The Adolf Munkel trail is the signature trek of Val di Funes: it runs almost entirely on a level course at the base of the imposing northern walls of the Odle, alternating spruce forests, clearings and welcoming alpine huts.
It is an easy yet long route, ideal for fit families, offering close-up views of one of the most spectacular Dolomitic skylines in existence.
How to get there — Parcheggio Zannes / Malga Zannes (1.685 m)
The starting point is the car park at Malga Zannes, at 1,685 m, at the head of Val di Funes about 5 km beyond Santa Maddalena. Drive up from Bressanone through San Pietro and Santa Maddalena to the valley floor, where the paid car park acts as the gateway to the Puez-Odle Nature Park. In summer a scheduled bus links the valley villages with the Zannes area — handy on busy days when parking spaces vanish early in the morning. Arriving early remains the best move, both to set off at a relaxed pace and to find the Odle walls still in good light.
The trailhead is in the Val di Funes area. Check the travel guide for lift schedules, parking and access rules.
Stage by stage
1. From Malga Zannes to the base of the Odle
Climb gently through the forest until the trail opens up beneath the spires of the Odle.
2. Traverse beneath the north walls
The central section hugs the north faces, with constant views up at the peaks and possible stops at the alpine huts along the way.
3. Return via the huts
Close the loop passing the panoramic alpine huts — excellent for a local-food break — before returning to the car park.
When to go & weather
The season runs from June to October, with the trail clear and the huts along the way open for a break. In summer the meadows are in bloom and the dairies in full swing, but the north faces of the Odle stay in shade until mid-morning, so if you want the best photographs it is worth arriving when the sun lights them up. September and early October bring the warm light of autumn and fewer people on the trails. It is an easy (E) but long loop: around 9-10 km with gentle ups and downs, so at the end of the season bear in mind the shortening daylight hours.
Recommended gear
- Hiking boots or trekking shoes with a sole that grips on the forest floor
- A rucksack with water and something to eat for the four hours of walking
- Waterproof jacket and a warm spare layer
- Hat, sunglasses and sun cream for the open stretches across the pastures
- Trekking poles, useful on the ups and downs between Rifugio Genova and Malga Brogles
Useful tips
- Follow trail 35 beneath the walls and return on trails 34 and 36 towards the dairies to complete the loop
- Treat yourself to a stop at a dairy: the Geisler Alm (Rifugio Odle) and the Gschnagenhardt Alm are popular for their home-made produce
- If the full 9-10 km is too much, shorten it by returning from one of the intermediate dairies
- Keep an eye on when the sun reaches the Odle: at mid-morning the walls light up and change completely
- Carry a water supply, as springs in the forest are not guaranteed
- Keep dogs on a lead in the grazing areas, out of respect for the livestock and the shepherds
Huts and rest points
- Malga Glatsch (Geisleralm) (1996 m) — Malga panoramica sul sentiero Adolf Munkel, celebre per la cucina tipica altoatesina. Details →
Frequently asked questions
Is the Adolf Munkel trail suitable for children?
Yes, it has no technical difficulties; however, the length (around 11 km) should be considered. The loop can be shortened by turning back at one of the huts along the way.