Crossing the Alps E5: Oberstdorf – Merano

Seize the afternoon for a stroll through Oberstdorf or already scent the alpine air at the Nebelhorn to get you in the right mood.

Through the marvellous Allgäu Alps along on an impressive trail through the Sperrbachtobel ravine steadily ascending to the hut Kemptner Hütte.

At the pass crossing Mädelejoch you cross the border into Austria, where a descent with great views awaits down into the Lechtal-valley. Via a spectacular chain bridge you reach Holzgau and there get to marvel at the colourful painted houses on the village square.

Along remote alp roads you hike deep into the dairly alps area situated in the heart of the Lechtal Alps. The route takes you to the pass crossing at the hut Leutkircher Hütte, where you enjoy a break in the quaint mountaineers‘ base.

Then you descend to the famous winter sports destination of St. Anton.

A short train ride to Landeck and then by cable car to an altitude of 2,000m. The ridgeway across the Venet is breathtaking, 360° panorama onto snow-capped mountains and jagged peaks.

You climb two summits and then take a rest at the alp surrounded by cow bells. A stunning meadow- and forest path takes you to Wenns in the Pitztal-valley.

After a bus ride you hike along the panorama path steadily ascending to the hut Braunschweiger Hütte. After a break there you proceed to the highest point of the holiday, the Pitztaler Jöchl on an altitude of just under 3000 metres. A nice hiking path leads you through the Rettenbach further downhill, until you master the final metres in altitude into the Ötztal-valley by bus or cable car.

Alternatively to the alpine route you can explore the Pitzenklamm-ravine along the Luis Trenker-trail, along the river Inn into the area prone to rock falls Sautner Forchet. Via the idyllic Lake Piburger See and the spectacular bridge Wallner Brücke along the roaring river Ötztaler Ache into the valley.

Along the old smugglers‘ trails via the Timmelsjoch to Italy. Stunning paths lead you through the sunny Timmelstal-valley to the pass on an altitude of 2500 metres.

A marvellous descent through the impressive alpine scenery and flower meadows, surrounded by steep, towering rockfaces. Steadily headed for the valley you hike across the upper Passeiertal-valley and enjoy South Tyrolean hospitality over a well-earned dinner.

Along the footsteps of the freedom fighter Andreas Hofer you ascend to the alp Pfandleralm. Along forest trails to the Riffel, where a breathtaking high-altitude path starts: panoramic views as far as the eye can see. After a break at the hut Hirzerhütte you descend by cable car towards the valley and take the bus to Merano.