More Than Skiing in Val Senales

A 5-day program in and around Karthaus/Certosa

 

The snow sparkles in the sun and encircles the town of Karthaus like a crown. Put your suitcase down and let the holidays begin! There’s so much to do and explore.

We put together some ideas for outdoor activities surrounding Karthaus, if you’re looking for more than skiing.

 

1. Winter Hiking

To the woods! When you step out of the Goldene Rose Karthaus, left of the town church there is a small path that leads to Sachsalbhof, an old Val Senales farmhouse. The hike is rewarded with a stunning view over the Val Senales peaks. Please note that on Sachsalbhof there is no guesthouse service.

Another option is a short 2-hour hike from Maso Corto/Kurzras over Lagauntal to guesthouse Bergl Alm.  

 

2. A Valley Jewel - The Juval Castle

Driving by, you can’t miss the Juval Castle, one of the six Messner Mountain Museums. Located on a hill at the mouth of the Val Senales valley, the view up to the castle reminds one of a bird’s nest perched at the top of a cliff. Shrouded in a veil of mystery, century after century the medieval castle stands tall, in an area known for its rich and long-standing history. The museum and the Tibetan collection are closed in winter, however, the castle courts as well as the organic produce store at the foot of the hill are certainly well worth a visit.  

 

3. The sun on Katharinaberg and Karthaus from above

Small and dreamy, Katharinaberg lies on a high rock and offers a view directly to Karthaus and even further out of the Schnals valley over the Etsch Valley. A real panorama village! Almost the whole day the sun shines on the houses and gardens and therefore vitamin D can also be filled up there in winter. Where the parish church stands today, the Schnals Castle once stood. Now the church bells from the former castle tower ring out and tell of settlements and stories that point deep into the beginnings of mankind. In addition, from Katharinaberg you can directly access the Meraner Höhenweg for winter hiking.

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4. If You Fancy Some Water…

Our Karthauser Bad is a one-of-a-kind natural spa experience. But if you crave for proper swimming pools or want to enjoy natural thermal baths, Merano is the place. The Merano Thermal Park with its 15 indoor and 10 outdoor pools is an extraordinary aquatic experience. The thermal water comes directly from Vigiljoch/Monte San Vigilio and is collected in two large thermal pools, from which the smaller pools are filled with warm and cold water as well as saltwater. There are diverse amenities to match your specific needs, plenty of playgrounds for active children or quiet zones for those looking to relax and switch off.

 

5. The Ötzi Glacier Tour

He is one of the oldest ‘celebrities’ that put Val Senales on the map - Ötzi, the legendary iceman from Hauslabjoch. Ötzi is a testament to the Copper Age, a discovery that provided us with valuable insight onthe early life of man. The Ötzi Glacier Tour goes along the Main Alpine Ridge and takes a demanding 7-8 hours’ hike to reach the spot where Ötzi was found. The tour dives deep into life on the glacier and will provide the visitor with informative facts on its flora and fauna.