St. Martin in the Passiria Valley
St. Martin is a small town located in the marvellous holiday region around Merano in Italy. The picturesque town, which is only about 16 kilometres away from Merano, counts some 3,100 inhabitants. The core settlement of St. Martin was already founded in the Medieval Age. Today the town includes the factions of Saltaus and Quellenhof, among others.
The parochial church, around which the settlement developed in the Medieval Age, is today the main attraction of the resort and a sought-after photography motif. The population of St. Martin is still strongly committed to culture and customs. The town is also well-known for having housed in former times the Passirian Painting School which existed between 1719 and 1845. Even today many house facades show still the genuine ancient fresco artwork, bearing witness of this outstanding former institution.
In summer, the public bath and the tennis courts of the small town are much frequented by both the local population and the holiday guests. The sports lovers will also be enthusiastic about the modern indoor climbing facility. In the faction of Saltaus there are moreover a public hay bath and a sauna for relaxing and recreative moments.
The town of St. Martin
The community of St. Martin includes the factions of Saltaus, Quellenhof, Matatz, Kalmtal and Christl. The territory of the town extends over an area of as many as thirty square kilometres.
Christl
The faction of Christl, situated on a sunny plateau, overlooks the village of St. Leonhardt. Today this faction counts just about hundred residents. Being crossed by the "Meraner Höhenweg" hiking trail and being close to the Texelgruppe natural reserve, the faction of Christl is a really recommendable place for nature lovers. You can not only spend here pleasant summer holidays, but also enjoy a stay in winter, when the "Pfelders" skiing area attracts innumerable winter sports enthusiasts
Kalmtal
The resort of Kalmtal, having about 320 inhabitants, is characterized by the river "Kalmbach", which meanders picturesquely through the village. It is surrounded by wide meadows and woodlands, which invite for longer walks.
Matatz
The faction of Matatz is a dispersed settlement on a height of about 1,050 metres. Only roughly 100 residents live in this village, overlooked by the impressive "Matatzspitze" peak, which rises above to a height of 2,191 metres.
Quellenhof
The faction of Quellenhof is famous for its exclusive and elegant hotels. Given that there are numerous golf courts, the village is a sought-after destination for golf players.
Saltaus
Saltaus is the southernmost faction of St. Martin, being only about 9 kilometres away from Merano. It is primarily the hiking area, called "Hirzergebiet", which attracts ramblers from near and from far. The panoramic cable car brings the visitors comfortably to the top of the mountains.
