Hike along the bank of the Rienz, the Olang reservoir, oases of calm in winter forests, frosty landscapes that glisten with snow crystals, pass hamlet “Salla” and return to the starting point

Starting point: bus stop in the “Bahnhofstraße” in Welsberg 1087 m
Distance: ca. 11 km
Hiking time: ca. 3 ½ - 4 hours
Level of difficulty: easy but long tour
Signposts: watch out for signs of cycling route – across “Salla” number 39

 Coming from Innsbruck/Brennero (A): Drive on the Highway of Brennero (A22) until the exit Bressanone/Val Pusteria, then go on along the SS49-E66 for about 58kms until you arrive in Monguelfo. Coming from Lienz (A): You can reach us also padding by Lienz in Westtyrol (A). You have to cross the Austrian-Italian border between Ahrnbach and Winnebach (B100-E66) and drive on the SS46-E66 until Monguelfo.  

At the bus stop in “Bahnhofstraße” at 1087 m, cross the bridge, following the signs of the cycling route “Radweg” towards Olang. After a short distance and before the railway bridge, turn right into the cycling route. Now stay on this route and walk along the new village bypass, the riding stable, the Puster Valley railway line, the Olang reservoir and through a magnificent winter wonder land. After about 5 km at the end of the reservoir, a road intersects. Keep left and continue on it uphill; on your right there is the elevated cemetery of Oberolang. At the crossroad, turn left and walk in easterly direction, following the signposts number 39 across wide snow-covered meadows and fields and past handsome farms and wonderful woods all the way to the hamlet “Salla” at 1239 m. This place offers a breath-taking panorama and great photo opportunities. After a short break, continue for approximately 2,5 km through peaceful winter woods, before an impressive vista over Welsberg and the opening view of the Gsieser Valley presents a last perfect photo scene. Slowly march downhill and the long but varied hike ends again in Welsberg.