Gitschberg Jochtal – Two mountains, one world of adventure
Discover the treasures of the Alps – nature, culture and enjoyment combined
About Gitschberg Jochtal
The 🏔️ Gitschberg Jochtal is a real gem in South Tyrol's Alpine world – a combination of two mountain regions that together form a paradise for active holidaymakers, families and connoisseurs. Located between the charming villages of Meransen, Vals, Mühlbach and Rodeneck, the region offers 360° views of over 500 mountain peaks – from the Dolomites to the Zillertal Alps.
The region combines authentic South Tyrolean tradition, rural culture and modern infrastructure. Whether on sunny alpine pastures, in rustic huts or at traditional village festivals – here you can experience the true South Tyrolean way of life.
☀️ Summer activities – between alpine pastures and panoramic trails
When the snow melts, the Gitschberg Jochtal valley transforms into a 🥾 hiking and biking paradise with countless trails, viewpoints and huts that invite you to linger.
Popular summer activities & excursion destinations:
- Gitschberg Panorama Platform – at 2,512 m with spectacular 360° panoramic views of the Dolomites, Ortler Group and Großglockner
- Jochtal Alpine Pasture Circuit – family-friendly circular hike past rustic alpine pastures such as the Fane Alm, one of the most beautiful alpine villages in South Tyrol
- E-bike & mountain bike tours – e.g. from Mühlbach via Meransen to the Valler Jöchl, with numerous places to stop for refreshments
- Via ferrata 🧗 ‘Steiner Mandl’ – varied panoramic via ferrata for experienced mountaineers
- Rieserferner-Ahrn Nature Park & Rodenecker Alm – ideal for botanical walks, alpine hikes and nature photography
- Paragliding 🪂 from Gitschberg – experience flying over the Eisack Valley with impressive views
- Adventure trails for families: The South Tyrolean Milk Trail in Vals teaches children about alpine farming and milk production in a playful way
❄️ Winter – skiing fun with a view
In winter, the area transforms into the Gitschberg Jochtal ski resort – a combination that offers perfect conditions for skiers, snowboarders and families.
Winter highlights:
- 55 km of perfectly groomed slopes with modern lifts and guaranteed snow ❄️ until spring
- Family-friendly: ski kindergarten & children's world 🎿 ‘Kinderland Jochtal’ with magic carpets and ski schools
- Gitschberg snow park – fun lines and jumps for snowboarders
- Snowshoeing: popular routes lead from Vals to the Fane Alm or across the Rodenecker Alm
- Cross-country skiing: Around 30 km of trails, including on the Rodenecker-Lüsner Alm ⛷️with magnificent views of the Dolomites
- Night skiing: Floodlit slopes and rustic huts for evening enjoyment
🎨 Culture & customs – South Tyrolean tradition brought to life
The region is not only nature, but also pure culture. Centuries-old churches, lovingly maintained villages and living customs make the Gitschberg Jochtal authentic.
Cultural highlights:
- Parish church of Meransen ⛪ – with frescoes from the 15th century
- BergbauWelt Ridnaun-Schneeberg (mining museum) (day trip) – exciting history of mining in the Alps
- Alpine festivals & farmers' markets – e.g. the Fane Alm Festival in August with music, regional cuisine and handicrafts
- South Tyrolean cattle drive in autumn – colourfully decorated cows and festive parades
- Mühlbacher Klause – medieval fortress and gateway to the Puster Valley
🏨 Accommodation – Sleep with a mountain view
Whether you are seeking a luxurious wellness hotel, a cosy guesthouse or a rustic farm, the region offers accommodation to suit every taste.
Popular types of accommodation:
- Wellness hotels with sauna and infinity pool in Meransen and Vals
- Family hotels with childcare and leisure activities
- Farm holidays – insights into rural life
- Mountain huts & chalets – ideal for hikers and those seeking peace and quiet
🍽️ Cuisine – South Tyrolean culinary delights
Between Gitschberg and Jochtal, down-to-earth mountain cuisine meets modern creativity. Regional products such as alpine cheese, bacon and homemade dumplings characterise the gastronomy.
Recommended huts & restaurants:
- Pichlerhütte (Vals): Hearty alpine meals 🍽️ with homemade cheese and open fire
- Berggasthof Gitschhütte: Panoramic terrace with views of the Dolomites
- Fane Alm: Kaiserschmarrn and fresh buttermilk in the midst of rustic wooden huts
- Panorama Restaurant Jochtal: Alpine gourmet cuisine with regional ingredients
- Sennerei Vals: Guided tour and tasting of regional 🧀 dairy products
✨ Your Gitschberg-Jochtal experience
Whether hiking to the Fane Alm, skiing on sunny slopes or enjoying South Tyrolean specialities in an alpine hut, Gitschberg Jochtal is a place that touches the heart and soul.
Here, nature, culture and hospitality merge to create an unforgettable holiday experience – in every season. 🌞❄️
