Even as a little girl, our blogger Sabine was captivated by the Dolomites. But the Geisler group will probably remain one of her absolute favourites: these pale giants are a true highlight of the Villnöss Valley! With great stories waiting to be told…

Goosebumps guaranteed!
The Geisler group, a mountain paradise
The Geisler group, also known as the “Gruppo delle Odle”, forms a mountain ridge between the Villnöss Valley to the north and the Gröden Valley to the south. The Ladin word “odles” means “needles”, a perfect description of the soaring spires of this mountain massif. Since 2009 the Geisler group has been a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site and, since 1978, part of the Puez-Geisler Nature Park. The main peak, the 3025-metre “Sass Rigais”, marks the highest point of the group.

Pssst – I can tell you the way into our (mountain) paradise…
Nothing beats the feeling of being airily free, relaxed and enchanted. And it doesn’t take much to get straight into this mood – if you are holidaying near the Geisler range! So, if you want to get close to these mountain peaks and enjoy the breathtaking scenery, the famous Adolf Munkel Trail is an absolute must. Path no. 35 starts at Zans and leads past the hut known as the “Gschnagenhardtalm” then up to the Geisler Alm. Take path no. 36 to the Dussler Alm and finally return to your starting point at Zans. The route, which is not especially long, offers wonderful close-up views of the Geisler peaks and is definitely one of the most impressive Dolomite trails that South Tyrol has to offer!



Goosebumps and glowing memories...
…of a very special kind – all guaranteed as the day slowly draws to a close. From near the Geisler range at dusk you can see the impressive natural spectacle of the Dolomites glowing in the sunset: the peaks shine with a beautiful light that is sure to produce goosebumps!
Incidentally, the Nature Park is also valuable for its headwaters, giving the diverse flora of the area a magnificent and colourful appearance.

 

Tips and myths, courtesy of the locals…
Before embarking on any adventure, I would remind you of an old peasant saying about the clouds on the Geisler, namely: “Should a hat the Geisler wear, weather’s set fair: but should a sword the Geisler bear, then beware.” Now there’s nothing to stop you... except perhaps the legendary figure of Gana! ;-) Her story relates that, once upon a time, a shepherd from outside the area was driven from the pastures at the foot of the Geisler range and into the Wasserrinnen Valley. But there he found nothing but screes and nowhere for his animals to live. Soon the shepherd encountered Gana, a mythical figure of the Ladin people, whose special powers caused a spring to gush forth water, turning everything fertile and green. The shepherd built himself a hut up there and was helped in every way by Gana. When he married a farmer’s daughter, however, Gana scared her away and cursed the pastures. Since then the heaps of stones up there have spread ever further.

To find the perfect starting point for tours (and maybe even a chance meeting with Gana ;-)), check out this link. There are great places to stay with our private landlords in the Dolomites of South Tyrol – all just waiting for you!

Yours from the heart, Sabine