Breathing in fresh mountain air, enjoying the panoramic views of the Tschögglberg between Meran an Bozen in South Tyrol and setting off on foot – that’s what holidays in Hafling, Vöran and the Meran 2000 hiking area are all about. To keep this special landscape as beautiful as it is today, it’s worth following a few simple tips. After all, people who spend time in nature often care about keeping it intact for generations to come.
Avoiding waste: The best rubbish is none at all
In Hafling and Vöran you won’t find public rubbish bins. This isn’t an oversight – it’s a deliberate step to help protect the natural environment. Along the hiking trails, bins are also rare. However, near the lift stations at Meran 2000, you’ll find small recycling stations where you can separate and dispose of small amounts of waste from your backpack. Still, the best approach is to take all your rubbish back with you and dispose of it at home, in your hotel or holiday apartment. This way, the landscape stays free of packaging and plastic waste – and you show care for the place you’re visiting.
Tip: When packing your backpack, plan space for your waste too. A small fabric pouch or resealable box will help you store rubbish securely and cleanly until you can dispose of it properly.
Mountain water to go: Refillable bottle instead of single-use plastic
The water on the Tschögglberg is wonderfully fresh, clear and of excellent quality. Instead of packing single-use bottles, simply fill your reusable bottle with fresh tap water before setting off. This keeps you well hydrated on your hike and helps reduce unnecessary plastic waste.
A smart backpack: What you really need to pack
To make your hiking day in Hafling, Vöran and Meran 2000 both enjoyable and nature-friendly, check your backpack carefully. Here are some useful ideas:
• Unpackaged snacks: Fresh fruit, sandwiches or nuts in a fabric bag – tastier than packaged snacks and better for the environment.
• Reusable bottle: Stainless steel or glass keeps your water fresh and cool for longer.
• Fabric pouch or lunchbox: Perfect for leftover food or any waste produced on the way.
• Pocketknife: Handy for your picnic and saves using disposable cutlery.
• Small container for cigarette butts: If you smoke, please take your cigarette ends with you – they take years to decompose.
We have summarized further tips from mountain professionals
in this article.
Respect the wildlife: Protect animals and nature
While hiking around the Tschögglberg, you’ll often encounter grazing animals. Whether cows, horses, sheep or goats – keep a safe distance and avoid feeding or petting them. This protects both you and the animals.
If your dog joins you on your hike, always keep it on a lead – especially near grazing animals. This helps protect livestock and wildlife and ensures a peaceful atmosphere on the mountain pastures.
Stay on the marked trails and don’t pick any flowers or plants. The colourful alpine blooms belong in the landscape and provide valuable habitats for insects.
Here you can find more tips for
hiking with your dog.
Take a break and enjoy: Mountain huts welcome you
Along the trails, many mountain huts and alpine inns invite you to stop for a break. Here, you can enjoy regional specialities and recharge your energy for the way back. Many places use local products – a delicious and waste-free way to experience the mountains.
Less is more
Whether packing, hiking or pausing along the way – focusing on the essentials makes your day simpler and more respectful of nature. With a little preparation, it’s easy to enjoy the mountain world of Hafling, Vöran and Meran 2000 in its authentic beauty.
In this way, your hike becomes not only an unforgettable experience but also a small contribution to preserving this wonderful landscape.