Shiny foil wrappers containing bars made from twelve-and-a-half ingredients that nobody can pronounce. Little plastic bottles with bright blue contents that probably glow in the dark, too. Sachets of powder made from berries that grow somewhere in the jungle, a long way from my 1,400 metres here in the Schnalstal. What some hikers nowadays call a snack is quite an adventure. Yet it would be so simple: anyone hiking in the Schnalstal should snack just like the locals do. You can read how to do that here.
The two-way rule for your mountain hike provisions
My people firmly believe that there are exactly two correct ways to pack a rucksack for hiking in the Schnalstal. Which one you choose depends entirely on the destination of the hike.
Route one, the remote mountain peak:
If you’re heading up over 2,500 metres in altitude, into the realm of the Schnals sheep, your rucksack needs to be properly packed. With plenty of water, a hearty snack, and perhaps a flask for that moment at the summit. Your snack box should contain: bacon, cheese, smoked sausages, a Vinschgerle (typical bread) from the Schnals baker and a hard-boiled egg. And a crisp apple. That’s all you need. At most, a piece of glucose or chocolate, in case you run out of steam on the final stretch.
Option two, the rustic alpine hut:
If, on the other hand, your hike takes you to a traditional mountain inn or a mountain hut serving food in the Schnalstal valley, then all you need in your rucksack is water. And at most, an apple for the journey. Because my farmhands all agree: you stop off at a mountain hut, full stop. There’s nothing better than leaning against a sun-warmed wooden beam, gazing out at the surrounding mountains and having the alpine innkeeper and dairymaid serve up homemade food. Anyone who doesn’t do that hasn’t understood the mountains.
What you really need to pack in your rucksack when hiking in South Tyrol
As you’ve probably noticed, here at the Oberraindlhof we’re not really into exotic foods or trendy superfoods. But we do value common sense. And proper mountain gear, too. That’s why my staff have put together a list of the essentials you should never be without:
- A dermatologically tested sun cream with high UV protection
- A sun hat or a cap
- Hiking trousers with zips so you can roll them up at the summit and roll them back down for the descent
- Sturdy, high-quality hiking boots
- Good hiking poles
- A first-aid kit
- Up-to-date maps of the hiking trails in the Schnalstal
Always a good idea: a healthy dose of respect for the mountain, a realistic assessment of your own ability and fitness, and a little space in your heart for the beauty of nature.
