Virgen is often referred to as the "Meran of East Tirol" in reference to the town of Meran over the border in South Tirol, famous for its palm trees and almost Mediterranean climate. It is the largest settlement in the Virgental Valley, a quiet mountain valley bordering the Hohe Tauern National Park.
Virgen lies at 1,200 metres above sea level in the heart of this valley to the south of the mighty Venediger Mountains, many of which stretch over 3,000 m into the sky. Centuries-old churches, the ruins of Rabenstein Castle from the 12th century and the large number of traditional farmhouses indicate the long history of this settlement today home to almost 2,200 inhabitants. Other attractions in the village centre worth visiting are the Gasthof Neuwirt with its eye-catching mini turret and elaborately painted facades as well as the Tertiar Sisters Convent. During the warm summer months, outdoor enthusiasts come to this region to explore the mountains and huts or hike up to the glaciers of the Venediger Mountains. Less experienced walkers can try the "Weg der Sinne" (Senses Trail) in the valley. In winter there are winter hiking trails as well as the small Fellachlift ski lift in the village and the resort of Kals-Matrei near the Großglockner, Austria’s highest mountain.
Virgen lies at 1,200 metres above sea level in the heart of this valley to the south of the mighty Venediger Mountains, many of which stretch over…
