Best Time To Visit Wildschönau
Wildschönau is a destination for everyone, whether they are looking for adventure, culture, or relaxation. Niederau, Oberau, Auffach, and Thierbach are the four villages that make up the valley, each with their own distinct charm and attractions. Hiking, biking, paragliding, skiing, sledding, and other outdoor activities are available in the breathtaking natural scenery, and you can also learn about the region’s rich history and traditions by visiting museums, churches, festivals, and events.
When should you visit Wildschönau? The answer is determined by what you want to do and see, as well as your personal preferences. Here are some things to consider as you plan your trip:
- Weather: The climate in Wildschönau is continental, with warm summers and cold winters. The average temperature ranges from -1°C in January to 18°C in July, but this can vary greatly depending on altitude and weather. In the winter, the valley receives a lot of snow, making it ideal for skiing and other winter sports, but it also has sunny days and clear skies. Summer is pleasant and mild, with sporadic rain and thunderstorms but plenty of sunshine and greenery. Spring and autumn are transitional seasons, with changing colors and temperatures, as well as fewer people and lower prices.
- Activities: Wildschönau has activities to suit all seasons and interests. Over 100 km of ski slopes, 50 km of cross-country trails, 40 km of winter hiking paths, and 10 km of toboggan runs are available in the winter, as well as ice skating, snowshoeing, and horse-drawn sleigh rides. During the summer, there are over 300 kilometers of hiking trails, 250 kilometers of biking trails, and numerous paragliding spots, as well as swimming, fishing, golfing, and tennis. The Wildschönau Adventure Park also has a high ropes course, a climbing wall, a zip line, and a giant swing. You can enjoy the blooming flowers and changing leaves, as well as the quieter atmosphere and lower prices, in the spring and autumn.
- Culture: Wildschönau has a diverse and rich culture, as well as a long history and a strong identity. Museums such as the Bergbauernmuseum (Mountain Farmer’s Museum), the Holzmuseum (Wood Museum), the Schaubergwerk Lehenlahn (Show Mine), and the 1. Tiroler Holzmuseum (1st Tyrolean Wood Museum) can teach you more about the valley’s past and present. The architecture and art of the valley’s churches, chapels, and monuments, such as the Pfarrkirche Niederau (Parish Church of Niederau), the Wallfahrtskirche Mariastein (Pilgrimage Church of Mariastein), and the Kundler Klamm (Kundl Gorge), can also be appreciated. Furthermore, the valley’s traditions and customs can be experienced through festivals and events such as the Almabtrieb (Cattle Drive), Alpenrosenfest (Alpine Rose Festival), Tiroler Abend (Tyrolean Evening), and Advent in den Bergen (Advent in the Mountains).
The best time to visit Wildschönau is determined by your personal preferences and goals. However, here are some general guidelines:
- If you enjoy skiing and other winter sports, the best time to visit Wildschönau is between December and March, when there is plenty of snow and the slopes are open. The festive atmosphere and cozy warmth of the valley’s hotels, restaurants, and pubs can also be enjoyed.
- The best time to visit Wildschönau if you enjoy hiking and nature is from June to September, when the weather is mild and the scenery is lush and colorful. You can also take in the fresh air and gaze out at the valley and mountains.
- If you are interested in culture and history, the best months to visit Wildschönau are April to May or October to November, when the valley is less crowded and more authentic. You can also take advantage of lower prices and the changing seasons.
Seasons in Wildschönau
- Spring in Wildschönau: Spring is a lovely time to visit Wildschönau because the valley awakens from its winter slumber and the flowers begin to bloom. You can take advantage of the mild weather and fresh air, as well as the lower prices and fewer tourists. You can also attend cultural events in the valley, such as the Easter Market, the Maypole Festival, and the Mother’s Day Concert.
- Summer in Wildschönau: Summer is the busiest season in Wildschönau, as the valley has a wide range of outdoor activities and attractions for people of all ages and tastes. Hiking, biking, paragliding, swimming, fishing, golfing, and other activities are available in the stunning natural scenery, or you can visit the Wildschönau Adventure Park, which includes a high ropes course, a climbing wall, a zip line, and a giant swing. The sunny days and greenery, as well as the lively atmosphere and festivals such as the Alpine Rose Festival, the Tyrolean Evening, and the Cattle Drive, are also available.
- Autumn in Wildschönau: Autumn is a magical time to visit Wildschönau because the valley transforms into a vibrant display of red, yellow, and orange. You can enjoy the changing leaves and panoramic views, as well as the valley’s quieter and more authentic vibe. You can also participate in some of the valley’s customs and traditions, such as the Harvest Festival, Advent in the Mountains, and the Christmas Market.
- Winter in Wildschönau: Winter is a fantastic time to visit Wildschönau because the valley transforms into a winter wonderland of snow and ice. You can ski, sled, snowshoe, and do other activities on the valley’s slopes, trails, and paths, or you can relax and enjoy the cozy warmth and festive atmosphere of the valley’s hotels, restaurants, and pubs. There are also historical and cultural attractions in the valley, such as the Show Mine, the Wood Museum, and the Mountain Farmer’s Museum.
Best Time To Visit Wildschönau - By Month
- January: In January, temperatures drop significantly, reaching an average low of -8°C and a high of 1°C1. In addition, this month experiences minimal rainfall, yet it sees the highest levels of snowfall. January offers fantastic opportunities for skiing, snowshoeing, and sledding in Wildschönau.In addition, you have the opportunity to explore the Lehenlahn silver mine and the Tiroler Holzmuseum, both of which are complimentary with the Wildschönau card.
- February: In February, the weather starts to show signs of improvement compared to January. It becomes a bit warmer and sunnier, making it a pleasant month.The temperatures range from -6°C to 3°C on average. February is a fantastic month for winter sports, particularly during the carnival week, when the ski slopes come alive with vibrant decorations.Another event to look forward to is the traditional Almabtrieb, where the cows are gracefully guided down from the alpine pastures to the valley.
- March: In March, the arrival of spring brings with it a gradual increase in average temperatures, ranging from 0°C to 8°C. Although the snow is beginning to melt, there is still an ample amount for those who enjoy skiing and snowboarding.In March, you have the opportunity to visit the Bergbauern Museum and delve into the fascinating world of mountain farmers. Discover their unique way of life and immerse yourself in their rich culture.
- April: The month of April brings warmer temperatures and a vibrant green landscape, with average temperatures ranging from 4°C to 13°C. The flowers begin to blossom and the hiking trails open up for exploration.April is an excellent time to discover the valley on an e-bike, which can be rented at a discounted rate with the Wildschönau card.Another place worth visiting is the Schönanger pasture, where you have the opportunity to sample the renowned Wildschönau cheese and meet the skilled cheese maker Johann Schönauer.
- May: In May, the weather becomes even warmer and sunnier, with average temperatures ranging from 8°C to 18°C. May is an excellent month for hiking, with meadows bursting with vibrant wildflowers and breathtaking views. Join the free guided walks with the Wildschönau card and uncover the finest trails and viewpoints. Additionally, you have the opportunity to explore Birgit Haas’s herb garden, where you can gain knowledge about the medicinal qualities of various herbs and indulge in a delightful herbal tea.
- June: The month of June experiences the highest temperatures and rainfall of the year, with average temperatures ranging from 12°C to 22°C and an average rainfall of 176 mm. June offers a plethora of exciting outdoor activities, including paragliding, rafting, climbing, and high ropes. These activities can be booked at a discounted rate with the Wildschönau card. Another option is to check out the Familienpark Drachental, a delightful amusement park that caters to families with children.
- July: This month bears resemblance to June, but with a slight decrease in temperature and precipitation. The average temperatures range from 11°C to 20°C, while the average rainfall amounts to 100 mm. July is an excellent month for swimming in the Wildschönau, thanks to the free outdoor pool that offers a slide and a diving board. Another must-see is the Kundl Gorge, a breathtaking natural wonder featuring a stunning waterfall and a thrilling suspension bridge.
- August: The summer season reaches its peak during this month, with average temperatures ranging from 10°C to 19°C. August is packed with festivals and events, including the Wildschönau Valley Festival, the Almrosenfest, the Woodcarving Festival, and the Almkirchtag. Another attraction worth visiting is the Silberbergwerk Lehenlahn, a former silver mine that provides guided tours and a museum.
- September: In September, the weather begins to transition into autumn, with average temperatures ranging from 7°C to 15°C. The leaves undergo a stunning transformation, painting the valley in a vibrant palette of red, orange, and yellow. September is an excellent month for hiking, particularly during the sunrise walk over the Kragenjoch peak, where you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views at 1425 m. Another place worth visiting is the Pfarrkirche Thierbach, a delightful church located in the smallest village of the valley.
- October: The weather in this month tends to be cooler and cloudier, with average temperatures ranging from 3°C to 10°C. The snow begins to blanket the higher altitudes, while the lower parts of the valley remain lush and inviting. October is an ideal month for cycling, with less crowded roads and breathtaking scenery. Another interesting place to visit is the 1. Tiroler Holzmuseum, a museum that showcases the rich history and intricate art of wood carving.
- November: In November, temperatures drop significantly and daylight hours become scarce, making it the coldest and darkest month of the year. The average temperatures range from -1°C to 4°C, and there are only 68 hours of sunshine throughout the month. The valley is blanketed in snow as the ski season commences. In November, the Ski Juwel Alpbachtal Wildschönau offers an abundance of opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and cross-country skiing. With its impressive 109 km of pistes, it is undoubtedly one of the largest ski areas in the Tyrol. Another option is to explore the Alpine Advent, a festive Christmas market featuring local crafts, live music, and delicious food.
- December: This month bears resemblance to November, albeit with a touch of warmth and more sunshine. The average temperatures range from -2°C to 5°C, while the sunshine hours amount to 74. December is a fantastic month for winter sports, particularly during the Christmas and New Year holidays, when the valley is filled with a festive and lively atmosphere. Another attraction worth checking out is the Nachtrodelbahn Roggenboden, a thrilling night toboggan run that guarantees a fun-filled experience.