From Lake Fiè to Tuffalm and Hofer Alpl

DESCRIPTION
Lake Fiè Loop: through enchanted woods, alpine malghe, and stories of hermits.

Geographical Location
Lake Fiè (Völser Weiher in German) is located at an altitude of 1056 meters on the eponymous plateau, in the municipality of Fiè allo Sciliar, about 25 kilometers from Bolzano. Nestled in the heart of the Sciliar-Catinaccio Nature Park, this enchanting body of water lies at the foot of the imposing Sciliar massif, offering a natural landscape of rare beauty.

Hike
The hike from Lake Fiè to Tuffalm and Hofer Alpl is a loop itinerary particularly popular with families. The route, approximately 10 kilometers long with an elevation gain of 500 meters, takes about 3.5 hours and can be hiked from April to November.
The walk winds through lush woods until it reaches the two characteristic alpine malghe. The itinerary does not present any particular difficulties, except for trail no. 3 leading to Hofer Alpl, a steeper section that can easily be avoided by choosing the unpaved road no. 8.
Once at the malghe, children will find equipped playgrounds and can observe the animals grazing in the surrounding meadows up close. A particular feature of Tuffalm is the presence of not only cows and horses but also alpacas and camels.
Both establishments offer genuine and well-prepared cuisine, perfect for a refreshing break during the hike. For those who prefer a more comfortable experience, a horse-drawn carriage service is available throughout the summer season until the beginning of November, departing from the lake parking area and reaching Tuffalm.
An optional extension of the route allows you to visit the Migg Cave (trail no. 8B), which still exists and is preserved with the original furniture of the hermit who lived there. It is reachable via a short but steep path through the woods.

History and Curiosities
In the woods above Malga Tuff lived an extraordinary man named Franz Mich, called Migg by the local inhabitants, who chose to lead an eremitic existence inside a cave. His fascinating story represents a unique example of life in perfect harmony with nature.
Migg spent the summer seasons in complete solitude in his rocky dwelling, while during the harsh winter months he found hospitality with the farming families of Fiè, who generously welcomed him. Despite the spartan conditions and the absence of any modern comforts, the hermit lived to the age of 79, dying in 1977.
The cave that was his home is still visitable today, with the original objects and furniture carefully preserved: from the simple bed to the pots used for cooking, every element tells the story of this extraordinary existence. A precious testimony of resilience and a deep connection with the mountain environment that continues to fascinate visitors.

ITINERARY
From the parking area at 1060 meters, begin with a pleasant walk around Lake Fiè, completing the full circuit of the lake. Then take trail no. 2 towards Umes, continuing through the woods, following in sequence the markers 8, 8A, and 3 until you reach Hofer Alpl (1364 m).
From here, continue on trail no. 8, then branch off onto 8B, which leads with a short climb to the suggestive Migg Cave (1263 m). After visiting the ancient hermit's dwelling, return to the main road and continue always following indication 8B until Malga Tuff (1270 m).
The return to the starting point is comfortably along the unpaved road, first following marker 1B and then marker 1, which lead back to the lake parking area via a downhill route.

EXCURSION DATE
October 5, 2025

STARTING POINT
Lake Fiè

REFRESHMENT POINT
Hofer Alpl (1364 m) and Malga Tuff (1270 m)

AUTHOR’S SUGGESTIONS
Taste the delicious dishes at the refreshment points.

SAFETY ADVICE
The viability of the proposed itinerary, like all mountain terrain, is subject to environmental changes due to natural events and weather conditions. Therefore, before setting off, consult the relevant tourist offices and/or the reference mountain huts.
Our GPX tracks are only indicative, meaning the route was recorded under the best trail and weather conditions of that day. Therefore, always assess on-site what to do.
Also remember to evaluate the route based on your physical abilities, training, and the equipment you have.
It is advisable to inform someone of the itinerary you intend to follow.
Remember that the emergency number is 112.

EQUIPMENT
It is recommended to have equipment suitable for the route, weather conditions, and season: windproof and/or rain jacket, map and/or GPS device, sunglasses, sunscreen, hiking boots, first aid kit, specific clothing, gloves, backpack with food and drinks.

RECOMMENDED MAPS
Tabacco 034 Bozen - Ritten - Salten / Bolzano - Renon - Salto

INTERESTING LINKS
https://www.tuffalm.it/

HOW TO ARRIVE
From Fiè in the direction of Siusi, after about one kilometer you will find a turnoff with the sign for Lake Fiè (Laghetto di Fiè). Continue on this road to the lake parking area.

PARKING AREA
At Lake Fiè, paid parking.
GPS Coordinates: 46.521219, 11.519473

Parcheggio a pagamento

Lago di Fiè

Prendiamo il segnavia 2

Un laghetto artificiale

Proseguiamo sul sentiero 3

Il sentiero è ripido

La prima baita è in vista

Un buon pasto alla Hofer Alpl

Bivio per salire alla Grotta Migg

La Grotta Migg

Siamo sui prati della Tuffalm

La Malga Tuff

La Malga Tuff

Si ritorna al parcheggio

Un altro laghetto artificiale