Alpbach has some of the strictest building regulations in Tirol in order to preserve its beautiful traditional appearance. It also hosts the internationally renowned European Forum Alpbach.
The winding road connecting the village of Alpbach to the Inntal Valley was built less than a century ago. Prior to this breakthrough, the “Aibecka“ – as the inhabitants of Alpbach refer to themselves in their unmistakable local dialect – were more or less cut off from the outside world. It should, therefore, come as no surprise that in this far-flung corner of Tirol they are still hugely proud of their independence.
Strict planning rules from the 1950s mean that Alpbach has retained the traditional charm of an authentic Tirolean farming village. Its residents still call it the “most beautiful village in Austria” in a reference to a title it was once awarded in the 1980s. Yet, despite its very conservative approach to planning permission, Alpbach has been a hub of cutting-edge debate since the creation of the European Forum Alpbach 70 years ago. This annual gathering draws experts and decision-makers from around the world to this quiet corner of Tirol for speeches, debates and workshops on economics and politics. What better backdrop for a little deep thinking?
The winding road connecting the village of Alpbach to the Inntal Valley was built less than a century ago. Prior to this breakthrough, the…
