Köfele Trail in Meltina
The Köfele Trail in Meltina is a varied adventure trail for families with children in South Tyrol. Stretching from Meltina to Verano, this family-friendly hike features six interactive stations focused on climbing, movement, and play—perfect for little explorers looking for fun and small challenges along the way.
- Region: Burgraviato
- Categories: Adventure hiking trail, spring hike, autumn hike, with playground
- Seasons: Spring, summer, autumn, winter
- Duration: 1 hour one way, one hour return (walking time only – allow extra time with kids)
- Elevation Gain: 170 m ascent, 170 m descent
- Distance: 5.7 km
- Difficulty: Easy
- Starting point: Meltina, public parking area near the fire station
Route Description
Hiking, climbing, playing, and discovering – the Köfele Trail is a perfect outdoor experience for families. Kids who love climbing will especially enjoy this route: the stations range from simple climbing elements to more challenging sections at height, offering something for every age group.
Six adventure stations between Meltina and Verano
The trail connects Meltina and Verano and can be walked in either direction. If you start in Verano, taking the Postal–Verano cable car is highly recommended—the gondola ride itself is already a highlight for children.
We started in Meltina and hiked as far as Salonetto (Schlaneid), focusing on the first four stations, which we found the most exciting. If you plan to complete all six stations, allow about one hour of walking time per direction—though with kids, you’ll likely spend much longer enjoying the stops along the way.
Starting in Meltina: First stations along the trail
Park at the public parking lot next to the fire station in Meltina, directly opposite the Meltina Fossil Museum. From there, walk uphill briefly, follow the sidewalk to the left, cross the road, and continue across a meadow.
The first station appears quickly: a large wooden Haflinger horse, perfect for climbing and playing. The trail then continues through the forest to a treehouse—the second station—with a picnic table and beautiful views, ideal for a short break.
A bit further on, you’ll find a small via ferrata-style climbing section for kids, featuring ropes and steeper passages. Younger children should be supervised here.
Highlight: The giant wooden figure
The fourth station is the highlight of the trail: a large wooden giant with long slide legs and a climbable interior. Kids can make their way up inside the structure—an exciting challenge for the more adventurous.There are also several benches and tables nearby, making it a perfect picnic spot while the kids play.
Continue hiking or stop for a break
From here, you have several options:
- Continue to the cable car in Verano (no more stations)
- Head towards Salonetto with a stop at Schlaneiderhof (check opening hours)
- Continue along the Köfele Trail to the Bacherhof in Verano, passing the fifth station (balancing on giant insects)
We hiked to Salonetto and took the bus back to Meltina—after all the climbing and playing, the kids were ready for a break.
A great place to eat nearby is the Lingeralm. Just a 5-minute drive from the parking area, this family-friendly farm offers animals, a playground, and excellent food—perfect to end your hike.
Tips for visiting the Köfele Trail
- Not suitable for strollers
- Best in spring and autumn (can get quite hot in summer)
- Plan extra time—kids will want to stay and play at each station
More adventures you might like:
Would you like to share feedback about this destination?
Feel free to share alternative routes, personal experiences, or tips.
This space is for exchanging ideas!
