Patscherkofel Alpine Garden

Patscherkofel Alpine Garden, 1.5 hectare area sits at 2,000 meters above sea level and is nevertheless easily accessible by cable car. It is home to some of the most diverse and fascinating plants in the world, thanks to the efforts of the University of Innsbruck.

A botanical treasure trove

The Patscherkofel Alpine Garden was established in 1930 by the University of Innsbruck as a research and teaching facility. It is located close to the mountain station of the Patscherkofelbahn, which offers a panoramic view of the surrounding peaks and valleys. The garden hosts more than 400 species of alpine flora, including some rare and endangered ones. Here you can find the iconic edelweiss, the blue gentian, and the yellow platenigl, which are native to the Alps. You can also discover plants from other mountain ranges, such as the Himalayas, the Andes, and the Caucasus. Some of these plants have adapted to extreme conditions, such as cold, drought, and wind, and have developed special features, such as thick leaves, hairy stems, and bright colors.

A seasonal spectacle

The Patscherkofel Alpine Garden is open from May to October, and each month offers a different display of beauty. In June, the garden is covered with beautiful purple mats of flowering alpine roses, which are actually a type of rhododendron. These plants are poisonous, so be careful not to touch or eat them. In July and August, the garden reaches its peak of blooming, with a variety of colors and shapes. You can see the delicate white bells of the snowdrop anemone, the spiky pink clusters of the alpine catchfly, and the star-shaped purple petals of the alpine aster. In September and October, the garden changes its hues to yellow and red, as the leaves of the trees and shrubs turn color. You can admire the golden glow of the mountain ash, the fiery red of the alpine currant, and the coppery brown of the dwarf birch.

A relaxing walk

The best way to enjoy the Patscherkofel Alpine Garden is to take a leisurely walk around the circular hiking track, which is about 1.5 kilometers long and takes about an hour to complete. Along the way, you will find informative signs that explain the names and characteristics of the plants. You will also encounter benches and picnic tables where you can rest and have a snack. The garden is suitable for all ages and fitness levels, as the path is mostly flat and well-maintained. However, be aware that the altitude and the sun can be intense, so make sure to bring enough water, sunscreen, and a hat. The garden is also a great place for photography, as you can capture the stunning contrast between the green plants and the rocky landscape.

Innsbruck, Austria