Cycling during the apple blossom season
Late March, early April – something special happens in South Tyrol. Suddenly, the apple orchards aren’t just green anymore – they light up in white and pink. Millions of blossoms as far as the eye can see. This is when cycling becomes twice as rewarding. The temperatures are mild, the air is fragrant, and your eyes naturally drift across the blooming slopes.
“When I cycle through the orchards in spring, I automatically slow down – not the bike, but my mind,” says Thomas, host at BikeHotel Schulerhof in Naturns.
1. Along the Adige Cycle Path from Mals to Merano
You follow the Adige River, gently downhill. Start in Mals, ride through the upper Vinschgau valley, past Glurns, Schlanders, Naturns, and on to Merano. The path runs right through apple orchards – at times so close you could almost touch the blossoms. Perfect for relaxed day trips.
- BikeHotels along the route: Hotel Schulerhof, Dolce Vita Hotel Jagdhof
2. Circular route near Algund: springtime in Merano
Start in Algund. From there, the ride takes you via Rabland and Partschins, partly on the Vinschgau cycle path, partly along historic Waalwege trails. About 20 km – perfect for a half-day ride with plenty of blooming scenery.
- BikeHotels nearby: Hotel Waldhof, Design Hotel Tyrol, byRosi
3. South Tyrolean Wine Road: blossoms between Nals and Kaltern
Alternatives: cycling through the Überetsch apple region / blooming paths along the Wine Road
Between Nals and Kaltern, it’s not just about wine. Apples grow in abundance here – and bloom particularly richly in spring. The cycle path stays off busy roads, winding through orchards, small villages and offering beautiful views.
- BikeHotel tip: Gasthof BikeHotel Terzer
4. Natz-Schabs: the plateau for blossom lovers
The high apple plateau near Brixen is a bit more hidden – but truly idyllic. Blossoms start a little later here, around mid-April. Ideal if you’re visiting later in the season. The routes are short, but the blooms are lush.
- BikeHotel nearby: Hotel Jonathan in Natz
When do the blossoms appear?
- It depends largely on elevation:
- Lower Adige Valley (e.g. Kaltern, Merano): late March to early April
- Vinschgau & high plateaus (e.g. Natz-Schabs): mid to late April
- A short cold spell can delay blooming – check suedtirolerapfel.com for current updates.
A few more tips:
- Start early: morning light is especially beautiful – and the trails are quiet.
- Don’t pick the flowers! As tempting as it may be – they’re vital for the harvest.
- Take breaks, slow down, and just enjoy
The apple cycling routes
