The five remote side valleys branching off the Wipptal Valley are a haven of peace and quiet in the winter months, making them the ideal place for winter hiking.
All in all there are around 70 kilometres of winter hiking trails spread across the five valleys, all of which are well-signposted and kept in excellent condition throughout the winter. A good example is the idyllic Navistal Valley – perched at 1,300 metres above sea level in the Tux Alps – with its traditional Tirolean farmhouses. On the other side of the Wipptal Valley is the impressive Gschnitztal Valley with an easy hiking trail leading into the towering Stubai Alps. Those who want to head up into the mountains and enjoy the majestic views should try the high-altitude hike around the Waldraster Jöchl ridge starting at the Maria Waldrast monastery and pilgrimage church. Whichever trail you decide to explore, throughout the Wipptal Valley region you will find plenty of cosy wooden huts and restaurants serving traditional food.
Tip! There are five side valleys branching off the main Wipptal Valley into the Tux and Stubai Alps. One of the best ways to explore them and learn about the culture, history and nature of the region is with a qualified hiking guide. The local tourism board offers packages called "Aktiv-Week" and "Well aktiv" combining hiking and spa treatments. The package includes:
- 6/4 nights bed and breakfast or half-board,
- local tourism tax,
- guided walks and hikes (daily),
- bus transfers each day to the starting points of the hikes,
- access to Finnish sauna and herb sauna, steam bath, infrared cabin, chillout room with panoramic views, yoga room, nature and mountains library,
- free parking,
- wireless internet,
- hire of hiking poles.
For more information please contact the Wipptal Valley tourism board: + 43.5272.6270, tourismus@wipptal.at, www.wipptal.at
