San Pancrazio

The little village of San Pancrazio is located at an altitude of 736 meters and is the first larger settlement in the approximately 40-kilometer-long Ultental. Here, a paradise awaits nature lovers and those who are yet to become one. The valley has a very original shape, with the villages and settlements mostly located on sunny slopes, often at the foot of the tree line. The Falschauer River, which flows leisurely through the valley, completes the alpine idyll. To the northwest, the Hochwart (2608 meters) and the Rauhebühel (2026) provide the right "frame" – two massive mountains belonging to the imposing Ortler group. On the southern side of the valley, the Große Laugenspitze towers with its stately 2434 meters and the Äußere Berg (1671 meters).

With such a dreamlike backdrop, it is hardly surprising that hiking is enjoyed to the fullest in and around San Pancrazio / St. Pankraz. Those who prefer a leisurely pace can stroll along the lush meadows or walk on shady forest paths. Ambitious active holidaymakers can try a challenging climbing tour or one of the numerous hiking routes leading directly into the surrounding mountains.

The municipality of San Pancrazio / St. Pankraz, with its 1500 inhabitants, is not only an ideal starting point for sporting activities in untouched nature, but also for a day trip to Merano. The popular spa town is only 10 kilometers away and can be easily reached by car or public transport.

In San Pancrazio / St. Pankraz, there are some beautiful places that visitors should definitely visit. The special thing: most of the sights can be reached on a walk, combining cultural enjoyment with a little exercise. In the center of the village lies the church of San Pancrazio / St. Pankraz. It has a beautiful church clock, the dial of which was artfully hand-painted. In addition, the Gothic church tower impressively reaches a height of 56 meters. Equally worth seeing is the St. Helena Chapel. It is located on a 1532-meter-high forest hill and is easily recognizable from a distance. The small church first appeared in documents around 1338 and still attracts many interested visitors every year. They are usually impressed by the neo-Romanesque high altar and the Baroque figures inside the chapel.

During a walk through San Pancrazio / St. Pankraz, one should not miss the "Häusl am Stoan". This is actually a house built on a huge rock. A severe storm in 1882 brought uncontrollable masses of water to San Pancrazio / St. Pankraz. As a result, the Falschauer overflowed and carried away numerous farms. Only the "Häusl am Stoan" could withstand the incredible forces of nature – it was built on a rock.

Part of the Ultental is already located in the Stilfserjoch Nature Reserve – a trip there is worthwhile for the whole family. In the protected area, you will encounter rare animal species such as royal ibexes, cute marmots, and magnificent golden eagles. Here, you can admire not only beautiful animals but also the wonderful flowers and plant species that are typical of the alpine habitat.