The High Descent — Kaiser-Franz-Josef-Höhe to Heiligenblut

This is Stage 1 of the world-famous Alpe-Adria-Trail. Starting at the dramatic high-alpine amphitheater of the Kaiser-Franz-Josefs-Höhe (2,369m), the trail drops roughly 1,000 meters of descent into the legendary mountaineering village of Heiligenblut. You traverse the moraines of the Pasterze glacier, cross the dramatic turquoise Sandersee and Margaritzen reservoirs, and follow the Briccius trail past ancient chapels. The scenery transitions from raw, glacial desolation to the lush, flower-filled meadows of the Möll valley.

Set high on a dramatic mountain crest overlooking the Urubamba River, the ruins of Pisac form one of the most significant and sweeping Inca complexes in Peru's Sacred Valley. While most tour groups quickly drive up to the top and leave, hikers can embark on a magnificent half-day route connecting the various historical settlements—military fortresses, temples, and sprawling agricultural terraces. The classic hike involves exploring the upper ruins before making the steep, scenic 2-hour foot descent down ancient Incan staircases directly into the bustling artisan market of Pisac town below.