‘Irrigation channels’ are old, artificially created waterways that are still used today in some areas to water the fields and meadows. In order to maintain and look after these irrigation channels properly, narrow trails were formed, from where the irrigation channels can be directed. With the invention of these artificial waterways, a new job description came into being: the so-called ‘waaler’. He ensured that the irrigation channels worked properly and that the distribution of the rare resource was fair and equal. The paths running along the old irrigation channels are now quite popular as hiking and walking trails. There are quite a lot of these irrigation channels all around the country, particularly in the Meraner Land. The renowned Algund Irrigation channel is one of the most beautiful hiking trails in South Tyrol and offers great panoramic views.

The following is an overview of various irrigation channel routes in the Meraner Land.