Laives High Trail

The Leiferer Heights Round-Tour typically takes around 3 hours and 53 minutes to complete. This duration can vary based on your pace, stops for photos, and refreshment breaks.

The trail features highly varied terrain, including old farm paths (some paved), thickets, meadows, and mixed forests. You'll encounter steep ascents, demanding descents, and narrow, exposed paths along mountain flanks, particularly near the Seitner red porphyry walls. Some sections are cable-secured, and there's even an almost vertical climb up a rock face. Sure-footedness and good footwear are essential.

You can expect grandiose and continuously improving panoramic views over Bozen (Bolzano) and the Etschtal (Adige Valley), along with prominent mountain ranges like the Mendelkamm, Texelgruppe, and Ötztaler Alpen. Notable features include the unique red porphyry rock formations, a small farm chapel, the historical Haselburg castle, and the Lisnerbach stream. You'll also pass through orchards, vineyards, and forests. Don't miss the Brantenbach Gorge and the stunning View of the Adige Valley.

This trail is generally considered moderate to difficult. Due to steep ascents, exposed sections, and cable-secured paths, it requires sure-footedness and a head for heights. It is not recommended for small children or those with a fear of heights. Beginners should be well-prepared and have a good level of fitness.

The Leiferer Heights Round-Tour is particularly recommended for hiking in spring and autumn. These seasons offer milder temperatures, which are ideal for tackling the varied terrain and enjoying the views comfortably.

Yes, there are numerous mountain farms located along the route that offer opportunities for refreshments and breaks. These include Alpler Farm, Altebner Farm, Rechtebner Farm (which also has a playground), Fritscher, Schluntner Farm, and the Steiner Farms with their chapel.

While specific parking locations aren't detailed, the tour offers flexibility. You can use public transportation for the return journey from locations like St. Jakob or Steinmannwald, which can also serve as starting points or access points to the trail.

While there are no explicit restrictions mentioned, due to the challenging terrain, including steep ascents, exposed paths, and cable-secured sections, it's advisable to assess your dog's agility and comfort with such conditions. Always keep dogs on a leash and ensure they are well-behaved around other hikers and farm animals.

No, there are typically no permits or entrance fees required to hike the Leiferer Heights Round-Tour.

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Leiferer Höhenweg, 5 - Laives => Deutschnofen => Welschnofen => Tiers, Wallfahrtsweg - Via Crucis, and 12, Alta Via di Laives - Leiferer Höhenweg.

Yes, the tour offers options to shorten the hike at various points. Additionally, you can use public transportation for the return journey from locations like St. Jakob or Steinmannwald, making it adaptable for different fitness levels and preferences.