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Climbing Austria

Q: Which climbing region is the right one for me

Even without knowing you, the answer is confidently: Ötztal - one of the most varied climbing regions in Austria. Tirol’s longest side valley boasts an enormous density of climbing spots at all difficulty degrees, ranging from limestone rocks at the entrance to the valley to grippy granite rock and ice climbing on frozen waterfalls. Family-friendly climbing gardens and via ferrata routes pave the way for everyone who wants to give climbing a try, several multi-pitch routes and high-altitude tours challenge ambitious sport and Alpine climbers.

Q: What do climbers do in bad weather?

Bad weather alternatives that have the potential to be "first choice". You can enjoy climbing fun and the opportunity to improve your skills in the huge, World Cup-tested climbing and bouldering hall in the nearby district capital of Imst, as well as in Austria's largest outdoor park, der AREA 47. Here at the entrance to the valley, a rain-protected bridge pillar comprising a lead climbing area, a high ropes course and a bouldering cave on the landscaped lake are waiting for you. Smaller indoor climbing walls in Haiming, Oetz and Sölden complete the varied offer.

When climbers' dreams meet granite

Hard, harder, Ötztal: the solid granite rock in Tirol's longest side valley lets climbing fans enthusiastically dig deep into their chalk bag. At the valley entrance near Haiming, some limestone areas bring variety to the fingertips. There are a total of 750 routes that let you conquer the walls in Ötztal, no matter if you start smoothly like Spiderman or want to unleash your climbing talent first.

Ingenious routes for experts and newbies

Two of the five most ingenious sport climbing routes for experts on the rock are can be found in Ötztal. This was the opinion of a jury, which assessed criteria such as nature and landscape experience, route, rock texture, physical and mental demands on climbers. The route “Le Miracle” (7b) in Niederthai and the multi-faceted “Weißer Riese” (6b) climbing in the Nösslach climbing garden are therefore on the to-do list for ambitious climbers in Ötztal. Followed by some challenging multi-pitch routes, for example at Burgsteinwand near Längenfeld or Engelswand near Tumpen.

If one pitch is enough for you in one of the 20 climbing gardens or if you prefer to be on one of the 8 continuously secured via ferrata, just go ahead! The climbing gardens in Oberried and Tumpen offer ideal conditions for both beginners and families. The via ferrata along the Stuiben Falls - Tirol's biggest waterfall - presents a spectacular landscape. Accompanied by the roaring water masses, young and old work their way up the very well secured path over stepped terrain. Special step aids make the ascent easier. Längenfeld’s Lehner Wasserfall via ferrata of intermediate difficulty combines rock and water experiences in an ingenious way

All about climbing in Ötztal

That’s the Spirit

Climbing competence meets camaraderie

In addition to the variety of routes, Ötztal offers a complete host of offers for climbers, ranging from certified local climbing & mountain guides to specialized climbing accommodations. Because for a day of climbing in the Ötztal Alps you have to be well rested, full of energy and perfectly equipped. Several via ferrata rental equipment options and Ötztal’s sports shops provide you with the necessary material - look forward to personal advice and useful insider tips from the Ötztal hosts who are fanatic about climbing. By the way, safety always comes first!

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Frequently asked questions about climbing in Austria

Even without knowing you, the answer is confidently: Ötztal - one of the most varied climbing regions in Austria. Tirol’s longest side valley boasts an enormous density of climbing spots at all difficulty degrees, ranging from limestone rocks at the entrance to the valley to grippy granite rock and ice climbing on frozen waterfalls. Family-friendly climbing gardens and via ferrata routes pave the way for everyone who wants to give climbing a try, several multi-pitch routes and high-altitude tours challenge ambitious sport and Alpine climbers.

If the motivation is right: yes, of course! A few days spent in Ötztal won't turn you into a new Adam Ondra or a second Angy Eiter, but that's not the point. It’s more essential that you internalize the basic climbing techniques, have your successful moments on the rock wall and, above all, enjoy this form of movement (and attitude to life!). Countless scenic via ferratas and climbing gardens suitable for beginners form the perfect playground for the very first attempts on the rock. Experienced climbing guides will show you how to handle the equipment correctly by ensuring also your safety. What’s best, you can rent all the equipment and wind down in quality-sealed climbing accommodations.

Bad weather alternatives that have the potential to be "first choice". You can enjoy climbing fun and the opportunity to improve your skills in the huge, World Cup-tested climbing and bouldering hall in the nearby district capital of Imst, as well as in Austria's largest outdoor park, der AREA 47. Here at the entrance to the valley, a rain-protected bridge pillar comprising a lead climbing area, a high ropes course and a bouldering cave on the landscaped lake are waiting for you. Smaller indoor climbing walls in Haiming, Oetz and Sölden complete the varied offer.