Welcome to Matsch
First mountaineering village in South Tyrol
1584 m a.s.l.
The charming village of Matsch is part of the municipality of Mals and lies tucked away in the quiet Matschertal valley. This rustic side valley of the Vinschgau branches off to the southeast at Tartsch and winds its way towards the main Alpine ridge. Nestled between larch forests, mountain pastures and dreamy peaks, it truly lives up to its reputation as the first mountaineering village in South Tyrol.
The “Bergsteigerdörfer” initiative by the Alpine associations stands for gentle, nature-based tourism. This network brings together places with intact natural and cultural landscapes that have made the mountains and mountaineering part of their identity. A strong community, old knowledge of sustainable irrigation and local value creation make Matsch a place that fulfils everything the mountaineering village label stands for.
The Matschertal valley also has plenty of history to tell. As the ancestral seat of the Vögte von Matsch, a noble family with influence far beyond the Vinschgau, the valley was already an important place in the Middle Ages. What remains of these grand times above all is: authenticity, simplicity and a deep bond with nature.
Highlights in Summer
Summer in Matsch means pure closeness to nature. From the Ackerwaal to the Matscher Alm and up to the Saldursee lakes on South Tyrol’s highest lake plateau, every highlight here is worth discovering. Whether a gentle walk to the castle ruins at the valley entrance or a sporty hike to the Oberetteshütte at 2670 metres - every adventure starts right on your doorstep. Enjoy carefree summer happiness in the valley!
Matscher Alm
A popular hut at around 2000 metres. Whether as a hiking destination or a stop along the way - homemade South Tyrolean specialities and an authentic mountain hut atmosphere are always a delight. The one and a half hour walk from the Glieshöfe is more than worth it.
Oberetteshütte
A little challenge that sporty hikers and mountaineers love. This mountain hut adventure at 2670 metres is surrounded by glaciers and majestic three-thousand-metre peaks. From the Matscher Alm, a tricky trail leads you to this rewarding destination.
Hiking taxi Glieshöfe
Reach the Glieshöfe, the starting point of many hikes, comfortably from the centre of Matsch in just 10 minutes. This service runs from June to October, and with the Reschensee Guest Pass you can use it for free. Hop on, hop off, start hiking!
Long-distance hike Bergsteigerdörfer
From Matsch through Schlinig to the Engadin. Covering several stages, you follow mountain pastures, high trails, historic crossings and pass through the Uinaschlucht gorge. Enjoy this special cross-border experience and pure mountain culture. It is well worth the effort!
To the Saldurseen lakes
Follow marked trails that require a bit of sure-footedness from the Oberetteshütte and you’ll reach these crystal-clear mountain lakes in about one and a half hours. Enjoy the views, the glacier backdrop and the unique atmosphere on South Tyrol’s highest lake plateau.
Highlights in Winter
Winter in Matsch is not just blessed with snow but also surprisingly varied. What about a snowshoe hike into the Upital valley or to the Matscher Alm? Or some tobogganing fun that runs from there down to the Glieshöfe? Why not try it all. A small family ski lift and idyllic hiking trails complete the quiet winter experience far away from the crowds.
Matscher Alm
A popular hut at around 2000 metres. Whether as a hiking destination or a stop along the way - homemade South Tyrolean specialities and an authentic mountain hut atmosphere are always a delight. The one and a half hour walk from the Glieshöfe is more than worth it.
Ramudla Lift
The perfect easy start to skiing. This small drag lift on the edge of Matsch offers ideal conditions for those first runs in the snow. Simple, sunny and full of charm - it couldn’t be better for families and beginners.
Snowshoe hiking
Get strapped up! Untouched winter landscapes and magical silence await snowshoe hikers in the Matschertal valley. Whether to the Matscher Alm, the snow-sure Upital or higher into the mountains - there are routes for every level of fitness.
Ski tours
Those who love to put on their skins will find their dream terrain in the Matschertal. From easy tours with unique views to demanding glacier routes starting at the Oberetteshütte, the snow adventures here go deep in every sense.
Accommodations
Holidays straight from the heart. A cosy guesthouse, a family-friendly farm stay or a stylish hotel? Matsch offers the perfect holiday base for every taste. Here you will find what suits you best.
Feel the Summer
That pictures say more than words is proven when browsing our gallery. Anticipation and memories may become stirred. Above all else, there is sure to be a great deal of excitement about the beauty of summer in the Matschertal valley.
Enjoy the Winter
That pictures say more than words is proven when browsing our gallery. Anticipation and memories may become stirred. Above all else, there is sure to be a great deal of excitement about the beauty of winter in the Matschertal valley.
Location & Arrival
Matsch lies in the Oberer Vinschgau in the west of South Tyrol, at the end of the unspoilt Matschertal valley, which branches off at Tartsch and leads deep into the Ötztal Alps.
From the north:
Innsbruck Landeck
From Innsbruck and the Fernpass, continue over the Reschenpass and along the state road through Mals to Tartsch, then turn left and follow the Matschertal valley to Matsch.
From the south:
Bozen Meran
The MEBO express road (Meran-Bozen) leads directly to the Vinschgau state road, which takes you via Schluderns to Tartsch. There, turn right and follow the Matschertal to Matsch.
Whether coming from the north, west or south - Matsch can also be reached easily and comfortably by public transport.
Link to public transport - click here.
