Birnlücke

The well-known crossing from Austria to Italy via the Birnlücke is a popular part of an Alpine cross. The descent on the Italian side is particularly suitable as a day tour and offers a varied and challenging trail.

Description

The tour begins almost at the end of the Ahrntal valley, directly at the Kasern hiking parking lot near the nature park house. The route initially rides along a relaxed route on asphalt and later on gravel towards the Adler Alm and on to the idyllic valley head of the Lahner Alm. This northernmost area of Italy was known, especially before and after the war, for its numerous smugglers' trails used to transport goods between Austria and Italy, including the route over the Birnlücke.

The opportunity to pedal ends at the Kehrer Alm. From here, starting at an altitude of around 1900 meters above sea level, the bike is either shouldered or pushed until you reach the Birnlücke at 2667 meters. This impressive climb, surrounded by 3,000-metre peaks at the foot of the Dreiherrnspitze, is an outstanding experience for any mountain biker. Once you reach the Birnlücke, you are right on the national border between Austria and Italy and can reward yourself with a breathtaking panoramic view.

The subsequent descent is just as spectacular. It leads downhill again on a perfectly maintained mule track, with a continuous level of difficulty between S2 and S3. Full concentration is required as the trail presents the rider with a number of challenges. The route continues over a mix of gravel and asphalt to the Talschlusshütte in Prastmann. Before the tour ends at the starting point at the hiking parking lot, you can tackle another Mulattiera mule track.

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