We went on a great family hike in summer 2017, starting in Vent in Ötztal towards the Martin Busch hut (2,501 m) and on to the Similaun hut (3,019 m) with a wonderful stop for refreshments. Then the arduous descent to Vernago. With a distance of around 17.8 km and a difference in altitude of 1,127 m on the ascent and 1,327 m on the descent, this was a strenuous but beautiful day hike. Wonderful mountain pines along the way, glaciers up close, glacier flora, unforgettable panorama.
Every year in mid-June, over 2,000 sheep move along this path to their summer pastures in Vent and then back to the Schnalstal Valley in mid-September. Sheep herding is an old, still living tradition and is part of UNESCO's intangible cultural heritage. Have we piqued your interest? You can find more information under our favourite cultural tip!
It's hard to believe, but 5,300 years ago our ancestors crossed the Alps over this spot. The discovery site of Ötzi, the famous glacier mummy, is located near the Similaun hut. On 19 September 1991, the German holidaymakers Erika and Helmut Simon found the man from the ice above the Niederjochferner at 3,210 m above sea level. . The discovery site, marked by a pyramid, can be reached from Vernago (travel time from Vernago to the site is about five hours). Once you arrive at the site, you will be rewarded with a breathtaking view of the valley, the Similaun (3,599 m) seemingly within reach. Breathe in the fresh mountain air and savour the moment.
A special experience is the Ötzi Glacier Tour, a guided tour of the Ötzi discovery site. Every Tuesday, a mountain guide accompanies you from Grawand over the Hochjochferner to the discovery site and the Similaun hut. The descent is through the Tisental valley to Vernago (walking time approx. 5 hours uphill and 4 hours downhill).
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