The 20 Most Amazing Peaks around Mels

For truly expansive views, consider Pizalun Summit and Viewpoint, which provides vistas of the St. Gallen and Chur Rhine Valleys, Prättigau, Bündner Herrschaft, Sarganserland, and Liechtenstein. Another excellent choice is Alvier Peak, known for its extensive 360-degree views towards Lake Walen, the Rhine Valley, Lake Constance, and mountains across several cantons and even Liechtenstein and Vorarlberg.

Yes, for experienced hikers seeking a challenge, Margelchopf Summit offers well-maintained paths with sections secured by ropes near the summit. Falknis Summit, at 2560 meters, also presents a challenging ascent with a rewarding 360-degree view.

The region offers diverse natural features. On Pizalun, you'll find a viewing platform accessible via a steep steel staircase, marking a cantonal border. The Pizol area is famous for its '5-lake walk,' showcasing five crystal-clear mountain lakes. The nearby Weisstannental, part of the Pizol region, is home to chamois, bearded vultures, ibexes, and numerous waterfalls.

Beyond peak bagging, the area around Mels is excellent for various outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, including moderate routes like the Batöni waterfall arena. For cyclists, there are challenging cycling routes, such as the Lake Walen Cycle Path. Mountain biking enthusiasts can explore MTB trails, including difficult loops like the Sargans Castle route.

Yes, on Alvier Peak, a small, hosted mountain hut is located a few meters below the summit at 2340 meters above sea level. It offers overnight accommodation for up to 20 people, providing a perfect spot to linger and enjoy the surroundings.

Pizalun Summit and Viewpoint stands at a cantonal border between St. Gallen and Graubünden. Further south, Falknis Summit is uniquely situated on the border between Liechtenstein and Switzerland, specifically between the Graubünden municipality of Fläsch and the Liechtenstein municipality of Triesen.

The Pizol area, part of Mels' municipal area, is renowned for its '5-lake walk' during warmer months, offering spectacular views of the Eastern Swiss Alps. In winter, Pizol transforms into a popular ski resort with up to 52 km of groomed slopes. The Weisstannental, within the Pizol region, is also notable for its rich wildlife, including chamois, bearded vultures, and ibexes.

While many peaks offer challenging routes, the Pizol area's '5-lake walk' can be adapted for various fitness levels, with sections offering moderate difficulty. For general hiking, the hiking guide for Mels includes routes like the 'Chapfenstein Viewpoint – Chapfen Lake loop from Chapfensee' which is rated as easy.

Visitors consistently praise the magnificent panoramas and breathtaking 360-degree views from summits like Pizalun, Margelchopf, Alvier, and Falknis. The well-maintained paths and the opportunity to linger and enjoy the scenery, especially at places like the Alvier hut, are also frequently highlighted.

While specific public transport routes directly to each summit vary, Mels itself is accessible by public transport. From Mels, you can often find connections or starting points for trails leading to the peaks. For example, the Pizol area is well-serviced, providing access to its hiking and winter sports offerings.

The best time for hiking the mountain peaks around Mels is generally during the warmer months, from late spring to early autumn (May to October), when trails are clear of snow and weather conditions are more stable. However, the Pizol area also offers winter sports opportunities, making it a year-round destination depending on your activity of choice.