Stein & Wein – Geologie, Mineralien und Terroir im Welterbe Sardona

What do 250-million-year-old rocks have to do with the taste of a wine?

On this special day hike around Mels in the UNESCO World Heritage Site Tectonic Arena Sardona, we discover the fascinating connection between geology, minerals, landscape and terroir.

On paths with great views, we learn to "read" the landscape: Verrucano rocks, mineral-rich soils, tectonic structures and their influence on vegetation and use are explained directly in the terrain. We learn how the formation of the Alps, rock substrate and exposure shape the soils – and why exactly these factors are also crucial for agriculture and viticulture.

As a sensual supplement to the geological education, participants receive a small sample of a regional wine in order to make the connection between rock, soil and taste tangible (not a tasting offer, but part of the education).

This guided tour is aimed at anyone who wants to experience nature, landscape and enjoyment from a new perspective - no previous geological knowledge required.

On the way we recognize minerals and rocks directly in the terrain and learn to classify typical Verrucano, limestone and flysch rocks in an understandable way. We talk about tectonic structures, soil formation and exposure – and about how geology shapes the landscape, use and ultimately viticulture. A small wine tasting serves as a sensual addition to the geological mediation. The guided tour is led by a certified GeoGuide Sardona.

Route & Duration
Region: Mels – Heiligkreuz – Plons – Ragnatsch
Distance: approx. 9.5 km
Altitude difference: approx. 350 m ascent and descent
Duration: approx. 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Difficulty:
easy to medium

Target group
Adults, nature and pleasure enthusiasts, World Heritage visitors, hikers with no previous geological knowledge.
Good basic fitness required for a half-day hike.

Management
Martin Akeret, certified GeoGuide Sardona and hiking guide, WANDERIDEE.

Good to know
Group size: max. 15 people

Implementation in all weather conditions (adapted program)
What to bring: hiking boots, weather-appropriate clothing, food for the way
Location: Mels – Heiligkreuz – Plons – Ragnatsch