Hiking in the Dolomites in South Tyrol, Italy
Hotel Tyrol in Villnösstal Valley, the ideal hiking destination
The hiking trails wind their way over 450 km across the Dolomites, through pastures and expansive valleys and right up to the white summits. The possibilities for mountain trekking are almost infinite and all of them are just one step away from Hotel Tyrol in Funes/Villnöss. These include walks to the famous Three Peaks or Langkofel mountains and high mountain trails running along the edge of the forest, connecting one mountain hut to another. There are the old smuggling routes to explore, while more advanced mountaineers will take to the via ferrata at higher altitudes. The Adolf-Munkel-Weg Trail that runs beneath the imposing north face of the Geisler Mountains is particularly awe-inspiring.
The Dolomites: a UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site
A stone’s throw away from the Hotel Tyrol in Villnösstal Valley
Originating about 200 million years ago, at a time when half of Europe was submerged under the ancient ocean of Tethys, the Dolomites were named after the Frenchman, Déodat de Dolomieu. The geologist, who pioneered the study of the rock predominant in the region, namely the double carbonate of calcium and magnesium concluded that it took some 15 million years for this impressive mountain terrain to be created. Indeed, it is this particular type of rock that creates the phenomenon of the Enrosadira, when the mountains change colour, turning from pink to purple at sunrise and sunset.
The geological and botanical diversity of the Dolomites, with its rolling pastures and towering rock faces creates a mesmerising effect. The rocky massifs, such as the Three Peaks of Lavaredo and Sellastock Mountain, attract mountaineers from all over the world. In 2009, the Dolomites were declared a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Summer in the Dolomites in South Tyrol, Italy
Summer at the Hotel Tyrol, in Villnösstal Valley In Villnösstal Valley, a pair of good hiking boots is what is needed for exploring the Dolomites. The wide range of options range from simple hiking trails linking one pasture to another, to challenging roc
In Villnösstal Valley, a pair of good hiking boots is what is needed for exploring the Dolomites. The wide range of options range from simple hiking trails linking one pasture to another, to challenging rock climbs. There are about 50 routes of varying difficulty levels ranging from 3 to 8a starting from the Adolf-Munkel-Weg Trail at the Zanser Alm climbing crag.
The Funes/Villnöss High Rope Course at the foot of the Geisler Mountains offers unique family recreation. The high-rope bridges and beams stretching between trees are a test of one’s courage, and are accompanied by the necessary safety precautions!
Mountain bikers can explore the natural diversity of the Dolomites with countless possibilities. Besides the gentle and family-friendly forest trails, there are challenging bike tracks above the tree line, requiring considerable technical skill and experience.
Winter in the Dolomites in South Tyrol, Italy
Winter at the Hotel Tyrol Villnösstal Valley
Away from the hustle and bustle of the big ski circuits, the Villnösstal Valley lies in an intact and tranquil landscape, in the magnificent Trentino-South Tyrol Dolomites. With roughly 20 km of cross-country ski trails, winter hiking trails and toboggan runs winter sports enthusiasts have different ways of exploring nature while enjoying themselves. With numerous sports and outdoor leisure activities specifically designed for families, this pristine natural landscape off the beaten track is ready to be explored. Located in the center of S. Maddalena/St. Magdalena, the small “Filler” ski area is easily accessible and suitable for both families and beginners. More advanced skiers can head for nearby ski areas such as the famous Plose or in Val Gardena Valley. Both destinations are well served by public transport with rides lasting about half an hour either way.
The Puez-Geisler Nature Park – A special Chapter in the History of our Planet
A holiday at the Hotel Tyrol, in a natural park in the Villnösstal Valley
Taking its name from the most important summits in the area, the Puez-Geisler Nature Park lies in a protected area of 10,000 hectares in the North-western Dolomites. The Villnösstal Valley is situated at the western border of the park and its fertile pastures; dense pine forests, jagged peaks and expansive plateaus form an extraordinarily diverse landscape in winter. Within the park, there are several types of sedimentary rock formations, tectonic fault lines and erosive phenomena that render the South Tyrolean Dolomites a true geological haven. The main info point in the Nature Park is in Santa Maddalena/St. Magdalena: just a few minutes walk from the Hotel Tyrol.
