It is a circular route that leads through the most important valleys that flow into the Merano basin (Vinschgau valley, Passeiertal valley, Etschtal valley) and into the villages around Merano.
First the ascent from Merano to Marling and to the Marlinger Höhenweg takes place. Then the route follows a charming path to Töll. From there a pleasant path leads along the edge of the forest to Naturns. A panoramic path takes you to Partschins and Gratsch, where you drive up to Dorf Tirol. Then you descend into the valley of Passeier, where you reach St. Leonhard on a beautiful cycle path via Saltaus and St. Martin.
Continue in the direction of Meran and over several steep and sloping passages you will reach the village of Schenna. From there, the route leads first through the Naiftal and then up to Fragsburg castle. Several ascending and descending sections lead to the village of Burgstall, and from there through the Etschtal valley to Gargazon, Vilpian and Terlan. From Terlan, it continues to Andrian and from there to Nals. A steep and charming forest path leads to Tisens, and the so-called “Filzkunstwanderweg” (felt art trail) leads to the village of Vöran.
Then you follow the “Chestnut Experience Trail” and descend to Lana. Through seemingly endless apple meadows you finally return to Merano.
The length of the route is 160 km, the difference in altitude is 5,500 m.
The route runs 40% along forest roads, 30% along walking paths and 30% along cycle paths or asphalted side roads. 99% of the route can be covered by bicycle.
The following bicycle types are recommended: Front mountain bikes or light full mountain bikes with sufficient tires (also Plus or Fat). Gravel bikes are not recommended.
Since there is no time measurement, the “MeranoTrail” also allows e-bikes. For those participants who only have one day available, a shorter alternative route has been developed with the Merano Castle Circuit. This is a 50 km long route with an altitude difference of 1,500 m, which runs around the Merano basin. The route includes twelve castles and beautiful panoramic views of Merano and the surrounding mountains. Fully drivable by bike and ideal for e-bikers, this route is more on asphalt than gravel roads, with no special technical requirements for the participants.