The snowshoe hike to the Malga Lyfi (Lyfi Alm) is a true gem for connoisseurs, nature lovers, and anyone seeking to slow down. No race against time, no summit storm – just a quiet immersion in the winter landscape.
🌨️ The way to Lyfi Alm – silence, snow, and pure nature
The starting point of the tour is the upper Martelltal, usually at the last farms or at the "Enzianalm" parking lot. From here, the path gently leads uphill – past snow-covered spruces, larches, and old dry stone walls, under which water quietly gurgles even in winter.
With snowshoes on your feet, you glide step by step through the fresh powder snow. Every breath is clear and fresh, the valley slowly opens up, and with each meter, everyday life fades further behind.
Up here, you hardly encounter anyone – at most a fox or deer that cautiously disappears among the trees.
The route is technically easy but incredibly atmospheric. Especially in the morning, when the sunlight sweeps over the snow-covered peaks of the Ortler group, the landscape sparkles in countless shades of white.
🏔️ The Malga Lyfi – a place of tranquility at 2,000 meters
After about 1.5 to 2 hours, you reach the Lyfi Alm at around 2,160 meters.
Managed in summer, it is often quiet and snowy in winter – but that is precisely what makes its charm.
From here, there is a magnificent view of the Ortler group, the Cevedale, and the surrounding peaks of the Stilfserjoch National Park.
On clear days, the view extends far beyond the Martelltal – a panorama that brings peace.
Many hikers bring a thermos and some South Tyrolean bacon or cheese and enjoy a well-deserved break in the sun.
In spring, when the Alm is once again managed, you can try homemade specialties such as dumplings with sauerkraut, Kaiserschmarrn, or a glass of fresh buttermilk – simple dishes, but full of flavor and a reminder of what real alpine life means.
🧭 Practical tips for your snowshoe hike
Starting point: Martelltal, parking lot Enzianalm or Gasthof zum See (depending on snow conditions)
Duration: about 1.5–2 hours ascent, 1 hour descent
Elevation difference: about 400 meters
Difficulty level: easy to moderately difficult
Equipment: snowshoes, poles, waterproof clothing, warm drinks
Best time: December to March, with stable weather and sufficient snow cover
💡 Tip: Those who start the tour at sunrise experience the Ortler group in golden light – a moment you won't forget quickly.
🌲 Nature experience & sustainability
The region around the Lyfi Alm is located in the Stilfserjoch National Park, one of the oldest and most species-rich protected areas in the Alps.
Here it applies: Enjoy nature, but act respectfully.
Stay on marked paths, avoid loud music, and take your trash back with you – this way, this paradise will remain preserved for future generations.
The Martelltal is also a pioneer in gentle tourism. Many accommodations focus on regional products, energy efficiency, and sustainable mobility. Ideal for those who want to travel consciously – in the spirit of Slow Travel.
🍽️ Culinary recommendations in the Martelltal
After returning to the valley, it is worth stopping at one of the cozy inns, such as:
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Gasthof Waldheim: South Tyrolean home cooking with regional ingredients and a cozy parlor.
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Bio-Hotel zum See: Sustainable cuisine with products from the Martelltal.
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Restaurant zum Goldenen Löwen in Morter: For those who crave a hearty game dish or homemade pasta after the hike.
Along with a glass of Vinschger white wine or an herbal tea made from mountain herbs – and the winter day is perfect.
📸 For connoisseurs, photographers & seekers of peace
The snowshoe hike to Malga Lyfi is not a sporting adventure, but an experience for the soul.
Ideal for those seeking the quiet side of winter – far from ski lifts, music, and hustle.
Whether alone, as a couple, or with friends: The path gives you what is rarely found in the city – silence, vastness, and the feeling of truly arriving.
🌨️ Conclusion
The tour to the Malga Lyfi is an invitation to rediscover winter in South Tyrol:
slower, more conscious, more authentic.
Those standing up here, breathing in the clear mountain air and looking at the white peaks, feel why this valley is so special.
It's not about speed or performance – but about the simple, deep happiness that can only be found in the silence of the mountains.
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