Hiking holiday Austria
You have really been only where you have walked
The next hiking holiday in Austria is way overdue? Then go and visit the longest side valley in Tirol! 1600 kilometers of hiking trails, climbs and paths want to get under your hiking feet in Ötztal. More than 100 alpine pastures and mountain huts provide culinary refreshment, while 12 mountain lifts take you effortlessly into the mountains. Here we present all the possibilities the valley offers for hiking holidays.
Sometimes it's not that easy to motivate the kids to go hiking. But this is not the case when there is so much to discover to the right and left of the walking route. Just like along the family-friendly theme trails that can be found throughout the valley. The exciting and naturally staged offer ranges from A for Apple Mile to Z for zest for life.
Far and even further beyond borders: If a day hike is not enough or you cannot stay in one place for long, we recommend the varied long-distance hiking options within Ötztal. For instance, Ötztaler Urweg loops about 180 km through the entire valley, while the Ötztal Trek leads one level higher to the alpine summit regions. Long-distanThe E5 European long-distance hiking trail bursts all limits anyway.
In the valley of 250 three thousand meter high peaks, ambitious hikers and alpinists certainly won't be missing the right tour destination. At the very top of the "I have to go up there" list is Wildspitze at 3768 m, North Tirol's highest mountain. Experienced and certified mountain guides or instructors accompany you on the stony (or snow-covered) paths to the summit cross.
If you love the view of Ötztal's awe-inspiring mountain world from above, but less the ascent there, you don't have to worry at all. Because in the summer months 12 mountain gondolas and lifts are in operation, and they comfortably whisk you to the top. Countless enjoyable hikes lead from the top stations right into the high alpine landscape. Special tip: the Ötztal Inside Summer Card comprises free use of all 12 summer mountain lifts within the valley.
Even more good reasons for hiking holidays in Ötztal
- Nomen est omen: the mountaineering village of Vent in upper Ötztal is an ideal base camp for anyone aiming high
- Certified: hiking villages of Gries and Niederthai, awarded the Austrian hiking quality seal
- Spoiled for choice: 100 huts and alpine pastures for refreshment stops
- Where nothing is left to be desired: specialized hiking accommodations
- Because they know what they are doing: mountain guides & hiking instructors
- Very easy: book your hiking adventure directly online in the Adventure Shop
Frequently asked questions about hiking holidays in Austria
Insiders already know the answer: get ready for Tirol in Ötztal! Thanks to 1600 km of hiking trails of all difficulty levels and 250 peaks higher than three thousand meters, scenic Ötztal is one giant hiking paradise. No matter if you are looking for family-friendly hut tours, themed trails, loop hikes or demanding alpine tours and long-distance hikes lasting several days such as Ötztaler Urweg. 12 modern summer mountain lifts, guided hiking programs and certified mountain guides will help you on your way to the top. Some 100 rustic alpine pastures and mountain huts invite you to stop by. Some can also be easily reached by road or mountain lift, therefore an enjoyable mountain experience is accessible to everyone. Special hiking accommodations and designated hiking or mountaineering villages make Ötztal the first choice for hiking holidays in Austria.
First things first: sturdy hiking boots. Hiking shoes that are adapted to your feet and the difficulty level of the hike form the basis of a beautiful day on the mountain. High alpine tours require a higher shaft to protect the ankles. Additionally, you need suitable socks and preferably zip-off hiking pants in order to be flexibly prepared for quickly changing temperatures. Breathable, quick-drying functional clothing and a warm jacket as well as wind and rain protection are also part of the basic equipment, because the weather can change rapidly in the Ötztal mountains. Gloves and a hat also do a good job, especially at the end of the day. For your head you can choose from a hat, headband, peaked cap or trekking hat, depending on the weather and the intensity of your tour.
In addition to appropriate clothing, you need a backpack with a drinking bottle, snacks and enough to drink, hiking map, first-aid kit, sunscreen (also for the lips), sunglasses, mobile phone, headlamp and handkerchiefs. Of course, the packing list will be significantly longer if you are planning a multi-day hut tour in Ötztal instead of a half-day hike. Adjustable hiking poles complete the basic equipment, which you can have put together in Ötztal's expert sports shops.
In addition to the right footwear, you need the right socks and, ideally, zip-off hiking pants to be flexibly prepared for quickly changing temperatures. Breathable, quick-drying functional clothing and a warm jacket as well as wind and rain protection are also part of the basic equipment, because the weather can change quickly in the Ötztal mountains. Gloves and a hat also do a good job, especially at the end of the day. For your head you can choose from a hat, headband, peaked cap or trekking hat - depending on the weather and the intensity of your tour. The expert sports shops in Ötztal will be happy to advise you on choosing the right clothing and equipment.
For example to Ötztal, Tirol's longest side valley in western Austria. Here your four-legged friend not only has enough opportunities to run around (there are more than 1600 km of hiking trails and climbs available) but also 12 summer mountain lifts that transport dogs. Additionally, in our accommodation list you can filter specifically for hotels, guesthouses or apartments where dogs are allowed.