Winter hiking: South Tyrol in its whitest splendour

In South Tyrol, snowshoeing developed as a means of transport. Over time, however, it became a trendy sport activity. In the past, mountain farmers used to attach oval, hardwood-framed rawhide lacings to their soles, which allowed them to flotate through the snow-coated terrain without sinking. It was not long before winter sports enthusiasts discovered this technique and turned snowshoeing in South Tyrol into a trend. Today, it is outdoor fans that put on their modern snowshoes and set out to explore South Tyrol’s winter wonderland. And who can blame them? The exercise, paired with the crystal-clear mountain air and the breathtaking landscape, makes for an electrifying experience that benefits the body, the mind and the soul. You can wear your snowshoes and explore South Tyrol’s winter world directly from the doorstep of our Hotel Pinei, or you can drive to the nearby towns of Castelrotto/Kastelruth or Ortisei/St. Ulrich (a 10 minute drive) and start your tour there. There are ways (and paths) galore to explore the majestic Dolomites, with their snowy pastures and forests.

Winter hiking in South Tyrol is no less charming and just as popular as snowshoeing. There is a cobweb of paths − for both beginners and experienced winter hikers − that spreads through the snow-white landscapes of Val Gardena/Grödnertal and the Sciliar/Schlerngebiet area. Your winter holiday at our hotel in Castelrotto/Kastelruth is a great opportunity to set foot onto this magic snowscape and collect unique memories. Wrapped up warmly, you can trudge with your family through the snow or enjoy some winter romance wandering hand in hand with your partner, surrounded by a glittering landscape. Winter hiking in South Tyrol gives you so much, and yet it requires so little: good shoes and warm clothes – this is all you need to explore the winter wonderland around the Passo Pinei/Panider Sattel. Do not be fooled by the solid white: there is always something new to discover and experience!

What do a ski tour and snowshoeing in South Tyrol have in common? One thing: an impressive ascent through pristine, uniquely beautiful snowscapes. However, while silence is the highlight of snowshoeing, the unique charm of ski touring lies in the descents through tracks covered in powder snow. After the challenging ascent there is nothing better than bolting downhill and enjoy the adrenalin kick.
Snow is guaranteed, but please bear in mind that caution is always recommended while on holiday in the Dolomites. It is important that you check the avalanche report before each tour and only venture on a tour with good, safe weather conditions.