Prantacher Hut

By car, you drive to the edge of San Martino. Just before the village center, turn right and follow the signs for the Golf Club for about 500 meters. Then take a left toward Prantach (well signposted). After approximately 3 kilometers on a paved road, you arrive at the Fartleis hamlet, where there is usually ample parking. From there, the trail begins through the narrow Fartleis gorge, which later opens onto wide mountain meadows. Some stretches are steep and pass through forest and fields; anyone preferring an easier route—or pushing a stroller—can stay on the less steep forest road. After one final stream crossing, the hut is reached in about an hour.

t the entrance to the hut, large wooden benches invite you to sit and enjoy views of peaks like Pfandlerspitze and Hühnerspiel. The outdoor area is well cared for, with many flowers adorning the building, and behind a wooden fence cows graze peacefully. Nearby, chickens, goats, pigs, and turkeys roam in the sun. The atmosphere is intentionally simple—there’s no traditional parlor, but rather a rustic sense of togetherness between the hut crew and guests.

Malga Prantacher is famous for its homemade ravioli, offered either “sull’acqua” (in a wooden bowl with hearty broth) or “sulla terra” (on a bed of fresh mountain herbs). The filling is made with local ingredients such as nettles and alpine herbs, sautéed in butter and finished with Parmigiano cheese. Portions are generous; if you still have room afterward, you can enjoy homemade cakes or the classic Kaiserschmarren. The menu also features simple alpine dishes prepared mainly with products from their own farm and the surrounding area.

Summer Drinks
If you’re in the mood for something refreshing, try the house-made aperitifs and fruity spritzes. Simply settle onto the benches, watch the sunset, and leave everyday hustle behind.

Children and Play Areas
For little ones, there is a small playground with a trampoline right next to the hut. A nearby stream allows children to build small dams, balance on stones, or cool off on hot days. Meanwhile, parents can relax with a cup of coffee.

Return and Circular Routes
To return to the parking area, it’s easiest to retrace the same trail used for the ascent. Alternatively, you can follow a more rugged path from Prantacher Alm to Pfandler Alm, creating a circular hike with varied scenery and viewpoints.

Opening Hours and Notes
Prantacher Alm Fartleis is open from May to October. As it is an active alpine farm, kitchen and service hours depend on agricultural work at the hut. It’s advisable to arrive during core hours (midday to early afternoon) and, if necessary, bring provisions and water with you.