This short walk to the Small Montiggler Lake winds through sparse coniferous and deciduous woodlands. The two lakes (Small and Large Montiggler Lakes) are particularly renowned for their mild climate in this southern region of South Tyrol and attract numerous tourists every year. Both lakes were formed during the last Ice Age and now feature lovely lidos perfect for swimming. The low water exchange in the lakes is due to the absence of significant tributaries and promotes the natural warming of the water’s surface.

Reachability

From Bolzano, take the Mendelstraße towards Kaltern. On the St. Michael/Eppan bypass, turn right before the tunnel towards the Montiggl Lakes. Driving past the vineyards of Girlan, you will eventually reach the pay-and-display car park II above the Montiggl Lakes after about 1.5 km (two reserved spaces for people with disabilities and a bus stop).

Description

From Visitor Car Park II (545 m), we follow the well-marked Trail 1A, which winds its way along the slope through the dry mixed woodland, rising and falling steadily (gradients of 10%). The natural-surfaced path is fairly wide and easy to walk on, with hardly any steep inclines. Along the way, we come across several rest areas with benches, inviting us to relax and unwind. About halfway along the route (515 m), we catch sight of the surface of Lake Großer Montiggler See to the right, nestled amongst the trees in a broad basin once carved out by glaciers. Eventually, we come to a clear signpost for the Kleiner Montiggler See (520 m) and follow the marked footpath until we cross a small tarmac road.  Continuing straight ahead on the natural-surface footpath, we arrive directly at the lido on the Kleiner Montiggler See. On the well-maintained sunbathing lawn (admission fee applies), you can finally relax and take a dip in the cool water. The walk continues around the lake via the bar terrace and, as a nature trail, features numerous information boards about the local flora and fauna. After a few hundred metres, however, the lakeside path becomes significantly bumpier and steeper. We return to our starting point via the same route.