Mountain biking in Sulden at the foot of the Ortler

The mountain bike tour along the Goldsee trail comes not just with beautiful views of the Ortler, but also offers information on the region on dedicated panels. The Goldsee trail from the Stilfserjoch at 2,757 m to the Furkelhütte (2,153 m – refreshments served) is the classic among mountain bike tours in the Vinschgau. The trail was originally created for the glacier front during WWI and is open daily for bikers until 9am and after 4pm. To make the ascent easier for bikers and spare them the 48 hairpin bends, there is also a shuttle service available that takes them up to Stilfserjoch. 

Route description: From the Stilfserjoch at 2,754 m, the 3.5-hour route (trail no. 20) leads up Dreisprachenspitze and then past Goldsee lake to Furkelhütte. After a rest stop, continue by chairlift or through the forest (trail no. 17) all the way down to Trafoi. 

• Length: 72.468 km 
• Level of difficulty: intermediate 
• Vertical metres uphill: 3314 
• Vertical metres downhill: 3314 
• Elevation: 2855 m 

This tour combines challenging ascents, rapid descents and untouched nature to create an unforgettable biking experience. From the starting point in Prad, the route first leads through the charming village of Lichtenberg and on via the picturesque Pinethöfe to the Lichtenberger Schartalm. Even here, wide views over the valley and the surrounding peaks open up. The first descent on a gravel road takes us above Stilfs to our next adventure: The second, challenging ascent begins at 1,465 metres – past the Fragges game reserve, where, with a bit of luck, you can see deer. With every turn, the majestic Ortler massif draws closer until we finally reach the Furkelhütte. A rest here is well worth your while: a hearty snack, a refreshing drink and the incomparable panoramic views more than make up for the ascent. The subsequent descent to Trafoi is a pleasure – along the idyllic Almenweg, with lush meadows and rustic mountain huts as a backdrop. 

Tip: A stop at the naturatrafoi National Park Centre is a great way to learn more about the fascinating plant and wildlife of the Stilfserjoch National Park. The last stretch back to Prad is an easy ride along the country road – the perfect end to a tour that combines sport, nature and adventure in a unique way. 

• Length: 39 km
• Level of difficulty: intermediate 
• Vertical metres uphill: 1630
• Vertical metres downhill: 1630  

The Madritschjoch is one of the highest bike-accessible crossings in the Alps and a legendary route for bikers crossing the Alps on their way to Lake Garda. With the majestic peaks of Ortler, Cevedale and Königsspitze, nature really puts on a spectacular show along this route.  

Description: The tour starts in Sulden, optionally by cable car all the way to Schaubachhütte (2,581 m), cutting down on 710 vertical metres. The ascent to Madritschjoch is challenging, but up to 80% of it is manageable by bike for experienced uphill bikers. Once you’re up there, one of the most stunning descents of the Alps awaits, a mix of high alpine challenges and leisurely flow trails. Important: The first stretch into the Madritschtal valley is technically challenging, with a risk of falling! A stop in the Zufallhütte is a great idea not only for a well-deserved break, but also because of its spectacular location. The trail picks up again from here: The Talweg (trail no. 36) takes you past the derelict Hotel Paradiso and along the lake to the masonry dam. The descent to Goldrain is packed with difficult corners and flowing passages – a rewarding, but time-intensive challenge. For a less technically difficult descent down into the valley, stick to the country road. 

• Length: 37 km
• Level of difficulty: difficult
• Vertical metres uphill: 1329
• Vertical metres downhill: 2570