Where Water Speaks – Following Ancient Trails to the Partschins/Parcines Waterfall

This atmospheric hike combines high-level panoramic trails, water-side paths and historic irrigation channels. Constant water sounds, sweeping views and the impressive Partschins/Parcines Waterfall make this route a memorable nature experience.

Tour Start 

Texelbahn cable car mountain station

Tour End

Partschins bus station

Texelbahn mountain station – Merano High Mountain Trail 24 – Nasereit Hut – Alpinsteig Wasserfall – restaurant Wasserfall – Partschins/Parcines waterfall – restaurant Birkenwald – Partschins irrigation channel path – Partschins bus stop

The hike starts at the Texelbahn cable car mountain station. From here, follow the Merano High Mountain Trail 24 towards Nasereit Hut. Just beyond the hut, the view opens into the wild Ziel Valley, where a smaller, upper waterfall of the Partschins watercourse can be seen.

The route then descends along the Zielbach stream, following its natural course until it joins the Alpine hiking trail Waterfall (Alpinsteig Wasserfall). This particularly varied section features crystal-clear pools, small cascades and several scenic resting spots overlooking the Merano area.

The highlight of the hike is the Partschins/Parcines Waterfall, with a drop of 97 metres, the highest waterfall in South Tyrol. Especially during late spring snowmelt, the waterfall displays its full power. The viewpoint next to the restaurant Wasserfall offers an impressive close-up view.

The descent continues on trail 8B/23, passing the waterfall and leading to the restaurant Birkenwald. From there, follow trail 1 downhill to the start of the Partschins irrigation channel path, one of the oldest irrigation systems in the region, still fed by the Zielbach river.

Finally, trail 7A leads comfortably down to the centre of Partschins and the central bus stop, where the hike ends.

To avoid the relatively steep descent via the Fletscher Steps (section from Fletscher farm to restaurant Wasserfall), follow the mountain road from Fletscher farm and take trail 23 to therestaurant Prünster. From there, descend on trail 26 to the restaurant Wasserfall. The route then continues on trail 26, passing the Partschins/Parcines Waterfall, to the restaurant Birkenwald (bus stop, line 265).

The starting points of our hiking tours can be reached comfortably and in an environmentally friendly way by bus and train. With the South Tyrol Guest Pass, all public transport throughout South Tyrol can be used free of charge – no need to search for parking. Tip: timetables and connections are available at www.suedtirolmobil.info.

Parking options in Partschins are limited. In order to protect the local natural area and support sustainable travel, we recommend using public transport. Thank you for helping to protect this area!

Timetable search: https://www.suedtirolmobil.info/en/