We start our autumn hiking tour just above the church of S. Pietro/Laion. In a sharp right-hand bend we turn into trail no. 9, which will finally lead us to the Ramitzler Schwaige mountain hut. From there we continue on the trail no. 35 and enter in the wood, time and time again enjoying great views to the Val d'Iscarco and the Val Gardena, Mount Sciliar and the Alpe di Siusi, Mount Sassopiatto and Mount Sassolungo. After two very pleasant hours of hiking we finally reach the homely Ramitzler Schwaige mountain hut (1,815 m a.s.l.). After tasting a typical apple strudel those of us who are keen on peak climbing continue their hike until Rasciesa di Fuori, while the rest of us stays at the Ramitzler Schwaige mountain hut, enjoying its great panoramic view.

On our way to the peak of Rasciesa di Fuori we continue our hike on trail no. 35, which leads us out of the wood and transforms itself from a broad forest road into a stone track with some steep sections. After enjoying the great panoramic views at the "Ochsenritt" and the "Hexentisch" we continue our hike towards the charming chapel of Rasciesa (Heiligkreuzkirchlein) on 2,200 m a.s.l.

There are only few hundred metres left until we reach the peak and its large wooden cross. In case of good weather the 360°-degree view from the peak of Rasciesa di Fuori (2,284 m a.s.l.) is really breathtaking: we can see the Zillertaler Alps, the Odle mountains, the Sella mountain range, Mount Marmolata, Mount Sassolungo, Mount Sassopiatto, Mount Schlern and the Alpe di Siusi. Going back to S. Pietro/Laion, we take the same trail route. The Ramitzler Schwaige mountain hut is open from July to the middle of September and very recommendable for families and those of you who have a dog. Hiking passionates should continue their tour until the peak of Rasciesa di Fuori: the great panoramic sight is worth all the effort!

Author: BS