Mountain Summer in Ötztal: More Adventure. More Relaxation. More Holidays.

It's not that easy to fulfill all holiday wishes in a single vacation. Different tastes and preferences when it comes to planning a holiday: some focus on stamina training for entire months before they conquer glacier paths and trekking routes, others are dreaming of precipitous rock climbing walls and via ferrata routes as far as their eyes reach. The youngest ones want to visit cows, calves, sheep and horses in their natural environs on lush green pasturelands where rest and relaxation are the order of the day. Other family members are looking for the best well-being heaven. What do they all have in common? They are passionate nature lovers and mountain aficionados. They are in search of excitement and relaxation at the same time, coupled with cultural highlights.

The 67 kilometer long Ötztal boasts not only Tirol's highest Alpine summits but also a huge choice of activities in the mountains and on the valley floor – there are loads of attractions for all preferences and pocket books.

Unlimited walking and mountain exploration

Goethe already knew: "Mountains cannot be surmounted except by winding paths." The Ötztal makes a perfect place to do so! Here you discover all facets of mountain exploration. Leisurely walkers enjoy a stroll through lush green meadows and historical water ways. Individual hikers and families can choose from incredible 1600 kilometers of signposted walking trails and mountain paths. A rest stop and a hearty snack at one of the quaint mountain huts and inns are an absolute must. Varied high Alpine landscapes, breathtaking rock formations and gently rolling meadows invite summer vacationers to experience culture, enjoy culinary delights and unique nature exploration. The focus is always on the Ötztaler Ache mountain brook with all its different facets, just as varied as Ötztal’s scenic landscape. Wild and fierce, calm and silent, authentic and full of peace!

For example, the ÖTZTALER URWEG in 12 stages crisscrosses the valley and its mountain brooks and Alpine meadows stretching up to high-altitude vantage spots. It winds its way like a ribbon through holiday villages on the valley floor and wildly romantic mountain hamlets on the sunny side. The splendid trail takes passionate hikers from the lower entrance to the valley, embedded  in sun-kissed and flower-strewn meadows, up to Austria’s highest parish church village at 1930 m. The less sporty who prefer a more relaxing pace are recommended to enjoy a comfy mountain gondola ride or take one of the hiking shuttle buses running throughout the Ötztal (both are free of charge for holders of the ÖTZTAL PREMIUM CARD).

The full flow: BIKE REPUBLIC SÖLDEN

The Ötztal has become a popular “nation on two wheels” for locals and guests alike. It is also the home of Laura Stigger - several time XC bike and road bike Junior World Champion. The Ötztaler Cycle Marathon ranks among the epic race bike events while the BIKE REPUBLIC SÖLDEN is one of the most extraordinary mountain biking areas. Of course, Ötztal’s cycling initiatives continue also in 2019. The Ötztal is one of the most renowned and also most passionate mountain bike destinations in the Alps. A truly varied offer is waiting for MTB aficionados on the valley floor and in the mountains, on the road and on the mountain trails – coupled with excellent infrastructures and  extraordinary commitment: for example, free bicycle transport in public buses, perfectly signposted tours and well-maintained lines as well as the expansion of the valley-wide cycle trail away from the busy traffic routes. The BIKE REPUBLIC SÖLDEN – probably the world’s funniest and most welcoming Republic - will also feature new highlights in 2019. The flowing GAHE LINE is the nation's ninth man-made route (in addition to the 15 natural trails) and winds its way on 7.6 kilometers across the Alpine slopes. The entire area surrounding Gaislachkogl and Giggijoch mountain gondolas attracts mountain bikers of all skill levels: beginners head for the leisurely surfing routes, freeriders try the more rocky variants like the high Alpine OLLWEITE LINE, enduro fans can choose from made to measure routes and tour bikers indulge into the awe-inspiring scenery of the Ötztal Alps.

Two-wheeled historical gems

Europe's highest motorcycle museum, a state-of-the-art mountain gondola terminal, a toll road station located on the popular Timmelsjoch High Alpine Pass Road, and a stylish restaurant – the unrivaled Top Mountain Crosspoint of Hochgurgl has it all. Also one of the most precious vintage motorbike collections comprising about 230 exhibits is on display at the Top Mountain Motorcycle Museum which promises wondering eyes. Special exhibitions are scheduled on a regular basis. An absolute must not only for classic motorbike aficionados!

Adventures and thrills in a row

"Vertical challenges" await daredevils in Ötztal's 20 rock climbing areas featuring about 750 routes, on varied via ferrata tours and in the white waters of Ötztaler Ache brook, one of central Europe's most frequented river sections. Outdoor adventures in a row! But there is much more – such as the AREA 47 (free admission to the WATER AREA for ÖTZTAL PREMIUM CARD holders) and its full range of high-tech outdoor activities coupled with superb nature exploration. You'll find this activity paradise, covering 6.5 hectares, at the entrance to Ötztal: be it fun-filled water sports, outdoor activities, climbing routes or Western Austria's first wakeboard ramp, the ultimate adrenalin rush is absolutely guaranteed on the 47th parallel which is also renowned for its gastronomy highlights and business incentive events.

Hiking fun for the youngest guests

Charming WIDI, the funny mountain sheep mascot, takes young holiday makers to the most scenic spots of Ötztal in a playful way. For example, to the new WIDIVERSUM adventure world and the hidden magic crystal in the family-friendly Hochoetz Pasture Region where also supervised child activity programs are scheduled. Among the undisputed highlights ranks the KIDS PARK mining playground in Oetz, where climbing, balancing, sliding, swinging and digging for gold are on the program. Brand-new WIDIVERSUM attraction: "WIDIs Movie Shuttle" - the futuristic 5D multimedia simulator offers fascinating experiences for all senses. In the trendy cinema hall with ten seats and a 180-degree screen you will be the protagonist of a rapid chase. The story centers on the WIDIVERSUM Family Adventure World and on WIDI and his friends searching for the Magic Crystal stolen by the wolf.

Urkraft und Almzeit – Themed adventures for all the family

"Urkraft Umhausen" symbolizes four marvelous places of interest you should visit during your Ötztal summer vacation: an idyllic swimming lake, Tirol's biggest waterfall - the Stuiben Falls, the Ötzi Village giving an insight into the Neolithic period, and the nearby Birds of Prey Park with great shows performed by eagles, falcons and kites. Families shouldn't miss out on the splendid ALMZEIT theme hiking trails in Sölden, boasting wonderful attractions, great surprises and interactive play stations providing many details about varied Alpine landscapes, pasturelands and culinary delicacies served on Sölden's mountain huts and Alpine inns.

Ötztal's mountainscape as a giant movie screen

Not only Daniel Craig alias James Bond was enthusiastic about the Ötztal as a backdrop for the latest Agent 007 blockbuster "Spectre" - some of the most fabulous winter scenes were shot in Sölden. Therefore the production team, in collaboration with Bergbahnen Sölden, decided to install a permanent exhibition dedicated to the famous Agent 007. In the 2018 summer, a unique James Bond Adventure World - 007 ELEMENTS - will open its doors at above 3000 meters altitude, right next to the ice Q gourmet restaurant. Several galleries on two floors take visitors inside the peak of Gaislachkogl and the most spectacular "Spectre" scenes, focusing also on all classic signature elements of the other 23 James Bond movies. The installation stands for an immersive, interactive, and educational experience that places visitors inside the world of 007 while revealing how that world is made. As one of only four official James Bond Exhibitions world-wide, Ötztal's Cinematic Installation will attract people from around the globe due to its eye-catching architecture and high Alpine location.

Of course, there are also more silent productions like a unique hiking theater and open-air play full of magic moments: "Friedl of the Empty Pockets" takes spectators on a hiking tour from Vent to Marzell Glacier, a journey of 600 years back in time to the Tirolean history. Absolutely "live" and on original sites hikers can follow the escape of Tirol's banned Archduke Friedrich IV – nicknamed Friedl of the Empty Pockets – through the Ötztal towards Meran, dating back to 1416. Actors in historical costumes perform amid the wide open Alpine landscape of the rear Ötztal, which has remained the same over the last centuries. The hike to Martin-Busch-Hütte and back again takes about six hours (next performance: from 05 to 15 September 2019).

Where mind and body feel at ease

Adventurous Ötztal also has its silent and relaxing side. Soothing warmth and healing waters are the unparalleled slogan of the AQUA DOME Spa Center - Tirol Therme Längenfeld, as well included in the ÖTZTAL PREMIUM CARD. Health-promoting thermal waters can be enjoyed in picture-book surroundings: outdoor spa pools on stilts are only one of the many architectural highlights of Austria's probably most beautiful thermal spa center. The superb sauna parlor adds to a holistic experience for body, soul and mind while the youngest guests have endless fun in the brand-new kids' water world. On hot summer days, idyllic Piburger See – Tirol's warmest natural swimming lake – awaits water fans of all ages high above the village of Oetz. Escape from everyday routine by diving into the truly refreshing Alpine waters.

Media Contact

Sarah Ennemoser

sarah.ennemoser@oetztal.com

T +43 (0) 57200 217  F +43 (0) 57200 201

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