General description
From the first days of spring until late autumn, the Waalwege– paths that run along old irrigation channels – offer magnificent views of the mountains and the Adige Valley, as well as fascinating glimpses into South Tyrol’s diverse cultural landscape. These ancient trails, once built for irrigation, are among the most atmospheric walks in the region. They wind gently through vineyards, apple orchards, and chestnut groves along the lower mountain slopes.
Originally, the narrow paths were created for practical purposes. The irrigation channels, known as Waale, were constructed in pre-industrial times to supply water to fields and meadows. For many kilometres, the water was guided through small canals, while the Waalweg alongside them served the Waalermeister, who maintained the flow and the structures.
From Lana, two of these historic Waalwege are easy to reach: the Brandis Waalweg and the Marling Waalweg, both offering a perfect blend of nature, history, and scenic beauty.
Route description
The Brandis-Waalweg takes a left from the Gampenstraße Road in Oberlana and leads via the monastery Kloster Lanegg and St. Margareth's Church to the waterfall in the Brandis Canyon in Niederlana. The path runs through orchards, vineyards and chestnut groves and offers beautiful views of the Tschögglberg Mountain, Lana and the Meran Valley Basin.
Circular walk: From the Brandis promenade in Niederlana, immediately after the wooden bridge to the waterfall (near the Waalrast restaurant), a new circular walk begins to the right of the path. The path leads us uphill (towards Völlan) to the big crucifix. Beautiful panoramic view of the Adige Valley. To return, take route no. 1 (Lana-Völlan) and descend towards Niederlana until you reach the Brandis promenade (above the fruit tree museum). Duration: approx. 30 min.
Difference in altitude: approx. 200 m
Description to arrive at destination
From Merano direction Lana to the centre of Lana
Parking
Several parking possibilities in Lana
Public transport
Bus line 211 (Lana-Meran), Bus line 214 (Lana-Völlan), Bus line 215 (Citybus Lana), line 218 Lanabus, Bus line 245 (Meran-Lana-Ulten), Bus line 246 (Meran-Lana-Gampenpass)You can find current timetables at: www.suedtirolmobil.info
Equipment
None, also suitable with boarding or low hiking boots. Orientation without problems, as a rule also possible without map.