A winter hike that requires some physical fitness, but is nevertheless manageable for everyone. The fantastic view along the route, but also once you have reached the plateau, will reward you for all your efforts. Take the time to hike to the end of the plateau - to the chapel "Zum Blinden Herrgott". Linger there for a few minutes and you will almost certainly be able to observe wild animals coming down from the surrounding mountains to the plateau to feed.
From the Padaunerstraße turn-off, follow the road gradually uphill. There are 5 hairpin bends that alternately open up the view to the east or west until you reach your destination at Alpengasthof Steckholzer. Especially at the sight of the nearby Olperer at the end of the valley of Vals - with an altitude of 3,476m - hikers like to linger a little longer. The tour takes place on a road, which, however, is only used as an access road by the few inhabitants at the Padauner Sattel. The road is nicely cleared.
Tip: Stop at Alpengasthof Steckholzer for delicious dumpling dishes!
By public bus to Vals, very easy to reach from Steinach railway station. By car via the B182 (Brenner federal road) to Stafflach; follow the turn-off to St. Jodok; there take the turn-off into the Vals valley; after approx. 1.5 km you will reach the turn-off to Padaun.
