Walking tip in the Upper Vinschgau
Leitenwaal and Berkwaal near Schluderns
Near Schluderns two Waale run along the sunny side of the valley: the Leitenwaal and the Berkwaal. The circuit links them with the Ganglegg archaeological site and Churburg castle, staying in the forest and on paths along the slope. We allow three to four hours, about 290 metres of ascent and the grade easy.
A Waal is an old irrigation channel; the path beside it follows the slope through forest and meadows. That makes the circuit a pleasure walk that also suits spring and autumn.
At a glance
- Distance
- 7.8 km
- Ascent
- 290 m
- Descent
- 290 m
- Walking time
- 3 to 4 hours
- Difficulty
- easy
- Highest point
- 1,213 m
- Start
- Vuseum in Schluderns (end point: Schluderns station)
- Trail numbers
- 18, 17, 20
- Refreshments
- inns in Schluderns
- Dog
- on a lead; keep the dog short at the narrow spots along the Waal
- Children
- described as family-friendly; some narrow spots along the Waal, small children by the hand
- Season
- spring to autumn; the Waal carries water from April
easy
Start in Google Maps (opens in a new window) Download GPX file
Elevation profile
Route sketch
Map
Route description
The circuit starts at the Vuseum in Schluderns. There you follow trail no. 18 uphill to the Ganglegg archaeological site. The walk continues on trail no. 17, the Leitenwaal, above the site, up to an impressive gorge where the Saldurbach comes down from the Matsch valley.
On the opposite side of the valley the Berkwaal leads back down to Schluderns, past Churburg castle. The walk ends at Schluderns station. The GPX file shows an approximation of the circuit up to the Vuseum; on the ground the waymarks apply. The signposting names further numbers, for example no. 20.
The altitude runs from about 920 m in Schluderns to the highest point at 1,213 m (figure of the Ferienregion).
What you see on the way
According to South Tyrol Marketing, the Ganglegg is the best-researched and best-fortified Bronze and Iron Age hilltop settlement in the Alps. You see remains of the settlement with rebuilt dwellings from different periods.
The Vuseum in Schluderns has a permanent exhibition on the history of the Waal paths and on plants and animals, and a model Waal with a Waaler’s hut, a Waal bell and information panels, plus finds from the Ganglegg and an insight into the Venosten culture. Churburg, one of the best-preserved castles in South Tyrol with its famous armoury, lies on the way back; visiting it is a destination in its own right.
Practical notes and safety
On the Waal path there are some narrow spots that, according to South Tyrol Marketing, are somewhat dangerous. Walk slowly there, check weather and path conditions beforehand, and avoid the walk in wet weather, snow and ice. Sturdy shoes are needed.
You reach Schluderns from our house with line 277 to Mals and from there with the Vinschgau railway or Citybus 274. With the Reschensee Guest Pass, bus and train in South Tyrol are included during your stay; timetables are on suedtirolmobil.info.
To shorten the circuit, leave out the Ganglegg and walk from Churburg to the Leitenwaal, Berkwaal and Griggwaal; South Tyrol Marketing names this shorter variant. Ask the Vuseum and the castle directly about their opening times.
Frequently asked questions
- How long is the circuit?
- We allow three to four hours. Depending on the source the length is between 6.8 and 7.8 km, the ascent about 290 to 340 metres.
- Is the walk suitable for children and dogs?
- It is described as family-friendly. At the narrow spots along the Waal take children by the hand and keep dogs on a short lead.
- How do I get to Schluderns?
- By line 277 to Mals, then by the Vinschgau railway or Citybus 274. With the Reschensee Guest Pass this is included in your stay.
- When does the Waal carry water?
- According to the Ferienregion from April. The path is pleasant to walk in spring and autumn.
- Where can I stop for refreshments?
- In the inns of Schluderns. The sources name no refreshment stop along the way; take something to eat with you.
Related excursions
More hiking tips
- The legend trail from Burgeis to Marienberg Abbey
- From Marienberg to Mals along the Oberwaal
- From Glurns to the Tartscher Bühel
Your stay
Rooms & suites Summer at the Watles Winter at the Watles Enquire about a stay
Further pages
Ferienregion Vinschgau: Leiten- and Berkwaal walkSüdtirolerland: walk along the Waale of SchludernsSüdtirol Mobil: timetables