The Legends Trail on the Salto Plateau – Family Adventure in San Genesio near Bolzano

The Legends Trail in San Genesio on the Salto Plateau is an easy yet longer hike near Bolzano, ideal for families with children who enjoy walking or cycling.
The path follows a mostly flat or gently descending forest road, with only a few short uphill sections. It’s wide and smooth, so kids can safely ride their bikes or balance bikes.

We recommend doing the route one way only, as the full round trip can be too long for younger kids – even with bikes. Along the way, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the Dolomites, peaceful larch meadows, and magical legend stations – a true highlight among family hikes in South Tyrol.

How to Get There

Start at the paid parking lot (approx. €5/day) near the Sportzone San Genesio, right below the Horse Museum. The nearby bus stop “Sportzone Jenesien” is where you can take Bus No. 157 to “Schermoos” in Flaas (departing hourly on weekends, as of 2025 – check the latest schedule in the Südtirol Mobil App).

Good to know:

• Strollers and children’s bikes can be transported on the bus.
• Sometimes a small shuttle bus operates – bikes and strollers can be stored in the luggage compartment.
• Adult bikes cannot be transported.

From Schermoos to the Salto Plateau

At the Schermoos bus stop, cross the road and follow the signs to “Panoramalauf Salten” or “Gasthaus Edelweiß” (currently closed as of 2025). There are no refreshment stops along the trail, so pack enough snacks and water.
The broad forest path runs mostly flat through the typical Salto landscape – vast larch meadows, rustic wooden huts, and grazing cows and horses. The scenery and animals make it an unforgettable experience for children.

The Legends Adventure Trail for Kids

In the second half of the route, the path turns into the Legends Adventure Trail, where families can discover fascinating myths and stories from the castles and villages of the region.

Each station features beautifully crafted wooden figures, designed by pupils from the local primary school in San Genesio. It’s an interactive outdoor adventure, inviting children to explore South Tyrolean legends through play and imagination.
Continue following the “Edelweiß” signs – note that the final stretch before the guesthouse is quite steep, so children should push their bikes here.

Rest Stop at the Wietererhof

After passing the Edelweiß, do not follow the road downhill. Instead, turn right onto a small forest path marked “Wietererhof”. Some sections require pushing the bikes.
After about 20 minutes, you’ll reach the Wietererhof, where a small playground and breathtaking panoramic views of the Dolomites await. It’s the perfect spot for a break with kids!
In autumn, the Wietererhof is also a popular stop for Törggelen – traditional South Tyrolean food and new wine (reservation recommended).

Return to the Starting Point

From the Wietererhof, it’s only about five minutes back to the parking area at the Sportzone San Genesio, where your family adventure on the Legends Trail comes to an end.

The hike takes around two hours one way. We therefore recommend taking the bus for the outward journey and walking back, or letting the kids ride their bikes on the return route. That way, you’ll reach your destination in about 1.5 hours.