East Tirol has several hundred climbing routes, many in the limestone mountains of the Lienz Dolomites and the granite peaks of the Hohe Tauern Mountains.
The climbing area next to the Kreithof guesthouse near Tristach has an incredible 200 routes catering for all abilities. Families in particular will enjoy the newly opened Klettergarten Rabantkofel near Nörsach with many well-secured routes. East Tirol also has a diverse range of via ferrata fixed-rope cimbing routes. On hot days one of the best places to cool off is in one of the region's gorges such as the Galitzenklamm. Those in search of spectacular views will find what they are looking for on the Glödis-Klettersteig via ferrata, which takes climbers all the way up to 3,200 metres above sea level – and has majestic views of Austria's highest mountain, the Großglockner.
Sport climbing in East Tirol
Offering several hundred climbing routes, East Tirol is a haven for climbing enthusiasts. The Klettergarten Kreithof near Tristach has around 200 routes rated from 3 to 8 on the international difficulty scale. The area around the Dolomitenhütte hut is also popular, albeit mainly with experienced climbers. The Rabantkofel area is good for families and beginners.
All sport climbing routes at a glance
Multi-pitch climbing routes in East Tirol
The Laserz mountain is home to several multi-pitch climbing routes, all of which are relatively difficult. The routes on the southern face of the mountain are for experts only. Among the most popular multi-pitch climbing routes is the one leading up onto the Kleine Gamswiesenspitze mountain (difficulty rating of 4). The climbs to the Kleine and Große Teplitzer Spitze are good for those with a head for heights. And, last but not least, the climbing on the Roter Turm is tough but rewarding (rating: 8 to 9+).
All multi-pitch climbing routes at a glance
Via ferrata climbing routes in East Tirol
The Lienz Dolomites in particular have many via ferrata climbing routes. Highlights include the Galitzenklamm via ferrata passing thundering waterfalls and the more challenging via ferrata through the Pirknerklamm gorge. The Glödis-Klettersteig via ferrata leads up onto the summit of the Glödis mountain at 3,206m but does not require expert climbing skills and is therefore suitable for climbers with a little experience. Those in search of a special experience should visit the Madonnen-Klettersteig via ferrata.
All via ferrata climbing routes at a glance
Climbing parks in East Tirol
The Kletterpark Schlossberg in Lienz is one of the largest high-rope climbing parks in Tirol. It has 17 obstacle courses with 180 stations up to 20 metres above the forest floor. Further highlights include 35 zipwires and a climbing area designed for children as young as 2 years. Other similar high-rope parks include the Waldseilpark Galitzenklamm, which has several obstacle courses up to 12 metres above the ground and a spectacular zipwire descent.
All climbing parks at a glance
Climbing for families in East Tirol
The Rabantkofel climbing area is relatively new, easily accessible and has excellent safety standards, making it ideal for families with children. Most of the routes on offer are rated easy or intermediate. After a long climbing session, there is no better place for a hearty meal than the nearby Chrysanthner Wirt inn.
