Hiking on the Monte Mezzodì: from the chestnut groves to the three-thousanders of the Saldur and Mastaun Groups
Image gallery: Monte Mezzodì
Monte Mezzodì, or Monte Sole (Sonnenberg), refers to the entire southern flank of the Val Venosta between Parcines and Malles, but also to a hamlet belonging to the municipality of Silandro. It is located north of the main town on the slopes of the eponymous Monte Sole in the Val Venosta. Here, you are already close to the Valle di Silandro, which leads deep into the Venosta Alps.
At the head of the valley - apart from a few alpine huts, the area is uninhabited - the imposing Ramudla Peak rises. This natural landscape is very popular with hikers, there are even crossings to Senales and Mazia. You can enjoy excellent hiking around the farms of Talaccio, Monte di Silandro, and Tappein at any time of year: from the chestnut groves in the valley, across the slopes of the Monte Sole, up to the imposing Punta Saldura and the peaks of the Mastaun Group.
Other paths will show you the centuries-old "Waale" - the traditional irrigation channels - or run as ridge tours at dizzying heights, often away from the well-trodden routes.
In Monte Mezzodì, the mild spring days and golden autumn days are particularly appreciated. The view sweeps into the valley, where the orchards bloom in April and May, and towards Schlandersberg Castle, which sits enthroned above Silandro. This ancestral seat of the Lords of Schlandersberg dates back to the 13th century. The paths are also pleasant to walk in winter, as the Sun Mountain usually remains snow-free thanks to its exposed, sunny location.
