From the mountain hamlet of Platten, a rewarding hike leads up to the Sambock, the local mountain of Pfalzen and also one of the most beautiful vantage points on the edge of the Pfunderer mountain range. Following well-maintained paths, the route initially winds through gentle alpine pastureland and across the wide plateau up to the summit. Just beyond the simple summit cross, a breathtaking 360-degree view unfolds over the Puster Valley, the numerous mountains towering all around – including, for example, the Eidechsspitze, the Hochfeiler, the Windschar, the Dürrenstein and the Astjoch – as well as the Zillertal Alps. With its varied trails, peaceful woodland sections, open alpine meadows and magnificent views, the hike up the Sambock is one of the most charming mountain walks in the Bruneck area.
From the car park, follow trail marker 66A and the signs for “Sambock”. The trail, which is steep in parts, leads initially through the forest, past a hunting lodge, to the tree line, and then up across grassy and heathland slopes to the “Platte” hilltop at 2,175m. From here, the trail continues northwards, over the grassy ridge to the summit. The descent follows the same route as the ascent.
Alternative for experienced hikers with sure-footedness: follow the dot markings (Pfunderer Höhenweg) and descend the north ridge – which is partially secured with wire ropes – into a hollow, from where you hike back to the starting point on the western side via the Plattner alp hut.
From Bruneck, follow the SP40 towards Pfalzen (about 5 km). At the roundabout, turn right onto Michael Pacher Straße and then left onto Sichelburgstraße. After about 400 m, at the junction, turn left onto Plattner Straße and follow it for about 8 km to the car park in Platten (1,600 m), where the walk begins.