Weekend in Martell

A network of marked paths through the valley floor and lower slopes, following the Plima River past working farms and hay barns.

Tip: Pick up the map from the tourist office in Gand; the 'Circular Route 1' is flat and takes about 90 minutes at a strolling pace.

A scenic walking path through alpine meadows and woodland near the village centre, with views of the Ortler Alps.

Tip: Start early morning for the best light on the peaks and fewer crowds. Wear sturdy shoes after rain.

A 15th-century stone church with a distinctive onion-domed belltower and well-preserved late Gothic frescoes inside.

Tip: The key hangs on a hook just inside the porch if the door is locked; feel free to go in quietly. No photography during services.

A historic stone bridge over the Plima River, built in the 1700s, with a small waterfall and pool beneath.

Tip: Pack a picnic – the grassy bank on the east side is a quiet spot for lunch. No shade, so go in the morning.

A restored wooden footbridge spanning the Plima Gorge, offering direct views down into the turquoise water and up to the Ortler Alps.

Tip: Go late afternoon when the sun lights the gorge walls; the bridge can be slippery after rain — wear grippy shoes.

A small 15th-century church with Gothic frescoes and a striking onion-domed bell tower in the main square.

Tip: Check the notice board for occasional free guided tours in German or Italian during summer weekends.

A natural deep pool formed by a low waterfall, flanked by smooth rocks for sunbathing. The water is cold and clear.

Tip: Access via a short unmarked path opposite the car park at Laces bridge. Water temp rarely exceeds 14°C even in August — a quick dip only.

A 4 km flat trail circling an emerald-green alpine reservoir, surrounded by larch forest and peaks.

Tip: Drive or cycle to the trailhead – no public transport. Bring binoculars for spotting golden eagles on the cliffs to the south.

Open-air museum with traditional farmhouses, barns and tools illustrating alpine rural life from the 18th century.

Tip: Buy the combined ticket with the nearby sawmill for €5 total. Allow 90 minutes to see everything.

Small open-air farm museum with reconstructed stables, a sawmill, and traditional tools used by valley farmers before 1950.

Tip: Entry is €3, cash only. Ask the custodian to show you the water-powered threshing machine — it still runs on summer weekends.