Three-thousand views: South Tyrol’s “Little Tibet” attracts climbers

three thousand in sight
South Tyrol’s “Little Tibet” Attracts Climbers

11/27/2022 at 8:24 pm

In an ancient South Tyrolean valley you can find a place that is also known as “Little Tibet”. The mud boasts a long history and today mainly attracts hikers. Above all, the valley provides solitude in winter and summer.

There is a village called “Little Tibet” in the Ötztal Alps. the reason? The place is surrounded by high mountains – almost more than 3000 meters high. For many climbers, Maatsch village is a starting point for tourism in the high mountains. But not only this: a special atmosphere emanates from the small roof of the world.

The mountaineering village of Mazia in Italy is already at an altitude of over 1500 metres. The place belongs to the municipality of Malles im Winchgau in South Tyrol. Only 460 residents live here, which also means it is very isolated. The landscape is characterized by black pine forests and steppe vegetation. Many animals live in the unique natural setting – golden eagles and bearded vultures are at home here, in addition to chamois and other wild species.

Village at an altitude of 1500 meters above sea level

The place was first mentioned in 824, at that time under a different name. The Celts are said to have settled here around 400 BC. Powerful bailiffs once lived in Obermatsk and Untermatsk castles, the ruins of which remain today. By the 16th century, they were among the most respected noble families in Vinschgau. The original mountain agricultural culture can still be felt today. In 2017 Matsch was named the first South Tyrolean Mountaineering Village of the International Alpine Club initiative.

From here several hiking trails lead to untouched nature. For example, how about Winscher Hohenweg? It passes through the most beautiful valley stretches at an altitude of about 2000 meters above sea level. For this, hikers have to plan for about four hours. The Weisskugel, the second highest mountain in the Ötztal Alps, rises 3,739 m to the sky. Glacier equipment is required here. But the Rabenkopf (3394 m) or the Welvelspitze (3360 m) are also popular places in the region. The 3905 m high Mount Ortler in South Tyrol can also be seen from there.