Mühlendorf Gschnitz: A Journey Through Time
Experience Tyrolean heritage at Gschnitz Mill Village: working watermills, artisan workshops, and the stunning Sandes Waterfall. A living museum in the Alps.
Mühlendorf Gschnitz, nestled in the Gschnitztal Valley, provides a captivating journey into Tyrol's rich heritage. This meticulously reconstructed village offers an immersive glimpse into 19th and 20th-century Tyrolean life. The village is more than just a static display; it's a living museum where visitors can witness the ingenuity and craftsmanship of a bygone era. The heart of Mühlendorf Gschnitz lies in its collection of working watermills. Powered by the Sandesbach brook, these mills demonstrate the vital role of waterpower in traditional industries. Visitors can observe the intricate mechanisms of a grain mill. Beyond the mills, the village features artisan workshops, including a blacksmith's forge, showcasing traditional crafts such as woodworking and weaving. The village's location at the foot of the Sandes Waterfall adds another layer of appeal. A bridge spans the gorge, allowing visitors to experience the power of the water up close. Inhaling the aerosols from the waterfall is believed to have health benefits. The village was created using historical plans, ancient handicraft techniques, and original materials, ensuring authenticity and preserving Tyrolean traditions. The Mühlendorf Gschnitz is open from mid-May to early October. Guided tours are available upon request, offering an in-depth exploration of the village's history and exhibits. Special events are held throughout the season, providing unique cultural experiences. **Please note**: At the beginning of July 2025, the Gschnitz Mill Village was almost completely destroyed by a mudflow during a thunderstorm and cannot currently be visited. Details about the re-opening will follow asap.
Local tips
- Combine your visit with a hike to the Lapones Mountain Hut, reachable from the parking area in about an hour.
- Visit the Sandes Waterfall and its 40-meter-long bridge over the gorge.
- Check the Mühlendorf Gschnitz website for special events and demonstrations.
A brief summary to Mühlendorf Gschnitz
- Gschnitz 131, Gschnitz, 6150, AT
- +436642364917
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-6 pm
- Thursday 10 am-6 pm
- Friday 10 am-6 pm
- Saturday 10 am-6 pm
- Sunday 10 am-6 pm
Getting There
-
Public Transport
From Innsbruck, take the train (S3 or S4) to Steinach am Brenner. From the Steinach train station, take Postbus line 4146 to the 'Gschnitz Gh Feuerstein' bus stop. The Mühlendorf Gschnitz is a short walk from the bus stop. A single bus fare costs approximately €4-6. The Wipptal Guest Card includes free travel on local trains and buses.
-
Driving
From Steinach am Brenner, follow the B182 towards Gschnitztal. Continue through Trins and Gschnitz to Obertal. The Mühlendorf Gschnitz is located near the Gasthof Feuerstein. Parking is available behind the Gasthof Feuerstein for a fee. Overnight parking is €20.
-
Walking
From the 'Gschnitz Gh Feuerstein' bus stop or the parking area, walk back along the road for approximately 3 minutes. The Mühlendorf Gschnitz will be on your right, just below the Sandes Waterfall. Follow the signs to the entrance.