Second only to the Wildspitze, the glaciated Palla Bianca is the highest summit of the Oetztal Alps
Image gallery: Palla Bianca
The Palla Bianca (3,739 m a.s.l. - Weisskugel in German) is a mountain rising along the border of South Tyrol (Italy) and North Tyrol (Austria).
The high-Alpine glacier tour on the Palla Bianca can be started from the Val Venosta, that is to say either from Mazia near Malles, from Valle Lunga, or from Maso Corto in Val Senales, the latter is the shortest ascent. When you scale this summit from Valle Lunga you pass the Rif. Pio XI (2,544 m a.s.l.), providing a great view on the glaciers of the Oetztal Alps, and also on the Palla Bianca. Worth noticing is the Glacier Trail in this area, which has been established several years ago. By the way, from the mountain hut you can also scale other mountains such as the Monte Schmied (3,170 m a.s.l.) or the Cima del Lago Bianco (3,532 m a.s.l.).
The breathtaking view from the Palla Bianca is one of the most comprehensive of this area and ranges from the Bern and Wallis Alps via the Rhaetian Alps and the Ortles Alps to the Brenta Dolomites, the Dolomites and the Grossglockner, the "King of the East Alps". In late spring, the Palla Bianca is a popular destination for those who love ski touring.
