Summer around Merano: relaxation, hiking and villages in the heart of South Tyrol

As is now customary, this year again we decided to spend a week in South Tyrol. And for this 2026 we chose for our next vacation the Merano surroundings, an area that in summer lends itself well to a stay made up of short trips between nature, small towns and outdoor experiences.

In fact, the proximity between the Merano basin and the Passeiertal valley makes it easy to alternate between scenic walks, visits to villages, and moments of relaxation, without having to deal with long commutes.

It is precisely this variety of scenery that makes this area one of the most attractive in South Tyrol for those who want a flexible summer vacation, built day by day according to their preferences (and sometimes weather).

Staying between Val Passiria and Merano

At the stage of organizing the vacation, we started from the choice of area, identifying an area that would allow the Combining nature, tranquility and proximity to Merano. After careful research we found this hotel around Merano, lo Zirmerhof, a three-star superior facility located in Rifiano (Riffian), about 15 minutes from the center of Merano. Amenities at the hotel, run by the Ortner family, include a year-round heated infinity pool & whirlpool, yoga and fitness room, relaxation area, and sauna area. The kitchen favors fresh produce and locally sourced ingredients, avoiding the use of industrial products and ready-made meals.

The location of the Zirmerhof is very convenient for combining two different dimensions: on the one hand the quietness of Val Passiria, on the other hand the proximity to the spa town and its attractions. A balance that makes it easy to move between nature and the urban center, always maintaining a relaxed pace.

Villages and localities around Merano

Around Merano there are numerous and easily accessible sightseeing opportunities. The village of Tyrol (Dorf Tirol) is distinguished by its scenic location above the basin, its iconic castle (Schloss Tirol), and its network of trails through traditional vineyards and farms. Scene (Schenna), on the other hand, offers a more open and sunny setting, with walks connecting several hamlets.

On the opposite side of the valley is Lagundo (Algund), ideal for routes along irrigation canals, while higher up Haflinger (Hafling) provides quick access to the Merano 2000 hiking area, with scenic trails and expansive views of the valley.

Experiences and activities between culture and nature

While staying in the surroundings of Merano, it will be possible to participate in various activities that combine nature and local culture. These include the guided hikes along the Via Claudia Augusta, a historical itinerary through the area. Tours are scheduled every Monday until Nov. 2, and the meeting point is at the Tel hydroelectric power plant near Rablà, a hamlet of Parcines.

Then there are the visits to the FORST Brewery (in Foresta, a hamlet of Lagundo), offered every Thursday until the end of October, as well as the City markets and cultural initiatives in the historic center of Merano, which will enliven the area especially in the summer months.

More thematic experiences are also planned, such as guided nature walks, Activities related to outdoor wellness e itineraries that will provide a deeper understanding of the landscape and its transformations.

An area to live with freedom

The surroundings of Merano are undoubtedly an ideal destination for balanced summer stay, in which nature, villages and cities alternate seamlessly. The ability to move easily between the different environments allows each day to be built independently, alternating between activities and breaks.

It is this freedom of choice, combined with the variety of the landscape, that makes the Merano area one of the most complete in South Tyrol for a vacation of discovery and relaxation.