 people, totally isolated far above the treeline. Europe’s highest permanent settlement remained inhabited until the 1960s. Today, an unimaginable 150 km of tunnels penetrate the mountain. Above ground, the intensive mining operations have permanently changed and reshaped the landscape.

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VINSCHGAU VALLEY

21 MARTELLTAL VALLEY The Martelltal Valley is characterized by a high mountain climate more suited to crops other than the fruit farming practiced down in the valley. Is called also the Valley of Berries.

What you shouldn´t miss is to visit the plima gorge, a real spectacle of nature.

SCHLUDERNS 22 Churbug Churburg 1, Phone 0039 0473 615241, www.churburg.com The visitors find an impressive Renaissance castle enhanced by the remarkable paintings in the arcades surrounding the courtyard. The world renowned private armoury is the largest of its kind. The harnesses, all made for members of the family, are of incomparable artistic and historic value.

23 MALS Mals is famous for his romance churches and steeples. In earlier times, the 5,000-strong community once had seven steeples and five of them are still in existence.

24 GLURNS – THE SMALLEST CITY IN THE SOUTHERN ALPS With its 900 inhabitants, the historic town of Glurns in the south of Mals is one of the smallest cities in the world. First mentioned in 1304 as Glurns has hardly changed over the centuries. This gem of the Upper Vinschgau Valley has a medieval centre and boasts the only intact enclosed fortification, complete with fully preserved ramparts and picturesque gate towers.

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25 LAAS – THE VILLAGE OF MARBLE High above Göflan and the idyllic village of Laas, at the foot of the Ortler massive, there is a quarry where the purest marble in Europe has been mined for centuries. This marble is not only pure in character, but extremely hard, durable, and weather-resistant. A series of guided tours and marble-themed hikes leading to the White water marble quarry, the Göflan quarry or the incline quarry railway used to transport the heavy marble slabs down to the valley offer visitors an interesting insight into the history of the local marble industry. The interior of the centuries-old marble quarry itself cannot be visited for safety reasons.

PRAD AM STILFSERJOCH 26 Aquaprad Kreuzweg 4, Phone 0039 0473 618212 Water is the main theme at the visitor center aquaprad. After entering the facility, visitors can hear, see and taste water. 35 local fish species can be seen in twelve spectacular tanks. In an impressive manner, visitors will receive insight into the local fish fauna – from mountain streams to rivers, from high mountain lakes to the floodplain.

BURGEIS 27 Benedictine abbey Marienberg Schlinig 1, Phone 0039 0473 843980, www.marienberg.it Marienberg Abbey above Burgeis dates back to the 12th Century. The highest located Benedictine abbey in Europe is situated at an altitude of 1,340 m a.s.l., since 900 years monks live here according to the rules of Saint Benedict of Nursia. Today, the main hall displays impressions about the daily life of the monks marked by Benedict's credo ora et labora. The exhibition displays also beautiful paintings such as the Romanesque Crypt frescoe with its unique depiction of angels.

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The quality gastronomy in Partschins, Rabland and Tรถll can best be described as rich and varied, ranging from sophisticated upmarket restaurants to typical local pubs serving hearty South Tyrolean dishes.

Restaurants, bistros, cafes and ice cream parlors

Eating and drinking in Partschins, Rabland and Tรถll 48 Eating and drinking

The restaurants and other establishments in Partschins go to great lengths to serve only the best quality dishes accompanied by an impeccable level of service, with a bias in favor of local platters and ingredients. The single-most characteristic South Tyrolean trait is that of hospitality, which begins as soon as patrons enter the door.

Take a look on our homepage to see the opening times of our restaurants and bars

Eating and drinking 49

VERTIGNER CHESTNUT ROUND TRIP The popular family chestnut round trip in Partschins is a great pleasure for hikers – not only in autumn! Walk suitable for children and buggies!

The Törggelen in Partschins

Head north along Hubenstraße road from the Partschins Church Square.

Continue on the Vertigen Road to Route No. 10B to Hotel Niedermair.

Then turn left, following the signs to the Graswegerkeller Tavern and continue on Route. No. 7A back to the Hubenstraße road and back to the starting point in Partschins Church Square.

Autumnal delights: chestnuts and wine

No autumn in South Tyrol is complete without the traditional Törggelen, the convivial annual festivity following the harvest. Roast chestnuts and the new wine are the key ingredients throughout the course of these autumn celebrations in South Tyrol. In the traditional inns and taverns the typical Törggelen menu consists of a plate of barley soup, a mixed platter with local sausage and smoked meat, garnished with sauerkraut and dumplings.

For dessert, roast chestnuts and stuffed doughnuts are washed down with the new wine, locally known as Suser. The farmsteads, wineries and taverns celebrating the Törggelen in Partschins mainly utilize homegrown ingredients for the traditional platters and the new wine matured in the local cellars. The term Törggelen originates from Torggl, meaning a winepress in German. At the Stachelburg Castle wine cellars, there are guided tours with tastings once a week and an old refurbished wine press is on show.

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Direct Sales from the Farms in Parcines FARMYARD – GUTSHOF ISSER Partschins, Gaudententurmstraße 7, Phone 0039 349 5837483 High quality wine from the vineyard of the Gaudententurm manor

STACHLBURG CASTLE WINERY Partschins, Peter-Mitterhofer-Straße 2, Phone 0039 0473 96801 authentic wines from organic farming

DISTILLERY GAUDENZ Partschins, Gaudententurmstraße 7, Phone 0039 348 7341463 Noble distillates with spirit and soul matured in the sun, burnt in copper kettle

DURSTERHOF FARM Partschins, Wasserfallweg 105, Phone 0039 0473 967684 fresh raspberries from early July to the end of October

BIO FARM NIEDEREBEN Rabland, Saringstraße 51, Phone 0039 340 4914072 advance reservation by telephone desired Sale of own products from the farm: wine, fruits, vegetables, speck and tipical sausage products, in autumn: pumpkins, chestnuts, Apple juice, Vernatsch wine

“BUSCHENSCHANK” UNTERWEIRACHHOF TAVERN Töll-Partschins, Weirachweg 2, Phone 0039 0473 967 008 Wine, bacon, apple juice, dried apple rings

FARM STORE KALTENBACHHOF Partschins, Kaltenbachweg 4, Phone 0039 0473 967651 In our family farm shops we sell: Apple juices, fruit spread, dried fruit, herbal juices an fresh free range eggs every day.

RESTAURANT ONKEL TAA-BAD EGART Töll, Bahnhofstraße 17, Phone 0039 0473 967 342 Fruit jam and products from there organic herb garden

RESTAURANT HANSWIRT Rabland, Geroldstraße 3, Phone 0039 0473 967148 Speciality of the house: honey made from blossom, honeydew honey, Italian cantucci, jams, homemade juices

FARM STORE PRÖFINGHOF Partschins, Pröfingweg 52, Phone 0039 340 5539972 In our family farm shops we sell: vegetables and fruits of the saison, fruit spread, juices, dried fruit, tea, and honey from or bees.

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Recipes

Schlutzkrapfen (Schluzer) A South Tyrolean delicacy - homemade simply irresistible

South Tyrolean bacon dumplings Ingredients (4 people): 250 g white bread (at least 2 days old) 150 g South Tyrolean bacon 2 eggs 250 ml of milk 1 onion 50 g butter parsley (quantity as desired) 30 g of flour salt and pepper chives Preparation: Stir eggs and milk and add to the cubed white bread. Fry the chopped onion in the butter with the finely diced bacon. Add parsley and flour. Season with salt and pepper. Let the dumpling mass rest for about half an hour. If the mass is too soft, add some breadcrumbs (no flour added, otherwise they will be hard). Now make dumplings by hand with the help of a small trowel or a tablespoon (divide up the mass for about 8 dumplings). Soak in boiling and salted water for about 15 minutes. Sprinkle with chives and serve in meat or vegetable broth.

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Ingredients (4 people): Dough: 100 g wheat flour 150 g of rye flour 1 pinch of salt 1 egg lukewarm water

Filling: 500 g fresh spinach 30 g onion 1 clove of garlic butter 100 g cream cheese some nutmeg salt, pepper Completion: grated parmesan cheese chives butter

Preparation: Mix all ingredients for the dough and knead into a smooth dough. Wrapped in plastic wrap for 1/2 hour at room temperature. Meanwhile, boil the spinach in salted water briefly, fry with cold water. Finely chop the onion and garlic and lightly fry in the butter, add the spinach and season with salt, pepper and nutmeg. Mix the mixture with the cream cheese and mix briefly.

Turn the dough through the pasta machine and lay out small heaps of spinach fill on the dough sheet. Moisten the dough with a little water, fold the lower part of the dough over the filling and cut out with a cup to halfmoons. Soak in hot salted water until done. Brown butter in a pan, add the Schlutzkrapfen, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and chives and serve.

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Vinschger Paarl Partschinser raspberry cake Ingredients (for 1 cake): 250 g flour type 00 200 g of sugar 7 eggs vanilla sugar 1 baking powder 125 ml of hot water 1 pinch of salt Preparation: Beat the egg yolk with sugar, vanilla sugar and hot water until foamy, add flour and baking powder, fold in stiffly beaten egg whites.

Bake at 180 ° in the oven until golden brown and allow to cool. Brush with raspberry jam and cover with fresh raspberries.

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Behind the name Vinschgauer Paarl, Vinschgauer or Vinschger is a tasty bread according to South Tyrolean tradition.

Ingredients (4 people): 350 g rye flour 150 g wheat flour 10 g salt 2 tbsp sugar 1 cube fresh yeast 2 g fennel seeds 4 g bread clover 2 g coriander 320 ml water Preparation: Mix all ingredients for the dough in a bowl and stir into a thick dough. Then rest for about 2 hours. Beat the dough together again and let it rest for about 3 hours. Preheat oven to approx. 210/220 °.

Portion the soft dough with a spatula and shape into pairs. Put on a floured sheet or place directly in the bread oven. Brown for about 20/25 minutes.

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Hiking & Mountain Tours Find more hiking trails on maps.partschins.com

Tour Start  Tour End

Walking time

 Length

 Uphill height variation  Downhill height variation WAALWEG TRAILS IN PARTSCHINS

ROUND TRIP ALONG THE ANCIENT “WAALWEG” (IRRIGATION CHANNEL) OF PARTSCHINS From Partschins/Parcines centre you follow the Sonnenbergstraße direction west then you pass the suspension bridge until you arrive the Winklerhof.

From there you follow the trail No. 1 near the river Ziel until you arrive to the entry of the ancient Waalweg (irrigation channel) of Partschins. You follow the irrigation channel direction east. At the end of the Waalweg you follow the footpath No. 7A to Vertigen and then to Partschins village center / Partschins

Leisurelywalksandhigh-altitudehikes

Active mountain holidays in Partschins near Meran 58 Hiking trails

2 hours  4.600 m  217 m  215 m

ROUND TRIP ALONG THE ANCIENT “WAALWEG” (IRRIGATION CHANNEL) OF RABLAND Start out at the west side of Rabland (525 m) on a narrow street between the houses and orchards, the route leads to the western end of the old irrigation channel close to the Happichl Inn. From there, walk along a flat stretch along the irrigation channel for about 30 mins until the path ends.

The trail turns sharp right and a narrow track leads back to Rabland in just 20 mins. / Rabland 

1 hour  3.300 m  94 m  95 m

Hiking Trails 59

THE “ALGUNDER WAALWEG” (IRRIGATION CHANNEL) PATHWAY FROM PARTSCHINS TO MERAN

PETER MITTERHOFER CULTURE TRAIL – ON THE PATH ON THE INVENTOR

Starting point is in the village center of Partschins. You follow the "Franz von Goldeggstraße". Then continue on Route N° 10 a, passing the "Töllgraben" towards the Algunder Waalweg irrigation pathway. You follow the Waalweg until you arrive "Gratsch" (a district of Meran). There is where the Waalweg ends!

From there you follow the "Tappeinerweg" trail to the center of Meran.

Starting at the Tel Dam on the Adige River, follow the Adige Cycling Path on the Via Claudia Augusta to Töll Ponte. Cross the bridge and continue along the Bahnhofstraße road up to the K.u.K. Imperial and Royal Bad Egart Museum. Continue along the "Badlweg" Trail and on to the Saringer Bridge in Rabland. Turn left, along Cutraunstraße Street to the Vingschgauer Hauptstraße (the main Venosta Valley road) leading through Rabland.

Following the main road in the direction of Meran, turn left to the Lahnstraße Road then right into Hans Guet Straße street and to Route No. 1 through fields and woods to the Texelbahn Cableway valley station.

The route leads along Peter Mitterhofer Street past the birthplace of the famous inventor, Peter Mitterhofer, into the town center of Partschins.

Passing Kichplatz Square and the Church of St. Peter and St. Paul, continue along the Hubenstraße road where you can visit the well-preserved ancient Roman tomb. Bend to the right along the old Roman Trade road and then left into Zehentstraße road towards Töll. Turn left to the field along Vertigen and return to the Adige Dam at Töll.

 Partschins  Meran 

4 hours  10.000 m  252 m  567 m

“WAALWEG” (IRRIGATION CHANNEL) OF MARLING Starting at the Töll Dam on the Adige River, in the Partschins council area, above Foresta in the Algund parish, then on over Marling and past Tscherms as far as Lana. It stays at an even level as it meanders along the water irrigation channel and is ideal for families with small children. It is lined with chestnut trees and extensive fruit orchards and gives wonderful panorama views out over the entire Meran basin. It is especially recommended for springtime when the apple trees are in full blossom and also in autumn when the trees are a myriad of different fall colours.  Töll  Lana 

3 hours  12.000 m  85 m  266 m

/ Töll

3 hours   8.100 m   199 m   199 m

FOREST ADVENTURE TRAIL ASCHBACH THEMATIC PATHWAYS

LEGEND TRAIL OF PARTSCHINS From Partschins centre you follow the street to Vertigen at 637 metres, stay with signs for the Sagenweg (signage of hiking trail: Stone Age hunters), northeast along Trail No. 7A, until you reach the tavern Graswegerkeller.

From there you follow the Partschinser Waalweg Trail westward until you reach the Sagenweg Trail. From that point you follow a footpath off to the mountain side until you reach the Tablander Straße: take this road for a bit, up to Golderskofel.To return, follow the signs to "Salten" near the start of the Waal (water channel, Saltenstein), and continue on the road down to Partschins!

Our Tip: take the bus n°265 from Salten, or to shorten the way to Partschins, or to visit the famous Waterfall of Partschins! / Partschins

3 hours 20 minutes  8.800 m  590 m  590 m

This easy family hiking round trip starts at the Aschbach cableway mountain station, continuing on Route No. 27A towards the Eggerhöfe Farms.

After walking approx. 5 minutes, take the turn-off to the Aschbach Forest Adventure Trail. The Adventure Trail is a scenic route of approx. 3.6 km, with illustrated information panels and interactive stations along the way, showing the great diversity of fauna and fauna in the forest, and with amazing views of Partschins and its surrounding mountains. /  Aschbach Cableway mountain station  3.600 m  214m  214 m

MARTINSWEG The circular Hike on the Martinsweg Trail is an easily accessible, newly laid circular route named after the small Church of St. Martin, which is located close to the Eggerhöfe farmsteads. The starting point is the public car park at Gasthaus Eggerhof. The Martinsweg trail is signposted (first on path no. 9 then path no. 27) and initially leads slightly uphill to a viewing point and past the inn back to the car park. /  Gasthaus Eggerhof Marling 

60 Hiking trails

1 hour 30 minutes 

1 hour  4.800 m  205  206 m

Hiking Trails 61

PARTSCHINS WATERFALL FROM THE TEXELBAHN CABLEWAY MOUNTAIN STATION From the mountain station of the Texelbahn cableway, follow trail 2B and 8 in the direction Rammwald farm (1305 m). From there, the way leads beyond the 8B to the Fletscher farm (1300 m) and further, past the Gasthof Wasserfall mountain inn (with a spectacular view point), and from there to the famous Partschins waterfall with a cascade of 97 m height (at 1060 m a.s.l.).

The way back leads along route 8B past the Birkenwald inn and then along No. 1 to the Amesauer farm and from the Winklerhof snack station down to the valley station of the Texelbahn cableway. It is also possible to take bus No. 265 from the cascade back to Partschins (saving approx. 40 minutes). ⇐ Texelbahn cableway Valley Station ⇒Partschins Waterfall 2 hours 20 minutes   5.600 m  874 m

FROM PARTSCHINS TO THE SONNENBERG MOUNTAIN PANORAMIC TRAIL NATURNS EASY HIKING TOURS

SONNENBERGER HÖHENWEG/SONNENBERG HIGH MOUNTAIN TRAIL From the Texelbahn Cableway Valley Station, take Route No. 1 to the Winklerhof mountain Inn at 642 m, above Parcines/ Partschins. Following the Route No. 39 towards Gruberhof, at the second crossroad on the Sonnenberg Route No. 26 the track leads to the Durster mountain bistro, at 1057 m. At the first intersection, turn left on Route No. 8A down to the Schönleiterhof Farm at 841 m and from there Route No. 2 leads to the Amesauer Inn at 769 m, flowing into Route No. 1 to the Winklerhof mountain bistro and then back to the Texelbahn Cableway Valley Station. /  Texelbahn cableway Valley Station  5.500 m   439 m   442 m

The way leads from the centre of Partschins to the Winklerhof snack bar. From there, continue westwards along the Panoramic Trail No. 91 to Naturns. The path runs almost level, and reveals itself as a true panoramic route. It rises briefly from the village where you can visit the famous ancient church of St. Proculus and its museum. Bus No. 266 and No. 251 as well as the Vinschgau Valley Railway lead back to Rabland/Partschins. ⇐⇒Partschins Naturns

2 hours 20 minutes  7.700 m 233 m 353 m

1 hour 30 minutes 

PARTSCHINS WATERFALL TRAIL AT THE TEXELBAHN CABLEWAY VALLEY STATION From the valley station of the Texelbahn cableway, take route No. 1 to the Winkler snack station and then continue on to Salten. There the trail crosses the paved waterfall road and follows path No. 1 to the Birkenwald inn (950 m a.s.l.). Again, the path crosses trail No. 23 running upwards through a deciduous forest to the impressive Partschins waterfall with its 97 m cascade (at 1060 m a.s.l.). At the Gasthof Wasserfall inn, a small path leads up to the viewing platform. Return along the same route or take bus 265 (saving about 40 minutes).  Texelbahn cableway Valley Station Cascata di Parcines  2 hours 10 minutes  5.800 m   484 m   485 m

62 Hiking trails

Hiking Trails 63

DISCOVER THE NÖRDERBERG MOUNTAIN AT PARTSCHINS From the Tel bridge parking lot (508 m a.s.l.), the trail begins along the Via Claudia Augusta Adige Cycle Route leading up to the Adige Dam in Tel, and from there to the entrance of the Marling irrigation channel path, the so-called Waalweg. After half an hour of walking this charming route crosses trail No. 9 (a paved road that leads up to the Marling High Mountain Trail).

From there, the way continues towards Marling- Tscherms, through a dense forest, past the Buchlechner farm, and on for another 20 minutes to the trail leading to the small hamlet of Quadrat. The sign-posted road 35A leads hikers along this pleasant 30- minute leisure hike, which ends at the Brünnl mountain inn at 880m a.s.l. To return to the car park at the starting point, follow a short piece of the paved road to the Quadrathöfe hamlet. There begins trail No. 29, which leads back down to the Tel bridge parking lot. ⇐/ Töll bridge parking lott Naturns  557 m   558 m

2 hours 45 minutes  8.200 m 

DISCOVER THE “PARTSCHINSER NÖRDERBERG” From the parking place Töll-bridge (508m) you follow the cycling route Via Claudia Augusta to the hydroelectric plant in Töll to the starting point of the hiking path "Marlinger Waalweg". We follow the Marlinger Waalweg, after half an hour we follow the hiking path n° 9 until we arrive at the "Marlinger Höhenweg". From there we follow direction Marling/Tscherms. We pass the farm „Buchlechner-Hof“ and after 20 minutes of walk we arrive at the hiking path direction Quadrat. From there we follow for about 30 minutes the hiking path n° 35A until we arrive at Gasthaus Brünnl (880m). For the way back we follow the street to the farms "Quadrathöfe", from there we take the hiking trail n° 29 back to Tel parkin place. ⇐/ Parking place Tel-bridge   400 m  400 m

2 hours 45 minutes  8.900 m 

MEDIUM HIKING TOURS

PARTSCHINS HIGH PATH – CIRCULAR HIKING TRAIL The hiking begins in the center of Partschins. Follow the trail No. 7A to the restaurant Graswegerkeller. From there continue on the trail No. 7 direction Niederhaushof. Here starts the Partschinser High Path with the trail No. 23.

This trail is a narrow footpath, sure-footedness and a good head for heights are required. The Partschinser High Path leads you to the famous waterfall of Partschins and the restaurant Wasserfall, passing the Eggerhof farm and the restaurant Prünster. In front of the restaurant Wasserfall you can find the bus stop of the bus line 265 waterfall/Wasserfall - Partschins. Down the valley you follow the trail No. 8B, passing the restaurant Birkenwald, and then following the path No. 1 direction Winklerhof and Partschins. ⇐/Partschins

3 hours 20 minutes   8.400 m  583 m  579 m

PARTSCHINS – SAXNERWEG ROUTE – VELLAU From the Partschins Centre (at the bus turning point) pass Gaudenz Villa (complete with its own distillery, with owner Christine Schönweger holding weekly tastings) and then continue on Route No. 10B on the Töllgraben.

From there head towards Saxnerweg on Route No. 26A up to the mountain village of Vellau at 906 m. The tar road leads to the church at Vellau and from there continue on Route No. 26, leading along the Kieneggerweg and the Saxnerweg trails and back to Partschins. ⇐/Partschins 

3 hours  10.100 m  532 m  532 m

ASCHBACH – NATURNSER ALM MOUNTAIN PASTURE – VIGILJOCH Take the Aschbach cable car from Rabland to the idyllic village of Aschbach hamlet at 1,362 m. From the mountain station, take Route No. 28, then change to Route No. 27 (Goldbrunnen-Siebenbrunnen) on the right, up to the Naturnser Alm mountain pasture, at 1,922 m. Take the slight incline up Route No. 9A and then Route No. 9, until Route No. 30 up to Vigiljoch at 1,790m.

The return trip is on Route No. 28 to the Aschbach cable car mountain station. ⇐/Aschbach cableway mountain station 

64 Hiking trails

4 hours 12.900 m711 m 711 m

Hiking Trails 65

ORENKNOTT (2258 M) The trek to the Orenknott begins at the scenic Texelbahn cableway mountain station. The trail up Route No. 2 leads to the Mutzspitz Summit.

After a while, Route No. 25A branches off to the left, leading up to the weather station on the Orenknott summit. On the way down on Route No. 25, you pass the Ornalm Alpine Pastures. Hikers take Route No. 24 back to the Texelbahn Cableway mountain station. ⇐/Texelbahn cable car mountain station  830 m  830 m

3 hours 30 minutes  7.200 m 

ZIELTAL VALLEY HIKING FROM HUT TO HUT Take the Texelbahn cable car up the Giggelberg to 1,536m then follow Route No. 24, along the Merano High Mountain Trail to the Nasereit Refuge at 1,523m. Route No. 8 leads to the Gingglalm pasture then up to the Zielalm mountain pasture (2,196 m) and finally to the Lodnerhütte mountain hut at 2,260 m. The hut is open in summer and serviced, allowing visitors to stop over-night. The descent is back along the same route. The Lodnerhütte mountain hut ist starting point for hiking tours to the imposing three thousand metre plus peaks: Lodner 3228m 3,5 Std. Roteck 3337m 3,5 Std. - Hohe Weiße 3279m 4 Std. - Tschigat 2998m 3 Std. - Zielspitze 3001m 3 Std. ⇐/Texelbahn cable car mountain station  7.300 m  1.062 m  1.062 m

HIKING IN THE TEXELGRUPPE NATURE PARK

5 hours 30 minutes 

MERANO HIGH MOUNTAIN TRAIL: WESTWARDS – TO THE GORGE OF 1,000 STEPS TO KATHARINABERG, IN SCHNALSTAL The hike starts at the Texelbahn cableway mountain station, constantly leading westwards on Route No. 24. The trail passes through ravines and gorges, some with stairs and stone steps. The traditional mountain farms found along the way provide hikers with the opportunity for some rest and refreshment. From Linthof, the route runs into Schnalstal, to the village of Katharinaberg at 1245 m.  Texelbahn cable car mountain station  Katharinaberg 6 hours   14.600 m   676 m  973 m

MERANO HIGH MOUNTAIN TRAIL: EASTWARDS – FROM HOHE WIEGE UP TO THE HOCHGANGHAUS MOUNTAIN HUT Starting at the Texelbahn cableway Mountain Station (1544 m), to the east on the Merano high mountain take Route No.24 in the direction of the Nasereit mountain Hut and then to the Tablander Alm mountain pasture at 1788 m. Continue towards Hohe Weide at 1,809 m and then to the Hochganghaus hut, at 1839 m. From here there’s the steep descent down Route No. 7 and 7A to Partschins at 642 m. Texelbahn cable car mountain station  Partschins  13.700 m  795 m   1709 m

66 Hiking trails

5 hours 

Hiking Trails 67

Cable Car Schnalstal Kurzras, 2011 m - 3212 m - www.schnalstal.it Phone 0039 0473 662171

Orbit Lazaun Kurzras, 2010 m - 2430 m – www.schnalstal.it Phone 0039 0473 662171

Cable Car St. Martin Latsch, 630 m – 1740 m – www.bergbahnen-latsch.com Phone 0039 0473 623109

Chairlift Tarscher Alm Latsch, 1180 m – 1940 m – www.bergbahnen-latsch.com Phone 0039 0473 623109

Cable Car Vigiljoch Lana, 295 m – 1500 m – www.vigilio.com Phone 0039 0473 561333

Cable Car Sulden am Ortler

Cable cars

Sulden, 1900 m – 3250 m – www.seilbahnensulden.it Phone 0039 0473 613047

Cable Car Meran 2000 Meran, 650 m – 1905 m – www.meran2000.com Phone 0039 0473 234821

Cable Car Texelbahn Partschins, 633 m– 1544 m - www.texelbahn.com Phone 0039 0473 968 295

Orbit Falzeben Meran 2000 Hafling, 1621 m – 1905 m – www.meran2000.com Phone 0039 0473 234821

Cable Car Aschbach Partschins, 525 m – 1342 m – www.aschbach.it Phone 0039 0473 697 198

Cable Car Unterstell

Cable Car Hirzer Saltaus, 490 m – 1980 m – www.hirzer.info Phone 0039 0473 645498

Naturns, 545 m – 1300 m – www.unterstell.it

Chairlift Algund-Vellau

Phone 0039 0473 668 418

Algund, 350 m – 950 m Phone 0039 0473 448532

Cable Car Hochmuth Dorf Tirol, 650 m – 1400 m – www.seilbahn-hochmucht.it Phone 0039 0473 923 480

68 Hiking trails

Basket lift Vellau - Leiteralm Vellau, 950 m – 1522 m Phone 0039 0473 448532

Hiking Trails 69

Fun & Action Abseiling at Partschins Waterfall - The lightness of being The ultimate thrill at the height of summer with guaranteed cool-down!

The tour, leading through several lengths of rope at approx. 100 metres altitude down along the roaring water near the Partschins waterfall, is a highly unique climbing experience. Application until the day before at the Tourist Offices in Partschins and Rabland.

Alpin Bob (alpin rollercoaster) Phone 0039 0473 234 821 – www.meran2000.com The toboggan trail runs for 1,1 kilometers down the mountain and brings directly back to the starting point.

Archery 3D „Moarhof“ in Schnalstal, Phone 0039 333 4959213

Beach volley Rabland Saringstraße 31 near the biotope Rabland, application necessary Phone 0039 346 6070641

Bowling Sports Centre Partschins, Zielstraße 5, Phone 0039 0473 491881

Climbing garden “Burgstallknott” and “Huafwond”, Partschins Sporty challenges, adrenaline rush and slow-paced activities

Sport and leisure

70 Sport and leisure

The Burgstallknott gneiss wall gym in the village of Vertigen near Partschins is also suited to beginners. The wall can also be accessed from the top, allowing practically risk-free solo climbing. More experienced climbers might try the Huafwond rock gym on the Sonnenberg mountain near Partschins or the more challenging Hoachwool rock gym in Naturns.

The Huafwond climbing wall overlooking the Dolomites may be reached using the Texelbahn Cable Car. The south facing wall has a 30 single pitch with a difficulty level of between 2+ and 7b+.

Sport and leisure 71

Climbing hall

Swimming pool

- Rockarena, Meran, Phone 0039 0473 234619 – www.rockarena.it - Sportarena, St. Leonhard /Passeiertall Valley, Phone 0039 0473 656226- www.sportarena.it - Climbing hall Martell, Phone 0039 0473 744677

Outdoor swimming pool Partschins, Zehentstraße The best place for a swim or relaxing sunbathe the solar-heated outdoor pool in Parcines.

- Naturno´s swimming pool complex, outdoor pool and indoor pool, Feldweg 5, Phone 0039 0473 668036 - Therme Meran, is open 365 days a year, includes 25 pools indoors and outdoors, various saunas, a 52,000 m² spa park, the Spa & Vital area, Medical Spa, Fitness Center and Bistro. www.thermemerano.it Phone 0039 0473 252000

High ropes course “Ötzi Rope Park” Vernagt in Schnalstal. Balancing on beams, ropes, and swings you have to move from one platform to the next. For some people it is already an effort to do this in the ground, but here you do this at a height of 2 to 18 metres.

Adventure thrill and countryside, all at once! Phone 0039 335 5853007

Horse riding school - Riding stable Sulfner, Hafling, Phone 0039 339 5030381, www.reiten-in-hafling.com - Riding stable Paur, Hafling, Phone 0039 348 7653739, www.reiterhofpaur.com - Riding stable Vill, Schlanders, Phone 0039 0473 730314

Fitness-Center Terme Meran, Phone 0039 0473 252 021 – www.thermemerano.it

Rafting - Acquaterra, Phone 0039 0473 720042 – Phone 0039 340 0994746 – www.acquaterra.it - Adventure Südtirol, Rabland, Phone 0039 346 6070641 – www.adventure-suedtirol.com

Tennis - Hotel Weiss, Vinschgauerstraße 38, Rabland, Phone 0039 0473 967067 – www.hotelweiss.it - Sports Centre, Zielstraße 5, Partschins, Phone 0039 0473 491881 – www.spottipartschins.it

Golf - Golfclub Lana, Lana, Phone 0039 0473 564696 – www.golfclublana.it 9 Holes, par 70 - Golfclub Passeier Valley, St. Leonhard, Phone 0039 0473 641488 – www.golfclubpasseier.com 18 Holes, Par 71 - Golfclub Eppan, Eppan, Phone 0039 0471 1660056 – www.golfandcountry.it 9 Holes, Par 70

Minigolf - Hotel Weiss, Vinschgauerstraße 38, Rabland, Phone 0039 0473 967067 www.hotelweiss.it - Minigolf Treff Algund, Marktstraße, Phone 0039 339 5012931 - Minigolf Naturns, Bahnhofstraße 67, Phone 0039 340 1591553

Paragliding “Texelflieger” pilot in Partschins, Marco Vian, Phone 0039 335 8280880

Quad, Minibuggy, Canyoning Südtirol Rafting Expedtions, Phone 0039 349 4178393 – www.suedtirolrafting.com

72 Sport and leisure

Sport and leisure 73

Climbing Area The Burgstallknott Climbing Area A very nice, smaller climbing area. Suitable for beginners, more expert climbers and those who like to climb alone!

Climbers can reach the rock face from above and can start climbing on their own in complete safety. Just take a look at the fantastic views all around you! You can see as far as Partschins, the Meraner Land area and the peaks of the South Tyrol Dolomites, too.

Direction: facing south Best Season: any time of the year but better to avoid really warm summer days when the rocks get too hot to handle.

Rocks: rough-faced stone – most routes start steeply upwards to continue in a vertical direction Height of wall: 15 – 20 mt.

Grade of difficulty: 3a – 7a+ Roped lengths: 1 roped length Of special note: Climbers can rope themselves to the face and there are abseiling possibilities How to reach the area: Parcines – towards Vertigen – turn left at the Fasserkreuz and follow the sign posts.

“Huafwond” Panorama Climbing Area An absolute highlight for experienced climbers, a beautifully laid-out climbing area on Monte Sole at Parcines with more than 100 sq. mt. of panorama terraces, grill facilities, benches and tables and fantastic views of the Dolomite peaks and the Merano area. More than 30 climbing routes, from grade II to IX in difficulty, and a number of rope-ways – some over 30 mt. long.

How to get to the Climbing Area: Simply take the Texel Panorama Cable-Car in Parcines up to the mountain station then walk 7 min. along the “Dursterhof” path to the rock-face turning off after a 5 min. walk to the right in a westerly direction. by car to the „Dursterhof“ farm, then a 30 min. walk to the rock face, following the Giggelberg path then turning uphill after 25 min. towards the west.

Via ferrata “Hoachwool” The Hoachwool via ferrata offers exciting tours on the rocks for experienced climbers with views of Juval Castle. The challenging and varied topology crossings, the steep cliffs and the old Kandln (originally laid in 1833 as a water pipe) make this via ferrata unique.

Degree of difficulty: D/E Walking times: ca. 3 hours and 30 minutes

Via ferrata “Knott” The via ferrata “Knott” you found directly near the lookout point Unterstell. This practice via ferrata at the Unterstell Cableway mountain station is also family-friendly.

Grade of difficulty: A-D

74 Sport and leisure

Sport and leisure 75

Cycle tracks in Partschins CYCLING ADIGE ROUTE- VIA CLAUDIA AUGUSTA Partschins is well connected to the cycle track network. In the valley through the apple orchards near Partschins, Rabland and Töll, the cycle trails lead to Meran and Bozen. The Etschradweg cycle track along the Via Claudia Augusta, extends from the Reschenpass mountain pass in Vinschgau Valley near the Swiss border at one end to Ostiglia just south of Verona on the other. The Etschradweg cycle track runs in both directions.

Distance: Rabland-Mals 60 km Distance: Mals-Reschen 20 km Distance: Rabland-Bozen 35 km

CYCLING TOUR- STAGE RABLAND-MERANSAN LEONARDO PASSEIER VALLEY The family tour into the original Val Passiria begins in Rablà on the famous cycling route Via Claudia Augusta. It continues along the Val d’Adige Cycle Trail to Tel, where we follow the cycle track to Merano. The cycling route to Val Passiria begins in the Sissi Park in the centre of Merano. We follow it though many picturesque villages to San Leonardo in Passiria. The return journey follows the same route to the train and bus station of Merano.

BIKEMOBIL CARD

Discovering Partschins on a E-Bike, mountain bike and racing bike

Cycling and MTB 76 Cycling and MTB

With a BikeMobil Card an easy alternative is riding from Partschins to the Reschenpass by train, returning on a rental bike along a slightly downhill gradient. The Merano and Rablà shuttle services carry bicycles to a local railway station of choice.

Cycling and MTB 77

Stuanbruch-Trail (difficult) Entry of the Mohlboch-Trail is in Mohlboch, turn left on the road to restaurant Brünnl, beginning of the cart path 29, decent on the road to Quadrat - Töll.

 Restaurant Seespitz Töll

 10,9 km  100 m

 1.215 m

THE CYCLIST´S SNACK The area around Partschins, is attracting growing numbers of MTN enthusiasts. So it was inevitable that some local restaurants and mountain taverns would come up with ways to cater to their needs. The idea of a "Cyclist’s Snack" was born, which include hot and cold dishes, made exclusively with local, seasonal ingredients. Based on the "Cyclist’s Snack”, mouth-watering light meals made from freshly picked local ingredients. These snacks were especially created with the cyclist in mind, providing the right amount of energy for replenishment before continuing on their ride. Meals are served from 12.00 – 4.00pm at the participating restaurants and mountain inns.

A small maintenance service is available with cycle tools such as air pumps, replacement tubes, electric bike recharge stations and theft-proof racks.

There is also an info service with maps of the local terrain, shuttle timetables, various other schedules and recommended itineraries.

Mountain Biking in Partschins

- Restaurant Pizzeria Thedl, Töll/Partschins - Restaurant Brünnl, Quadrat/Partschins - Inn Unterobereben, Quadrat/Partschins

LA MONTAGNA TRAMONTATA CON QUADRAT E SAN VIGILIO

Rental mountainbike

Find more tours on maps.partschins.com

- Etzi´s Bikeshop, Rabland, Phone 0039 0473 967697 (also E-Bike)

 Tour Start  Tour End  Length  Uphill height variation  Downhill height variation

- Südtirol Rad, near the train station in Vinschgau Valley: Meran, Naturns, Latsch, Schlanders, Spondinig and Mals, www.suedtirol-rad.com - Ötzi Bike Academy, Naturns, Phone 0039 347 1300926

Family Tour (easy) Cableway to Aschbach, Infopoint turn left forest path 27A to Mahlbach, Mohlboch-Trail, turn left road direction Quadrat, pass the restaurant Brünnl and Niederhof and follow the road to Töll. From there you take the cycling route Via Claudia Augusta to Rabland.

 / Aschbach cablecar

 16,5 km  137 m

 968 m

Uphill Seespitz Mountain (medium) After the start of the trail there follows a 2.8 km long steep climb (16%), then leading past various farms to the Seespitz inn (1,750m). The entire route consists of a steep climb. For the first 8km the road is paved, after which the route follows the forestry road leading up to the Seespitz mountain inn.

 Töll  Restaurant Seespitz  13,8 km  1.424 m  185 m

78 Cycling and MTB

Cycling and MTB 79

Hiking with children in Partschins Walking with the kids along the spacious Waalwege trails and the wide hiking trails around the village is nothing but a pleasure. On a hike on the Walderlebnispfad Aschbach trail from the Aschbach Cable Car mountain station, one can make out interesting details in the surrounding landscape.

Family walks in the vicinity of Partschins include the Sagenweg trail of legends, the Peter Mitterhoferweg trail, the family hiking trail on Nörderberg mountain, the Bad Egart circuit, the Apfelgärten-Runde apple orchard circuit and the Vertigner Kastanienweg chestnut trail. With the exception only few trails, all of the above are accessible to children’s strollers.

Hits for kids

80 Hits for kids

Walking time  Length Tour Start  Tour End  Uphill height variation  Downhill height variation

Hits for kids 81

FOREST ADVENTURE TRAIL ASCHBACH This easy family hiking round trip starts at the Aschbach cableway mountain station, continuing on Route No. 27A towards the Eggerhöfe Farms. After walking approx. 5 minutes, take the turn-off to the Aschbach Forest Adventure Trail. The Adventure Trail is a scenic route of approx. 3.6 km, with illustrated information panels and interactive stations along the way, showing the great diversity of fauna and fauna in the forest, and with amazing views of Partschins and its surrounding mountains. / Aschbach cablecar  214 m  214 m

1 hours 30 minutes 3,6 km

FAMILY TRAIL NÖRDERBERG From the Restaurant Brünnl approx. 200 m along the asphalted street to the signpost "Familien-Wanderweg". After a few minutes of walk you cross the hiking trail 35A to the next signpost "Familien-Wanderweg" and you turn back on the trail to the Restaurant Brünnl. / Restaurant Brünnl

1 hour 2 km  136 m  136 m

VERTIGNER CHESTNUT ROUND TRIP Head north along Hubenstraße road from the Partschins Church Square.

Continue on the Vertigen Road to Route No. 10B to Hotel Niedermair. Then turn left, following the signs to the Graswegerkeller Tavern and continue on Route. No. 7A back to the Hubenstraße road and back to the starting point in Partschins Church Square.

ROUND TRIP THROUGH THE APPLE ORCHARDS From Kirchplatz Square in Partschins, take a left turn on the Sonnenberg through the magnificent apple orchards up to the suspension bridge and to the Winkler mountain Inn. Take Route No. 91A towards the sports center and then along the sidewalk in the direction of Rabland into a small field path to the left and to Hans Guet Road. Turn left again and return back to Partschins on Route No. 1 (changes to 7A).

 /  Partschins

2 hours

 4,2 km

/ Piazza Chiesa Parcines

2 ore 2,7 km  116 m  116 m

RENTAL KIDS BACKPACKS: Schuhwaren Pircher, Partschins – Phone 0039 0473 967050

 120 m  120 m

ROUND TRIP “BAD EGART” Starting at the Aschbach Cableway valley station near the Rabland Railway Station, the route takes a left turn towards Rabland, continuing on the tar road until reaching the forest road towards Töll. Passing the K. u. K. (Imperial and Royal) Bad Egart Museum, you reach Tel Bridge crossing the Adige River. Once across, turn left on to the Adige Cycle Trail on the ancient Via Claudia Augusta and then back to the starting point.

 /  Saring bridge in Rabland  45 m  45 m

82 Hits for kids

1 hours 30 minutes

 3,9 km

Hits for kids 83

Carte vantaggi Advantage cards Thecomprehensiveandeco-friendlypublictransportsysteminsouth tyrol/südtirolincludestrainandbusservicesaswellasacableway system enabling visitors to arrive at their destination of choice.

Thetrainschedulesareupdatedonaseasonalbasisandareavailableat thetpuristoffices,railwaystations,thesadbusstationinfoofficesor online at www.Suedtirolmobil.info.

BUSCARD MERAN AND ENVIRONS The BusCard Merano and surroundings permits you to reach Merano and the villages in the near environs. The BusCard is valid for 7 days.

BIKEMOBILCARD With the bikemobil Card you receive a ticket for the public transport (bus and train in all South Tyrol) system and a full-day bicycle rental. It is not allowed to carry the bike on public means of transport.

MUSEUMOBIL CARD The museumobil Card combines two offerings, the South Tyrol-wide travel card and admission to more than 90 museums in South Tyrol.

TRANSPORTATION OF ANIMALS

MOBILCARD The card enables the owner the use of all public means of transportation belonging to the South Tyrol Integrated Transport Network: • Regional trains (not Eurostar/Intercity) in South Tyrol (Brenner – Trient, Mals – Innichen • All town and extra-urban bus services • The cable cars to Ritten, Meransen, Jenesien, Mölten, Vöran and Kohlern • The narrow-track railway on the Ritten Mountain and the cable railway up to the Mendel Mountain • One return journey using the Swiss Post Bus from Mals to Müstair

Guide dogs and small dogs, which can be held in your arms or carried in a container with the dimensions of max. 70×30×50 cm, are transported for free. If your four-legged friend does not fulfil these criteria, it has to be kept on a lead and must not take any seats. Furthermore your dog has to wear a muzzle. Before starting the journey, you have to buy a ticket for yourself and your dog which have to be validated in the bus. The transport of dogs with single fare ticket, Mobilcard is only valid in the area covered by the South Tyrol Integrated Transportation (until Trento, Brenner and Innichen).

Don’t forget the EU pet passport! Please inform yourself about the valid regulations before you start the journey.

All prices and tickets you found on our homepage

84 Public transport

Public transport 85

B

BANCHE E BANCOMAT Raiffeisenkasse Partschins, Spauregg Str. 12, Phone 0039 0473 967133 Branch Rabland, Vinschgauerstraße 23, Phone 0039 0473 967183

C

CINEMA Filmclub Meran (Ariston Gallerie), Bozen, Schlanders, www.filmclub.it Cineplexx Bozen, Schlachthofstraße 53/A, Phone 0039 0471 054550, www.cineplexx.bz.it UCI in Twenty, Bozen, Galileo Galilei Straße 20, Phone 0039 892 960

D

DENTISt Dr. Schubert Ingmar, Rabland, Geroldstraße 8, Phone 0039 0473 965 060 Dental Emergency Service, Hospital Meran „Franz Tappeiner“, Rossinistraße 5

Info & Service

Information from A - Z 86 Info

DOCTOR Doctor Blaas, Rabland, Geroldstraße 4, Phone 0039 0473 967 420 (appointment only with reservation) Doctor Platzer, Partschins, Spauregg Straße 1, Phone 0039 0473 968 257 (appointment only with reservation)

E

H

EMERGENCY NUMBER (THE CALL IS FREE OF CHARGE) 112 HOSPITAL AND FIRST-AID Hospital “Franz Tappeiner” in Meran, Rossinistraße 5, Phone 0039 0473 263 333

Info 87

M

MARKET Monday: Kastelbell, Bozen, Terlan, Eppan/St. Pauls Tuesday: Bozen, MeraMn(Praderplatz), Prad am Stilfser Joch, Eppan, Neumarkt Wednesday: Meran/Sinich, Mals, Kaltern, Ritten, Auer Thursday: Schlanders, Bozen, Eppan, Kastelruth Friday: Meran (Prader Platz), Latsch, Lana Saturday: Naturns, Bozen MOTOR MECHANIC Holzknecht Kurt, Töll, Johann-Kravogl-Straße 19, Phone 0039 0473 967 698 Marchegger Franco, Naturns, Stein 19, Phone 0039 0473 667 386

P

PARKING PLACE Partschins, parking place “Mairhof” (bus stop) – with parking meter 1 hour Partschins, underground car park (bus stop) – with parking meter 8 hours Partschins, Zehentstraße Partschins, Church square – with parking meter 1 hour Partschins, parking place cemetery Rabland, Lahnstraße Rabland, parking place opposite of the tourist information – with parking meter 8 hours Rabland, tourist information – with parking meter 30 minutes Rabland, railway station – to pay Töll, railway station Töll, Hydro-Electricity Station PHARMACY Pharmacy Gerold, Rabland, Geroldplatz 1, Phone 0039 0473 967 737

T

TAXI AND SHUTTLE SERVICE Niedermair Shuttle 0039 345 1748230 Noldi´s Shuttle 0039 339 8757405 Richards Shuttle 0039 338 7928309 Shuttle Gerstl 0039 335 265566 Shuttle Taxi Helmut 0039 338 9631628

W

88 Info

TRAFFIC NEWS On the 24 h info point near the tourist information Traffic news Bozen, Phone 0039 0471 200 198 www.provincia.bz.it/traffico

WEATHER FORECAST On the 24 h info point near the tourist information Traffic news Bozen, Phone 0039 0471 200 198 www.provincia.bz.it/traffico WIFI INTERNET POINT Library Partschins, Hubenstraße 2, Phone 0039 0473 967137 Library Rabland, Geroldstraße 4

Info 89

SIEMR Aperitif for the Partschins-way of life The refreshing drink based on blueberry, apple and mint is served pure, as a ProSiemr (with Prosecco) or Sport-Siemr (with mineral water) exclusively in the Partschins restaurants and inns. The product name refers to the „7“ below the Partschins Mountain top “Zielspitz”, which is visible every year after snowing. Developed by the School of Tourism and Biotechnology Marie Curie Meran (FOS).

NEW: Siemr 250ml to take away and in the giftbox.

Cheers!

90 Informazioni utili dalla A alla Z

The Tourist office Partschins, Rabland and Tรถll is ready to answer your questions and provide you a wealth of useful advice.

Opening times

Tourist-office Partschins Spaureggstraร e, 10 . I-39020 Partschins Tel. +39 0473 967157 . Fax +39 0473 967798 www.partschins.com . info@partschins.com