Alpbach is a picture-perfect village nestled in the Alpbachtal Valley, between the Kitzbühel and Zillertal Alps. Forested mountainsides crowned by dramatic snowcapped peaks rise up above the storybook rooftops of the village. This year-round destination beckons visitors with excellent alpine sports in winter. Visit Alpbach in the sun-drenched summers to relax amid the glorious landscapes and explore miles of hiking and biking routes.
Timber huts with flower-filled balconies line the village streets and create a scene that appears to have been lifted from a fairytale. Visit the pretty St. Oswald’s Church, whose cemetery is home to the grave of Nobel laureate Erwin Schrodinger. Sample Tyrolean cuisine while mingling with locals and tourists at atmospheric restaurants such as the 800-year-old Gasthof Jakober. The Alpbach Nature and Heritage Trail is a signposted trail around the village and flower-filled meadows.
When the snow falls the village becomes a winter wonderland for all ages. With 68 miles (109 kilometers) of powdery runs, Ski Juwel Alpbachtal Wildschönau is among the biggest ski resorts in the Tyrol region. It spreads across two valleys and four mountains, including Schatzberg and Wiedersbergerhorn. Go skiing, snowboarding and tobogganing, try igloo building, ride an alpine roller coaster and plan winter hikes.
In summer, the Wiedersbergerhornbahn Gondola provides access to the hiking and mountain biking trails. Climb to the summit of Wiedersbergerhorn for spectacular views over the Zillertal Alps. Children will love the mountaintop adventure playgrounds at Lauserland. Conquer the summit of 6,230-feet (1,899-meter) tall Gratlspitze via a route dotted with cozy food huts.
Learn about the farming traditions of the region at Alpbach Farmhouse Museum. Browse an exhibition of around 800 farming instruments and furniture pieces and interact with chickens, cows and pigs. Witness a working water-powered grain mill in action at Alpbach Flour Mill.
Alpbach is a 1-hour drive west of Innsbruck. Take the train to Brixlegg Bahnhof and catch a local bus from there. Once here, the best way to get around is on foot or by bike and mountain gondolas.
