Scenic nature site: Pinnis Valley/Split stone

Description

Relic of spectacular landslides

As romantic as this nature site may be, the history of its origins is just as spectacular. The giant stone that lies here is made from dolomite, which, like all the dolomite ranges in the Stubai Valley, is made up of what is known as Brenner Mesozoic. It is proof of the tremendous rock movements that took place here in the Pinnis Valley several thousand years ago, in the middle of the Elfer’s flanks and the Serles mountain crest. The stone is thought to have broken in two auf crashing to the ground and has remained here split open ever since.

North of the Pinnisalm are even more large blocks of dolomite which are also the result of these spectacular landslides. They mostly come from a large eruption site on the flank of the Elfer summit, which is extremely rugged with numerous spires and pillars.

TOUR DESCRIPTION
From the Elfer lifts mountain station, follow the forest path directly past the sundial. A slight slope leads to the Pinnisalm in the Pinnis Valley, which can be reached in approx. one hour. From there it only takes another 5 minutes in the direction of Neder to reach the natural site of “Pinnis Valley – Split Stone”. To return from there to the starting point at the Elfer lifts valley station, follow the forest path down the valley past the Issenangeralm until you reach the Neder district after approx. 1 hour and 45 minutes. Then turn left and follow the signposts to Neustift. After 20 minutes, you will reach the carpark at the Elfer lifts.

Alternatively, the natural site can also be reached directly via the district of Neder (walking time: 2 hours), or can be combined with the Elfer.