Meraner Land: Passiria Valley

Passiria Valley

The Passiria Valley winds from Merano in a northerly direction and looks back upon a very long history. The valley was already populated during Roman times. This was also due to its strategic position, hence Vipiteno near Austria could be reached via the Giovo Mountain Pass. From the very beginning this valley enjoyed great commercial interest, which has been preserved up to date, thanks also to the warm friendliness and hospitality that the inhabitants offer to visitors.

Parts of the area are Plan, San Martino and San Leonardo and numerous small and beautiful fractions. Immersed at the heart of the Tessa Group Natural Park and the Venosta Alps (Ötztal), but also rather close to the renowned health cure centre Merano, these villages provide the ideal destination for regenerating and unforgettable holidays.

The opportunities to practice sports are varied during both winter and summer. You can choose between enjoyable walks, outings with a bicycle or on horseback, go skiing, rafting or paragliding or try other sports. Due to the beautiful Passiria-Merano Golf Club, which is renowned for its excellent conditions on a national and international level, golf is particularly popular in this region.

Numerous are also the various sites and cultural attractions in this area. First of all we recommend the Passiria Museum Andreas Hofer, which is located in San Leonardo in Passiria and is dedicated to the life and actions of the Tyrolean hero, who dominated the war of freedom in 1809 against the Franco-Bavarian dominants.

Also notable are the ruins of Giovo Castle located on a small hill just above San Martino. The castle dates back to the 12th Century. It was built upon the orders of the Sirs of Passiria and the castle still provides a beautiful panoramic view over the valley.

We further recommend the Adventure Mines (at 2,355 m) and the Monteneve Hut, ideal places for revaluing an excursion to the mountains with a cultural and fascinating option. The “Stieber” Waterfalls and the “Stulles” Waterfalls and numerous beautiful large and small churches can be found in this area.