Salto

Together with the Renon High Plateau and the Monte Regolo, Mt. Monzoccolo is among the most important mountain ranges around Bolzano. Millions of years ago it was a volcanic area. Today, in the south of the Monzoccolo (Tschögglberg), which stretches from Avelengo via the villages of Verano and Meltina at an average altitude of 1,100 and 1,500 metres a.s.l., the Salto is located near San Genesio Atesino. Its highest point is the 1,468 metres high Tschaufenhöhe pass.

This hiking and excursion destination is very popular for its gorgeous wide larch meadows, in autumn a true spectacle of colours. Their needles - the only conifers to do so - turn yellow and orange in late autumn. Then it's time for the San Genesio Schupfen Festival which is held between the small "Schupfen", the alpine huts on the larch meadows. Already in the 13th century, the Salto or Salten was mentioned (Lat. "saltus" = forest), the alpine meadows have always been used for cow and horse grazing. The famous Haflinger horses with the blond mane can be seen here.

The E5 European long distance path - leading from the French Atlantic coast in Brittany over the Alps to Venice - and the yellow route of the Via Alpina proceed across this high plateau, always accompanied by fantastic panoramic views. Moreover, in this cultural landscape the Guggnweg - Tschaufen Theme Trail and the Legends Trail can be found - several stations tell different sagas and are decorated with crafted figures done by local children. A highlight for the young ones!