Ötztal Alps: A Majestic Alpine Wonderland
Explore the majestic Ötztal Alps: hiking, skiing, glaciers, and the fascinating story of Ötzi the Iceman.
The Ötztal Alps, straddling Austria and Italy, offer a stunning landscape of towering peaks, glaciers, and picturesque valleys. Renowned for hiking, skiing, and the discovery of Ötzi the Iceman, this region promises outdoor adventures and breathtaking scenery.
A brief summary to Ötztal Alps
- Schnals, Autonomous Province of Bolzano – South Tyrol, IT
Local tips
- Purchase the Ötztal Summer Card for free access to cable cars, public transport, and attractions during the summer months.
- Check the weather forecast before heading out, as conditions in the mountains can change rapidly.
- Wear sturdy hiking boots and appropriate clothing, as trails can be rocky and the weather can be unpredictable.
- Visit the Ötzi Village in Umhausen to learn about the life and times of the famous Iceman.
- Take advantage of the well-developed public transportation system to explore the valley and access trailheads.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Ötztal-Bahnhof, the main transportation hub, take a public bus (Ötztaler Verkehrsgesellschaft) that runs frequently to various towns and villages within the Ötztal Alps. Buses operate approximately every half hour, providing easy access to trailheads and ski resorts. A single journey from Ötztal-Bahnhof to Sölden, for example, takes about 1 hour and costs between €8-€12. Consider purchasing the Ötztal Summer Card for free use of public buses during the summer season.
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Driving
From Innsbruck, take the A12 Inntal Autobahn to the Ötztal exit. Follow the main road (B186) into the valley, which provides access to all major towns and attractions. Be aware that parking in popular areas like Sölden and Obergurgl can be limited and may require payment. Parking fees vary, with some areas offering daily rates around €4. The drive from Ötztal-Bahnhof to Sölden takes approximately 34 minutes.
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Cable Car
To reach higher elevations and specific attractions, utilize the numerous cable cars operating throughout the Ötztal Alps. From Sölden, the Giggijochbahn and Gaislachkoglbahn offer access to popular hiking and skiing areas. A single uphill and downhill ride on the Acherkogelbahn in Oetz costs €26 for adults. The Schnalstal Glacier Cable Car, accessible from Maso Corto/Kurzras, provides access to high-alpine trails in the southern Ötztal Alps. Consider purchasing a Summer Card for one free ascent and descent per cable car per day.
Discover more about Ötztal Alps
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Ötztal Alps
0.0 km
Explore the majestic Ötztal Alps: hiking, skiing, glaciers, and the fascinating story of Ötzi the Iceman.
Oetztal Alps
2.7 km
Discover the majestic Ötztal Alps: where glaciers meet towering peaks, and ancient history merges with thrilling outdoor adventures in Tyrol.
Iceman Ötzi Peak
9.6 km
Explore the stunning Iceman Ötzi Peak in the Alps, where breathtaking views and rich history meet in a perfect outdoor adventure.
Gasthof / Schutzhaus Schöne Aussicht
10.3 km
Experience the breathtaking views and authentic local cuisine at Gasthof / Schutzhaus Schöne Aussicht, the perfect alpine retreat in South Tyrol.
The Crystal VAYA Unique
13.9 km
Experience luxury and convenience at The Crystal VAYA Unique in Obergurgl, offering ski-in/ski-out access and stunning alpine views.
Königskogel
14.6 km
Experience unparalleled panoramic views of the Ötztal Alps from the majestic Königskogel, a challenging and rewarding hike near Sölden, Tyrol.
Stockkogel
14.7 km
Hike or climb Stockkogel for panoramic views of the Ötztal Alps, near Sölden, Tyrol, Austria.
La Vimea
15.0 km
Experience tranquility and wellness at La Vimea, an eco-friendly hotel in Naturno, South Tyrol, featuring organic dining, a hot bedstone spa, and yoga retreats.
Tiefenbachbahn Talstation
16.7 km
Ascend to the Tiefenbach Glacier with Sölden's Tiefenbachbahn for panoramic views of the Ötztal Alps and access to year-round adventures.
Ötztal Glacier Road
16.9 km
Experience the thrill of driving on the second-highest paved road in Europe, with stunning views of the Austrian Alps and glaciers.
SCHLOSS PLARS. wine & suites
16.9 km
Discover the enchanting SCHLOSS PLARS, a historic castle hotel surrounded by vineyards in South Tyrol, offering luxury and breathtaking views.
Black Schneid mountain station
16.9 km
Reach the top of the Ötztal Alps for panoramic views and access to Austria's longest ski run in the heart of the Sölden ski resort.
TOP Hotel Hochgurgl
17.0 km
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Top Mountain Crosspoint Restaurant
17.9 km
Experience alpine dining at its finest in Hochgurgl, with panoramic views, delicious cuisine, and Europe's highest motorcycle museum at Top Mountain Crosspoint.
Gletscherskigebiet Sölden
18.1 km
Experience year-round skiing and stunning panoramic views at Sölden's glacier ski area, home to the BIG3 peaks and 007 Elements.
Unmissable attractions to see
archeoParc Schnalstal - Ötzi Museum
7.6 km
Explore the fascinating world of Ötzi, the Iceman, at the archeoParc Schnalstal, an interactive museum that brings prehistoric life to vibrant reality.
Parco Naturale Gruppo di Tessa
9.5 km
Explore the stunning Parco Naturale Gruppo di Tessa, a wildlife refuge in South Tyrol, Italy, offering breathtaking landscapes and diverse outdoor activities.
Meraner Höhenweg
11.5 km
Discover the Meraner Höhenweg, a breathtaking hiking area in South Tyrol with stunning views and diverse trails for every adventurer.
Schwarzkögele
12.6 km
Explore Schwarzkögele, the ultimate hiking destination in Soelden, where breathtaking trails and stunning alpine views await every adventurer.
Kesselwandspitze
12.9 km
Experience the stunning Kesselwandspitze in the Austrian Alps, a breathtaking hiking area perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Partschins Waterfall
12.9 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and tranquility of Partschins Waterfall in South Tyrol, a perfect escape for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Cascata di Parcines
13.0 km
Explore the breathtaking Cascata di Parcines, a stunning waterfall in South Tyrol, perfect for hiking and nature lovers seeking adventure.
Granatenkogel
13.1 km
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Hängebrücke Gurgler Ache
13.9 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Hängebrücke Gurgler Ache, a stunning suspension bridge offering panoramic views in the heart of the Ötztal Alps.
Juval Castle
13.9 km
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Tscharser Waalweg
14.1 km
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Weingut Unterortl - Castel Juval
14.2 km
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St. Prokulus Kirchlein
14.9 km
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Museo di San Procolo
14.9 km
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Königsjoch
15.4 km
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Essential places to dine
Landgasthaus Langwies
14.5 km
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Gasthaus Bergstation St.Martin im Kofel
16.0 km
Experience authentic South Tyrolean cuisine amid breathtaking alpine views at Gasthaus Bergstation St.Martin im Kofel.
Kuppelrain
16.5 km
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Restaurant Untergandlkeller
17.7 km
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Schlosswirt FORST
18.2 km
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Restaurant Pizzeria Latscher Stube
18.3 km
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Matscher Alm
18.3 km
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Jausenstation Knofelkeller KG
19.0 km
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Almhotel Glieshof
19.1 km
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Landhotel Latscherhof
19.5 km
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Speckeggele
19.7 km
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Bratkartoffelhütte
19.8 km
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Bierkeller
19.8 km
Experience authentic South Tyrolean cuisine at Bierkeller in Latsch – where tradition meets flavor in every dish.
Café Restaurant Patriarch
19.9 km
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FALCON À-la-Carte-Restaurant
20.2 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Bergführerstelle Vent
9.4 km
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Sport 2000 Venter Kaufhäusl
9.8 km
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Vinschger Bauernladen Schnalstal
14.5 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and fresh produce at Vinschger Bauernladen Schnalstal in the stunning Val Venosta, South Tyrol.
Moser Speckworld
15.1 km
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DESPAR-Kofler Georg Anton
18.0 km
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Weltladen Latsch
18.1 km
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Herilu Shoppingland
18.1 km
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Lidl
18.1 km
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Forst Shop
18.2 km
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PapierPlus
18.5 km
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ALGO Shopping Center
19.0 km
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Pirpamer & Co. O.H.G.
19.7 km
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Ladurner Sport- und Freizeitmode
19.7 km
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BASIS Vinschgau Venosta
20.3 km
Experience innovation and collaboration at BASIS Vinschgau Venosta, the premier coworking space and convention center in South Tyrol.
GEOS
20.5 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Nederhütte
12.1 km
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Fassl Bar
13.0 km
Experience the warmth of Fassl Bar in Obergurgl, a perfect spot for après-ski relaxation and local flavors.
Alpen-Wellness Resort Hochfirst
13.7 km
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TOP Mountain Star
16.8 km
Discover the perfect blend of stunning Alpine views and exquisite dining at TOP Mountain Star in Hochgurgl, Austria.
Schirmbar
17.3 km
Discover the charm of Schirmbar in Gurgl, where stunning mountain views meet a cozy atmosphere perfect for relaxation and socializing.
Bar Barfuss
17.9 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and diverse offerings at Bar Barfuss in Algund, the ultimate bar experience for tourists in South Tyrol.
Brauerei Forst
18.1 km
Discover the best of South Tyrol with exquisite craft beers and traditional cuisine at Brauerei Forst in Lagundo.
Braugarten Giardino Forst all'aperto
18.1 km
Discover Lagundo's Braugarten Giardino Forst: A perfect blend of local cuisine, stunning views, and a vibrant beer garden atmosphere.
Sahnestüberl
18.3 km
Experience the authentic flavors of Tyrol at Sahnestüberl, a beloved restaurant in Zwieselstein offering local cuisine and breathtaking views.
Biergarten Tirol
19.4 km
Discover the best of South Tyrolean culture and cuisine at Biergarten Tirol, a charming beer garden perfect for relaxation and indulgence.
Die Weinbar
19.8 km
Discover the exquisite wines of South Tyrol at Die Weinbar, where tradition meets a cozy atmosphere in the heart of Tirol.
Taka Tuka
20.0 km
Discover Taka Tuka in Schlanders, where vibrant atmosphere meets exquisite drinks for an unforgettable bar experience.
Gigis Bar
21.1 km
Experience the vibrant ambiance and delightful offerings of Gigi's Bar, a modern hotspot on Merano's scenic Passeggiata Lungo Passirio.
Forsterbräu Meran
21.4 km
Experience the essence of South Tyrolean culture at Forsterbräu Meran, where tradition meets flavor in every dish and brew.
Palm Lounge
21.4 km
Experience the charm of Merano at Palm Lounge, a serene bar and lounge offering exquisite drinks and a cozy atmosphere.