This scenic circular hike begins in the charming village of Petersberg and leads through gentle meadows, light forests, and to three traditional alpine huts: Schönrast, Schmieder, and Lahner. The route offers a perfect mix of natural beauty, panoramic views of the Dolomites, and welcoming huts serving local South Tyrolean cuisine. In summer, the alpine pastures are in full bloom, adding vibrant color to the landscape. This family-friendly, well-marked trail is ideal for nature lovers, leisure hikers, and anyone seeking peace and authenticity in the mountains.
The hike starts in Petersberg (approx. 1,380 m). From the village center, follow trail [1] uphill through meadows and forest to the Maria Weißenstein pilgrimage site (approx. 1,521 m) – a perfect stop for a short visit or break.
From Maria Weißenstein, continue on the European long-distance trail [E5], passing through beautiful alpine pastures to reach the Schönrast Alm (approx. 1,690 m), with stunning views of the Latemar and Rosengarten. The trail then leads to the Schmieder Alm (approx. 1,720 m), set in a sunny clearing.
Follow the Gorzsteig trail downhill to the Lahner Alm (approx. 1,580 m), where you can enjoy local dishes and mountain views. Return via trail [5], rejoin the [E5], and follow the known route back to Maria Weißenstein and Petersberg.
The full loop covers about 13 km, is of moderate difficulty, and takes approximately 4.5 hours to complete.
By public transport:
- 181 from Bozen | Bolzano
- 181 or 184 from Birchabruck | Ponte Nova, Stenk
- 180 or 184 from Karerpass | Passo Costalunga, Karersee | Lago di Carezza, Welschnofen | Nova Levante
- 184 from Eggen | Ega, Obereggen
- 181 or 184 from Deutschnofen | Nova Ponente, Weissenstein | Pietralba
- 182 from Steinegg | Collepietra, Gummer | San Valentino
- 180 from Val di Fassa
Bus stop: Petersberg, Abzw. Weiss. | Monte San Pietro, bv. Pietr.; online timetable search at: www.suedtirolmobil.info/en/
Meeting point: Petersberg | Monte San Pietro: https://goo.gl/maps/UoVi7fpngnu32N2U9
Getting to the starting point of the tour by public transport is easy and convenient:
By public transport:
- 181 from Bozen | Bolzano
- 181 or 184 from Birchabruck | Ponte Nova, Stenk
- 180 or 184 from Karerpass | Passo Costalunga, Karersee | Lago di Carezza, Welschnofen | Nova Levante
- 184 from Eggen | Ega, Obereggen
- 181 or 184 from Deutschnofen | Nova Ponente, Weissenstein | Pietralba
- 182 from Steinegg | Collepietra, Gummer | San Valentino
- 180 from Val di Fassa
Bus stop: Petersberg, Abzw. Weiss. | Monte San Pietro, bv. Pietr.; online timetable search at: www.suedtirolmobil.info/en/
Meeting point: Petersberg | Monte San Pietro: https://goo.gl/maps/UoVi7fpngnu32N2U9
By car:
Destination: Petersberg | Pietralba
Parking: parking lot opposite the inn Weber directly after the turn-off to Weissenstein | Pietralba
Meeting point: Petersberg | Monte San Pietro: https://goo.gl/maps/UoVi7pngnu32N2U9
