From Brixen to Meran
… or vice versa: A popular multi-day hut-to-hut tour through the Sarntal Alps
Four days on tour? That sounds like a full-blown mountain adventure! Just make sure your hiking boots are well broken in; otherwise, those unforgettable moments might turn into painfully unforgettable ones. But hey, what could go wrong with so much "awesome" and "beautiful"? Onwards to new peaks! More precisely: to the Villanderer Berg, the Königsanger, and the ominous "Sam" (no, not a mountain troll, even if it sounds like one), the infernal trio of peaks for a selfie against a breathtaking Dolomite backdrop. The view is absolutely incredible! You'll see the Zillertal Alps with their star, the Grossglockner, the Dolomites to the east and south, and from the west, Ortler, Königsspitze, and Presanella, with the Vinzentiner Alps and Lake Garda Mountains in between.
Mountain huts like the mysterious Stöffl Hut are along the way – the perfect place to reward yourself with Kaiserschmarrn and refuel. There's so much to discover! You'll also find beautiful mountain lakes along the route, reflecting not only the peaks but also the hikers trying to cool their tired feet. A highlight: a small mountain church!
Itinerary:
First, start from Brixen, where there are several parking options, up to Pfeffersberg and from there continue to Lake Radlsee. You can bag the summit of Radlseenock (2,391 m) right away. Continue over the Königsanger and Kühberg below the Lorenzen- and Kassianspitze as well as the Jocherer – all of which can be summited if desired – until you reach the Stöffl Hut. This is the best place to spend your first night.
The next day, Totenrücken forms the first landmark before you reach the Villanderer Berg via the Zwölfernock (2,434 m), which is located almost exactly in the center of South Tyrol. Via the Sarner Scharte, you descend to Astfeld in the Sarntal valley. You'll spend your second night there.
On the morning of the third day, the ascent begins again, heading up to Sam (2,137 m), then continuing along the plateau below the Großer and Kleiner Mittager and the Windspitz until it descends. Then on to Pfiffinger Köpfl, from where you can also take the cable car. From there, you continue to Meran.
For those who like to swim against the current: Yes, you can also do the whole thing in reverse.
Important details:
Total Length: 58.4 km
Total Elevation Gain: 3,950 m