SCHNALSTAL - much more than a race destination
Nestled in the impressive mountain landscape of the Ötztal Alps, the Schnalstal Valley is an alpine paradise full of contrasts. From the sunny Vinschgau to the eternal ice of the Schnalstal Glacier. Schnalstal valley stands for a unique blend of unspoiled nature, vibrant culture and authentic South Tyrolean traditions.
Here, history meets the present: the discovery of Ötzi, the Iceman, made the valley world-famous, while centuries-old farmsteads, living traditions and the transhumance continue to shape the region today.
HOME OF ÖTZI - THE ICEMAN
The glacier mummy was discovered in 1991 at the Tisenjoch pass in the Ötztal Alps. At around 5,300 years old, Ötzi offers a rare insight into life in the Neolithic Age. His clothing, equipment and body were exceptionally well preserved by the ice, making him one of the most studied human finds in history.
Today, Ötzi can be visited at the South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology in Bolzano. In Schnalstal itself, the archeoParc Schnals brings the world of the Copper Age to life and allows visitors to experience the history of the valley in an accessible and interactive way.
For the Schnalstal Alpine Trail, this heritage adds a special dimension: runners are not only moving through mountain terrain, but through a landscape connected to thousands of years of human history.
TRANSHUMANCE - UNESCO INTANGIBLE CULTURAL HEIRITAGE
Transhumance in the Schnalstal Valley is one of the oldest and most spectacular sheep drives in the entire Alpine region and remains a living tradition to this day. This centuries-old form of pastoralism uniquely combines nature, culture and local heritage.
The Schnalstal sheep drive is unique worldwide: it is the only transhumance route that crosses both a glacier and an international border. Every year in mid-June, shepherds lead several thousand sheep from Vernagt and Kurzras across the Niederjoch and Hochjoch passes to the summer pastures near Vent in the Austrian Ötztal Valley. Within two days, humans and animals cover up to 44 kilometers across challenging terrain including snowfields and rocky passages.
In September, sheep, shepherds and dogs return to the valley. The descent is less demanding and traditionally celebrated with a shepherds’ festival. Transhumance in the Schnalstal Valley is not only a remarkable natural spectacle but also a vital part of South Tyrol’s cultural heritage.
EXPERIENCE MORE THAN A RACE
Whether you come to run, support athletes or explore the region, take time to discover Schnalstal beyond the start and finish area.
Visit the archeoParc Schnals, learn about Ötzi and the first Alpine settlers, follow the traces of traditional shepherd routes, and experience a valley where mountain sport and cultural heritage belong together.
Schnalstal Alpine Trail is a race through nature — but also through history.
EVENT LOCATION
ITALY
Unser Frau / Schnalstal
Unser Frau
Frazione Madonna 77
39020 Schnals / Senales (BZ)
ITALY
Unser Frau / Schnalstal
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