General description
This tour, that can be done from early spring to late autumn, depending on the weather, takes us along the highest grain farm in Europe. Grain was cultivated at this altitude right up to the second half of the last century, when the construction of the dam and reservoir also changed the climate of the Schnalstal Valley. There are archaic structures along this trail that have only changed slightly during the development of mountain farming over thousands of years.
Route description
From the car park in Maso Corto/Kurzras, we follow the road for a few minutes until we come to a gate on the left. The trail (no. 7) towards Vernago/Vernagt begins here through pastures and a sparse larch forest. As the trail is very exposed in places, extreme care must be taken. It leads to the Finailhof farm (1,973 m a.s.l), where you can take a light snack. It is said that in 1416, the Finail farmers gave shelter to Duke Friedrich IV, on the run “with an empty sack”. The farmers are said to have protected him by using him as a farmhand to herd sheep. There is a goblet on display in the hallway of the farm that is said to be a gift from the Duke. Although we continue on to Raffeinhof farm (1,822 m a.s.l) with no great difference in altitude, there are some places on the way that are somewhat exposed and require extra attention. We continue down to Tisenhof farm (1,814 m a.s.l) that is situated majestically at the entrance to the eponymous valley. You can have refreshments here and the view of Vernago reservoir, which used to have eight farms on its ground, is magnificent. Crossing the access road, we arrive in Vernago/Vernagt (1,711 m a.s.l).
Description to arrive at destination
Naturno/Naturns - Senales Valley - Maso Corto/Kurzras
Parking
parking place in front of the village Maso Corto/Kurzras in summer to pay, unguarded; in winter free, unguarded
Public transport
with the bus line no. 261 to Maso Corto/Kurzras