South Tyrolean winter holiday without skiing?
Snow fun goes far beyond the slopes
Around Reschensee lake, the choice is endless. The alternatives to skiing are both bountiful and tempting. Some 60 kilometres of groomed winter hiking trails invite you to explore and discover the magic of winter. Snowshoe hikers and ski tourers alike find their dream routes at every turn.
From gentle trips through the Matscher or Langtauferer valleys to high-alpine summit tours on the Äußerer Nockenkopf or Seebodenspitze. Enjoy breathtaking panoramas where the untouched winter idyll crowns your outdoor day.
Ice adventures are just as close. When the lakes Reschensee and Haidersee freeze, young and old take to the sparkling-smooth surface. The natural ice rink on Haidersee lake delights skaters, who can even hire skates at the lake and skate spontaneously.
For those craving more speed, snowkiting is another option: With a board on their feet and a kite catching the wind, the brave can experience the thrill of flying high at the kite spot in Graun or at Haidersee lake. Those who prefer to stay grounded in windy conditions can cross the icy surface with their sailing yacht.
Feel Snow & Ice
Winter hikes
Winter hiking around Reschensee lake means: Enjoying 60 kilometres of groomed natural trails beneath the gentle winter sun. Step through silent forests, across sparkling white meadows, or towards a hearty treat in a rustic alpine hut. Favourite tours include the hike to the Schliniger Alm or circuits around the lakes Reschensee and Haidersee.
Snowshoe hiking
Marked paths, snowy tracks and high-alpine routes await. Snowshoe fun here ranges from leisurely tours to managed huts through to challenging summit goals in the Matscher or Langtauferer valley. And the mountain panoramas stretch even further. Want to get started right away? Snowshoes are available for hire - and guided tours with mountain pros too!
Ski tours
Ski tourers are spoilt with pristine slopes, firn snow and magnificent views. From the relaxed ascent to the Äußere Nockenkopf, the sporty climb to the Grionkopf or a sunny tour to the Großer Schafkopf - there’s an option for every fitness and skill level. The exclusive highlight at Watles: the dedicated ascent and descent route for ski tourers off-piste. Pick up tips from the experts or book your tour directly.
Ice skating & ice sailing
Vast frozen expanses and stunning backdrops create a paradise for skaters and ice sailors alike. Skating and ice sailing on the lakes Haidersee and Reschensee offer winter highlights galore. With a 40-centimetre-thick ice sheet and the strong Vinschgau winds, the lakes are a hotspot for passionate ice sailors. Even speed skaters love to put themselves to the test here. No skates with you, but eager to start? Equipment rentals are available in St. Valentin and in Reschen.
Snowkiting
Fly across the frozen lakes Reschensee and Haidersee. Where action meets the feeling of freedom. In the tripoint region, snowkiting is a superlative winter sport. First build up speed on the ice, then let the wind in your kite lift you off the ground. The constant thermals south of the Alpine main ridge make conditions here perfect for snowkiters. No wonder the kite spots in Graun and by the fishing huts at Haidersee lake are distinct favourites by enthusiasts.
Want to learn snowkiting, or take your skills from confident rider to true pro? Get in touch with the snowkite schools at Reschensee lake:
Ice bathing
Take your body awareness to a whole new icy level. It takes a strong mind to swap comfort for this ultra-cold adventure lasting two to three minutes. Feeling healthy and familiar with the preparatory breathing techniques? Then seize the days before lakes Reschensee and Haidersee freeze over completely. Dive in and experience this invigorating, icy thrill.