San Martino and its Shield Farms lie in the heart of the Val Passiria, between the spa town of Merano and the Upper Val Passiria
The largest village of the Val Passiria sits where the mild climate of the spa town of Merano meets the refreshing summer air of the valley: San Martino. It is just 16 kilometres to the spa town. The distance is the same to the Upper Val Passiria, where the road climbs to the Passo del Rombo and the Passo di Monte Giovo, and where the Plan Passiria Skiing Area is situated.
Its central location within the diverse landscape of the Gruppo di Tessa Nature Park is ideal for excursions starting from the village. You can explore the rapids of the Passirio in a rafting boat or visit the surrounding alpine pastures on a mountain bike or on foot. Heading up the valley, the first village after Rifiano is Saltusio. Here you will find the valley station of the Hirzer Cable Car. It takes you up to the Monte Cervina hiking area, excellent for leisurely hikers and also for paragliders.
Continuing up the valley, you will reach Sorgente, then Valclava, and San Martino, the main village. It takes its name from St. Martin, to whom the 12th-century parish church is also dedicated. The small clusters of farms known as Cresta, Montaccio, and Novale di Passiria lie on the slopes above.
Seven of the 11 Val Passiria Shield Farms are located in and around San Martino. The Shield Farm Trail begins right at the Saltauserhof Shield Farm in Saltusio. It guides you past centuries-old structures that often resemble grand estates or small castles. Other buildings feature beautifully painted facades: San Martino is the former home of the Passiria Art School.
With its own outdoor pool, an entire nature park, a riding stable, and a Gault Millau-awarded restaurant, San Martino is a delightful world of its own. From here, you can walk to the Pfistrad Alp, the Gilf Waterfall, and the hamlets of Mora and Sant'Orsola along the Val Passiria Panoramic Trail. Alternatively, the cable car provides a ride up to the Monte Cervina alpine pastures. This area starts at a pleasant altitude of 1,400 metres and is therefore also accessible by mountain bike. Down in the valley floor, the Val Passiria Cycle Path leads to San Leonardo or to Merano.
