Personalities from the region

The Path Expert

Andreas Reier

It’s a cold winter morning when I meet Andreas Reier, the hiking guide of the Val Casies Valley-Monguelfo-Tesido Region. His sun-weathered face and warm smile immediately put me at ease. "Come on, let’s take a walk," he says, leading me along a snow-covered trail. As we walk, he begins to share stories from the past.

A Journey Through Time

"You know," Andreas begins, "what is now a popular pastime was once hard labor." In the 1960s, farming families carved small paths through deep snow to transport hay from the summer meadows down to the valley. There were no forestry roads or winter hiking trails back then. The entire family spent summers mowing the steep alpine fields, storing the hay in wooden huts called "Schupfen". "We slept on the hay and cooked on a wood stove," he recalls. "We had to wait for snowfall before we could transport the hay down—the snow created the perfect surface for sled-like transport."

A Life in Harmony with Nature

Today, Andreas guides visitors through this pristine landscape that he holds so dear. "I love helping people connect with nature, especially those who struggle, whether due to age or fitness," he says. He always walks at the pace of the slowest, ensuring that everyone makes it back safely. "My job—more of a calling, really—is about making nature accessible to all and sharpening their senses for what truly matters. And nature is the best place for that."

Andreas’ Top Winter & Snowshoe Hikes

: From head of the valley in S. Maddalena, along the creek to Aschtalm, continuing to Pfinnalm and back via Aschtalm (with a cozy hut stop). Stunning after fresh snowfall.
: From the head of the valley in S. Maddalena towards Rotmoos, passing by the Acherlealm, then on to the Messnerhütte or Kradorfer Alm, and back along the Squirrel Trail. A peaceful route with enchanting views – perfect for beginners.
: A loop from Mudler to Lutterkopf and Durakopf, returning via Taistner Alm. A hut stop is a must! Breathtaking views of the Dolomites and, on clear days, the Ortler.
: Every Monday afternoon at the head of the valley in S. Maddalena, with technical tips included. Easily accessible by public transport.
: Tour to Kalksteinjöchl in S. Maddalena, requiring ski touring equipment. Stunning views of Villgraten Valley and the Braies Dolomites.

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The First Steps Towards Winter Tourism

“The real boost for winter tourism in our region came with the very first Gsiesertal Lauf in 1984,” says Andreas. Back then, the people of Val Casies Valley only had a 5 km cross-country loop in S. Maddalena. With the creation of the popular cross-country race, the trail was extended to 42 km, running through the entire valley. In the 1960s, a small ski lift was also built in S. Maddalena – one of the very first in the Val Pusteria. “At the same time, the Plan de Corones ski area was just starting to develop,” Andreas recalls. Back then, preparing the slopes was hard work: the skiers themselves had to pack down the snow by walking on it. Over time, the love for outdoor sports grew – and so did the idea of creating the first winter hiking trails.

A Genuine Connection with Nature

Today, the region offers endless opportunities for active winter days. To experience nature means to pause, to slow down, to leave the everyday hustle behind and rediscover the beauty of simple things. When Andreas heads out on his own, he loves ski touring. His advice? “Go during the week – when it’s quieter, and the connection with nature feels even deeper.” Some of his favourite tours include Hohen Mann, Fellhorn, Kaserspitze and Kalksteinjöchl – routes that promise unforgettable mountain moments. And after every adventure? A stop at a mountain hut is a must: for a hearty meal and the joy of sharing the day’s experience. “Sport is also about connection.”

And who knows – maybe one day you’ll let Andreas guide you through these mountains. I, for one, highly recommend it.

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Personalities from the region

The Guardian of History

Brunhilde Rossi Agostini

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