Maiser Waalweg Obermais
A serene 8.5 km irrigation channel path through South Tyrol's orchards and vineyards, offering shade and scenic beauty year-round.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Blossoms in full bloom
Maiser Waalweg Obermais
Best Time
Blossoms in full bloom
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene 8.5 km irrigation channel path through South Tyrol's orchards and vineyards, offering shade and scenic beauty year-round.
"Lovely shaded trail between Saltaus and Merano, worth doing to enjoy views of valley below."
Start at Töll Brücke
This offers a more downhill walk, making it easier and more enjoyable. :athletic_shoe:
Pack light for strollers
Some sections are narrow; consider a carrier for very young children. :baby_bottle:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Water Channel
Along the entire 8.5 km path
Follow the gentle flow of the irrigation canal, a constant companion through diverse landscapes.
Blossoming Apple Orchards
Mid-section of the trail
Experience a breathtaking spectacle of white and pink blossoms in spring, a true natural wonder.
Autumnal Hues
Throughout the trail
Witness the vibrant transformation of leaves in fall, offering a cozy and colorful hiking experience.
Ofenbaur Bistro
Near Obermais
A perfect stop for refreshments and a well-deserved break with lovely views.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Trail Etiquette & Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Start at Töll Brücke
This offers a more downhill walk, making it easier and more enjoyable. :athletic_shoe:
Pack light for strollers
Some sections are narrow; consider a carrier for very young children. :baby_bottle:
Enjoy local refreshments
Stop at Buschenschänke for wine or the Ofenbaur Bistro for a coffee break. :coffee:
Embrace the shade
The trail is mostly shaded, perfect for warmer days. :sunwithface:
Tips
from all over the internet
Start at Töll Brücke
This offers a more downhill walk, making it easier and more enjoyable. :athletic_shoe:
Pack light for strollers
Some sections are narrow; consider a carrier for very young children. :baby_bottle:
Enjoy local refreshments
Stop at Buschenschänke for wine or the Ofenbaur Bistro for a coffee break. :coffee:
Embrace the shade
The trail is mostly shaded, perfect for warmer days. :sunwithface:
Check for construction
Detours can happen; be flexible and enjoy unexpected discoveries. :construction_worker:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Maiser Waalweg for its beautiful, shaded path through orchards and vineyards, offering a relaxing experience. While some note the lack of amenities and narrow sections, the natural beauty and seasonal charm, especially during blossom or autumn, make it a highly recommended walk.
"Lovely shaded trail between Saltaus and Merano. Very narrow in spots (unsuitable for baby strollers), very few benches, and no restrooms. This is not as developed as other trails. Still, worth doing to enjoy views of valley below."
Merry “Merrycyclist”
"A very beautiful trail! I recommend starting at Töll Brücke, because the walk then continues downhill. Along the way, you'll find delicious refreshments at the Buschenschänke (wine taverns), as well as honey and fruit, depending on the season."
Wolfgang Lynen
"Our absolute favorite irrigation canal path takes us to Saltusio, taking bus line 240. From there, we descend to the Passiria River right next to the Hirzer cable car station. From this point, the path is very well signposted, and you can follow the irrigation canal path all the way to the center of Merano. Unfortunately, construction work thwarted our plans, so we had to detour halfway and follow the path along the Passiria River. This turned out to be a good thing, though, because we discovered a picnic area set up there for cyclists and hikers. Since we don't normally use this path, it was all the more enjoyable.
Honestly, it's extremely relaxing to walk along the Passiria River and listen to the soothing sound of the water. Cyclists and pedestrians can easily avoid each other, and this path also takes you directly to Merano. Nevertheless, we hope to follow the irrigation canal path again next time."
Albert Debrunner
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can access the Maiser Waalweg from various points. A popular starting point is Saltaus in the Passeier Valley, reachable by bus line 240. Alternatively, you can start from Obermais, a district of Meran. Some visitors recommend starting at Töll Brücke for a more downhill experience.,
Yes, public transport is quite convenient. Bus line 240 can take you to Saltaus, a common starting point. From Meran, you can also access parts of the trail.,
While you can drive to access points like Saltaus or Obermais, parking availability can vary. Many visitors opt for public transport to avoid parking hassles and enjoy the scenery from the start.
Many recommend starting at Töll Brücke as it leads to a more downhill walk towards Meran, which is generally easier. Others prefer starting in Saltaus and walking towards Obermais.
While parts of the trail are shared with cyclists, it's primarily a walking path. Some sections are narrow, and it's best to be mindful of other users.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Maiser Waalweg is a public hiking trail and does not require any entrance tickets. You can access it freely.
The Maiser Waalweg is accessible year-round, 24 hours a day. However, it's best to hike during daylight hours for safety and enjoyment.
There is no admission fee to walk the Maiser Waalweg. It's a free public trail for everyone to enjoy.
Yes, the trail is open at all times. However, hiking during daylight hours is recommended for the best experience and safety.
No booking requirements are necessary for the Maiser Waalweg itself. It's a natural trail open to all visitors.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The Maiser Waalweg is generally considered an easy to moderate hike. It's mostly flat with gentle inclines, making it suitable for most fitness levels.,
The Maiser Waalweg is approximately 8.5 km long. Walking time can vary, but it typically takes around 2 to 3 hours to complete the full trail, depending on your pace and stops.,
Unfortunately, there are very few amenities directly on the Maiser Waalweg. Restrooms are scarce, and there are limited benches. It's advisable to use facilities before you start and carry essentials.
Some sections of the Maiser Waalweg are quite narrow, making it challenging for strollers, especially during busy periods. A baby carrier might be a better option for families with very young children.,
You'll walk alongside an irrigation channel, passing through shady forests, apple orchards, and vineyards. The views of the valley below are also quite lovely.,
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are a few delightful spots. The Ofenbaur Bistro is a popular stop for refreshments and snacks. You might also find seasonal refreshments at local Buschenschänke (wine taverns) depending on the season.,
While direct restaurants on the trail are limited, you can find dining options in Obermais and Meran at either end of the path. The Ofenbaur Bistro is a notable stop along the way.,
The Ofenbaur Bistro offers refreshments, coffee, and likely some snacks. It's a great place to relax and refuel during your walk.
While not explicitly mentioned as designated picnic areas, some visitors have found pleasant spots, including a picnic area discovered along the Passiria River during a detour.
Depending on the season, you might find local produce like honey and fruit available for purchase at refreshment stops along the way.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the vibrant apple blossoms in spring, the colorful autumn leaves, the serene water channel, and panoramic views of the valley. The Ofenbaur Bistro also offers charming photo moments.,
Absolutely! The changing seasons offer diverse landscapes, from blooming orchards to fiery autumn foliage, all framed by the gentle water channel and valley vistas.,
Early morning or late afternoon light can create beautiful, soft lighting for your photos, especially when capturing the blossoms or autumn colors.,
While not marked viewpoints, the trail offers continuous scenic beauty. Keep an eye out for clearings in the orchards or elevated spots overlooking the valley for memorable shots.
Yes, the Maiser Waalweg is dog-friendly, and many visitors enjoy capturing moments with their pets against the beautiful South Tyrolean backdrop.,
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The relatively flat terrain makes it manageable for little legs, and the chance to see orchards and potentially wildlife can keep them engaged. Stopping at the Ofenbaur Bistro offers a nice break for snacks and drinks. 🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Hikers
It's a great opportunity to immerse yourself in nature, listen to the soothing sounds of the water, and enjoy the beautiful South Tyrolean landscapes at your own pace. Visiting on weekdays or early mornings can offer a more solitary experience. 🐶 Dog Owners
Remember to keep your dog on a leash where necessary and ensure they have enough water, especially during warmer months. The shaded sections offer some relief from the sun.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of Waalwege
These paths are often characterized by their relatively flat terrain and the presence of shade from surrounding trees, making them ideal for leisurely walks. The Maiser Waalweg, in particular, is known for its length and the diverse scenery it traverses, from dense forests to open orchards and vineyards. It's a testament to how human ingenuity and nature can coexist harmoniously, creating trails that are both functional historically and beautiful today.
Seasonal Splendor: Spring vs. Autumn
As autumn arrives, the Maiser Waalweg dons a different kind of beauty. The leaves on the trees and vines turn into a stunning palette of reds, oranges, and yellows, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. This season is perfect for those who appreciate the cozy ambiance of fall colors and enjoy a more subdued, yet equally captivating, natural display. It's a time for 'Genuss' (enjoyment) and recharging batteries amidst the changing scenery.,
Culinary Delights Along the Path
Beyond the bistro, keep an eye out for traditional Buschenschänke (wine taverns) that might be open seasonally. These rustic establishments offer a taste of local wines and regional specialties, providing an authentic South Tyrolean culinary experience. Some visitors have also noted the availability of local produce like honey and fruit, adding a sweet touch to the trail experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit