If one trail sums up Val di Funes, it's the Adolf Munkel. It runs along the north side of the Odle Group, right under their vertical walls, inside the Puez-Odle Nature Park. The loop is about nine kilometres with a modest 350 metres of climbing, just over three hours, and no exposed sections, which is why it's rated medium and open to anyone who hikes a bit. Along the way you cross forests, clearings and wide pastures, with the spires always in sight.
The handiest start is the Zannes car park at the end of the valley, though plenty of people tie the loop in with the huts above Santa Maddalena. On the route you find refuges and alpine dairies for a break, above all the Geisleralm, one of the most liked for its South Tyrolean cooking and the view it opens straight onto the Odle. There's no shortage of lookouts either, including the well-known one nicknamed Geislerkino. Half a day in the mountains that gives back a lot for moderate effort.
Frequently asked questions
How difficult is the Adolf Munkel Trail?
It's medium difficulty with no exposed sections: about nine kilometres in a loop, just over 300 metres of climbing, around three hours, doable by anyone who hikes with some regularity.
Where does the Adolf Munkel Trail start?
The handiest start is the Zannes car park at the end of Val di Funes. You can also set off on the loop from the farmhouses above Santa Maddalena, at the foot of the Odle.