Things To Do In Wildschönau
Wildschönau is a destination that offers a wide range of activities and attractions for all types of travelers. Whether you are seeking adventure, culture, or relaxation, this valley has something to offer. With four charming villages to explore, including Niederau, Oberau, Auffach, and Thierbach, you can immerse yourself in the rich history and traditions of the region.
One of the highlights of Wildschönau is the opportunity to take cable cars to the top of the Markbachjoch and Schatzberg mountains. From these peaks, you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the valley and surrounding mountains. The cable car rides are even free with the Wildschönau card, which you can obtain from your accommodation provider.
For nature enthusiasts, a visit to the Kundl Gorge is a must. This natural attraction connects the Wildschönau and Inn valleys and offers stunning views of impressive rock formations and thundering waterfalls. You can explore the gorge on foot or take a bus that regularly runs between the villages and the gorge. There is even a small train, called the Bummelzug, that provides a fun and scenic ride for both children and adults.
To learn more about the region’s history and culture, a visit to the Bergbauern Museum is highly recommended. This unique open-air museum showcases the life and work of mountain farmers, featuring original farmhouses, barns, workshops, animals, tools, and exhibits. Guided tours, workshops, and events are also available to provide a deeper understanding of the area’s heritage.
For those seeking relaxation, the Wildschönau outdoor pool is the perfect place to cool off and unwind. With three pools, a sunbathing lawn, and a playground, this heated pool complex offers a refreshing escape after a day of exploring the mountains. And just like the cable car rides, access to the pool is free with the Wildschönau card.
Families will delight in a visit to the Family Park Drachental Wildschönau. This adventure park offers a range of attractions and activities, including a modern alpine coaster, Tyrol’s first 5D cinema, a go-kart track, a bag jump, a play lake, and a playground. With something for all ages and tastes, this park guarantees fun and excitement for the whole family.
Outdoor enthusiasts will be thrilled by the extensive hiking and biking opportunities in Wildschönau. With over 300 km of well-marked hiking trails and 250 km of biking routes, there is something for every level of difficulty and preference. Guided walks, hiking schools, guided tours, and biking schools are available to provide expert advice and insights into the sport and the area.
For adrenaline junkies, Wildschönau offers excellent conditions for paragliding. You can soar through the skies and enjoy stunning views by paragliding from the Rosskopf peak, which is accessible by the Lanerköpfl cable car in Niederau. Whether you prefer to fly solo or tandem, the paragliding school offers courses and lessons for beginners and advanced flyers.
No visit to Wildschönau would be complete without indulging in the local cuisine and experiencing the vibrant events that celebrate the culture and customs of the valley. From delicious specialties like Wildschönau cheese, Krautinger schnapps, Kasspatzln, and Kiachln to events like the Almabtrieb, cattle drive, Schatzberg Festival, Harvest Festival, and Advent Market, you can truly immerse yourself in the local traditions and flavors.
In conclusion, Wildschönau is a destination that offers a diverse range of activities and attractions for all types of travelers. Whether you are seeking adventure, culture, or relaxation, this valley has it all. From cable car rides to panoramic mountain views, stunning natural attractions like the Kundl Gorge, open-air museums, outdoor pools, adventure parks, hiking and biking trails, paragliding opportunities, delicious cuisine
Summer Activities In Wildschönau
Hiking in the Wildschoenau
Wildschönau has over 300 kilometers of well-marked hiking trails for all skill levels and preferences. The trails range from easy valley walks to difficult mountain tours, from short loops to long-distance routes, and from family-friendly to adventurous. You can select from a variety of themes, including nature, culture, history, and cuisine. You can also participate in guided walks or a hiking school to learn more about the sport and the surrounding area.
Here are some of the best Wildschönau hiking trails:
- Kundl Gorge: This is an easy trail that starts in Mühltal and ends in Kundl. It is 5 km long and has a total elevation gain of 100 m. It is suitable for families and children, as well as dogs. The trail follows the course of the Wildschönauer Ache river, passing through impressive rock formations and thundering waterfalls. The trail is also accessible by a bus, which runs regularly between the villages and the gorge.
- Thierbach circular walk: This is an easy trail that starts and ends in Thierbach, the smallest village in the valley. It is 3 km long and has a total elevation gain of 50 m. It is suitable for families and children, as well as seniors. The trail runs around the Thierbach Kogl, a small hill that offers views of the valley and the mountains. The trail also features a forest playground, numerous wooden figures, an insect hotel, and a herb garden.
- Schatzberg round trip: This is a medium difficulty trail that starts and ends at the Schatzberg cable car station in Auffach. It is 10 km long and has a total elevation gain of 400 m. It is suitable for intermediate and experienced hikers, as well as mountain bikers. The trail runs around the Schatzberg mountain, offering views of the Wildschönau and the Alpbachtal valleys. The trail also passes by the Schönanger pasture, where you can taste the famous Wildschönau cheese and meet the master cheese maker Johann Schönauer.
- Rosskopf peak: This is a medium difficulty trail that starts at the Lanerköpfl cable car station in Niederau and ends at the Rosskopf peak. It is 6 km long and has a total elevation gain of 600 m. It is suitable for intermediate and experienced hikers, as well as paragliders. The trail runs along the ridge of the Lanerköpfl mountain, offering views of the valley and the Wilder Kaiser mountains. The trail also passes by the Gseng and Lahner alpine pastures, where you can enjoy a snack and a drink.
- Kragenjoch sunrise walk: This is a difficult trail that starts and ends at the Markbachjoch cable car station in Niederau. It is 8 km long and has a total elevation gain of 800 m. It is suitable for experienced and adventurous hikers, as well as photographers. The trail runs over the Kragenjoch peak, which offers panoramic views at 1425 m. The trail also features a sunrise walk, which takes place every Wednesday in July and August. You can join the guided walk and enjoy the spectacular sunrise over the mountains.
Wildschoenau outdoor pool
Swimming in the Wildschönau outdoor pool, which is located on the St Francis Path between the villages of Oberau and Niederau, is one of the most enjoyable and relaxing summer activities in Wildschönau. Depending on the weather, the pool is open from May to September. The pool is heated to an average temperature of 24°C, making it ideal for a cool down after a day in the mountains. Three pools, a sunbathing lawn, and a playground are part of the pool complex.
- Sports pool: This is a large pool for swimming and diving, with a water surface of 600 m² and a depth of 1.8 m. The pool has two diving platforms, one at 1 m and one at 3 m, for those who like to jump into the water. The pool also has a water slide, which is 50 m long and 8 m high, for those who like to speed down the water. The pool is suitable for adults and children who can swim.
- Multi-purpose pool: This is a smaller pool for bathing and splashing, with a water surface of 300 m² and a depth of 0.8 m. The pool has a water slide, which is 20 m long and 4 m high, for those who like to have fun in the water. The pool also has a green crocodile, which is a floating platform for children to climb and play on. The pool is suitable for children and adults who cannot swim or prefer a shallower water.
- Children’s pool: This is a tiny pool for the youngest visitors, with a water surface of 100 m² and a depth of 0.3 m. The pool has a pink elephant, which is a water fountain for children to enjoy. The pool also has a sun awning, which provides shade and protection from the sun. The pool is suitable for babies and toddlers who need a safe and gentle water.
The sunbathing lawn is a large area of grass that provides plenty of space and shade for sunbathing and relaxing. The lawn has sun loungers and parasols that can be rented or used for free with the Wildschönau card. For those who want to play volleyball, there is also a beach volleyball court on the lawn that is free to use. The lawn is appropriate for anyone who wants to enjoy the sun and nature.
The playground is a fun area for kids that has a variety of equipment and activities for playing and learning. There is a sandpit, a trampoline, a climbing tower, a slide, and a suspension bridge on the playground. There are also wooden figures, an insect hotel, and a herb garden on the playground. The playground is appropriate for children of all ages who want to play and be creative.
The pool complex also has a café with a terrace where visitors can get drinks, snacks, and ice cream. The café’s staff is friendly and attentive, and they are eager to serve and assist guests. The café also has a panoramic view of the valley and mountains, making it a relaxing place to sit and take in the scenery.
The pool complex is free with the Wildschönau card, which can be obtained from your lodging provider. The Wildschönau card also provides discounts or free admission to many other attractions and activities in the valley, including cable cars, museums, gorges, and guided walks. The Wildschönau card is an excellent way to save money while exploring the region.
Depending on the weather, the pool complex is open from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. In the event of inclement weather, such as rain, thunderstorms, or high winds, the pool complex is closed. The pool complex is also accessible by bus, which runs between the villages and the pool on a regular basis.
Swimming in the Wildschönau outdoor pool is a great way to enjoy the summer season while learning about the region’s beauty and culture. You will find a pool that meets your needs and expectations, whether you are looking for a sporty or relaxing activity.
Biking in the Wildschoenau
Wildschönau has over 250 km of well-marked biking trails for all skill levels and preferences. The routes range from easy valley rides to difficult mountain tours, from short loops to long-distance treks, and from family-friendly paths to adventurous trails. You can select from a variety of themes, including nature, culture, history, and cuisine. You can also participate in guided tours or a biking school to learn more about the sport and the surrounding area.
Here are some of the best Wildschönau biking routes:
- Wildschönau Valley Tour: This is an easy route that starts and ends in Niederau. It is 18 km long and has a total elevation gain of 100 m. It is suitable for families and children, as well as beginners and leisure bikers. The route follows the course of the Wildschönauer Ache river, passing by the villages of Oberau, Mühltal, and Auffach. The route also features several attractions, such as the Kundl Gorge, the Bergbauern Museum, and the Schönanger pasture.
- 2 Valley Tour: This is a medium difficulty route that starts in Niederau and ends in Alpbach. It is 36 km long and has a total elevation gain of 1060 m. It is suitable for intermediate and experienced bikers, as well as mountain bikers and e-bikers. The route crosses the border between the Wildschönau and the Alpbachtal valleys, offering views of both regions. The route also passes by the villages of Auffach, Thierbach, and Inneralpbach, as well as the Schatzberg and Wiedersbergerhorn cable cars.
- Zauberwinkelweg to Wörgl: This is a medium difficulty route that starts in Auffach and ends in Wörgl. It is 7.5 km long and has a total elevation drop of 467 m. It is suitable for intermediate and experienced bikers, as well as downhill bikers and e-bikers. The route follows the Zauberwinkelweg, a former railway track that connects the Wildschönau and the Inn valleys. The route offers views of the valley and the mountains, as well as the Wörgl Water World, a large water park.
- Schatzberg Round Trip: This is a difficult route that starts and ends at the Schatzberg cable car station in Auffach. It is 10 km long and has a total elevation gain of 400 m. It is suitable for experienced and adventurous bikers, as well as mountain bikers and e-bikers. The route runs around the Schatzberg mountain, offering views of the Wildschönau and the Alpbachtal valleys. The route also features a single-seater rollercoaster called the Lauser Sauser, which offers a thrilling ride down the mountain.
Family Park Drachental Wildschönau
The Family Park Drachental Wildschönau is located in Oberau, the valley’s largest village. Depending on the weather, the park is open from May to September. With a modern alpine coaster, Tyrol’s first 5D cinema, a go-kart track, a bag jump, a play lake, and a playground, the park is unlike any other.
- Alpine Coaster: This is the heart of the park and the absolute favourite among the visitors. It is the most modern alpine coaster in the world, with a length of 1.2 km and a height difference of 140 m. It is suitable for adults and children over 3 years old, who can ride alone or in pairs. The coaster has a speed of up to 40 km/h, which can be controlled by the riders. The coaster also has a photo point, where you can get a souvenir picture of your ride.
- 5D Cinema: This is the first 5D cinema in Tyrol, which offers a unique and immersive movie experience. It is suitable for adults and children over 6 years old, who can choose from different movies, such as Ice Age, Jurassic World, or Minions. The cinema has 12 seats, which move and vibrate according to the movie. The cinema also has special effects, such as wind, water, fog, and light, which enhance the movie.
- Go-Kart Track: This is a fun and challenging track for racing and driving, with a length of 300 m and a width of 4 m. It is suitable for adults and children over 8 years old, who can drive electric go-karts with a speed of up to 25 km/h. The track has curves, straights, and chicanes, which test the drivers’ skills and reflexes. The track also has a timing system, which records the drivers’ lap times and ranks them on a leaderboard.
- Bag Jump: This is a thrilling and adventurous attraction for jumping and flying, with a height of 8 m and a width of 15 m. It is suitable for adults and children over 10 years old, who can jump from a platform or a trampoline onto a giant airbag. The jumpers can perform different tricks and stunts, such as flips, twists, or spins. The jumpers also wear helmets and harnesses, which ensure their safety and comfort.
- Play Lake: This is a refreshing and relaxing attraction for bathing and splashing, with a water surface of 800 m² and a depth of 0.8 m. It is suitable for everyone, especially families and children, who can swim, paddle, or play in the water. The lake has a water slide, a water fountain, and a water wheel, which add to the fun and excitement. The lake also has a sunbathing lawn, which offers plenty of space and shade for relaxing and sunbathing.
- Playground: This is a fun and creative attraction for playing and learning, with various equipment and activities for children of all ages. The playground has a sandpit, a trampoline, a climbing tower, a slide, and a suspension bridge. The playground also has wooden figures, an insect hotel, and a herb garden, which stimulate the children’s imagination and curiosity.
The park also has a café with a terrace where visitors can get drinks, snacks, and ice cream. The café’s staff is friendly and attentive, and they are eager to serve and assist guests. The café also has a panoramic view of the valley and mountains, making it a relaxing place to sit and take in the scenery.
The park is free with the purchase of a Wildschönau card, which can be obtained from your lodging provider. The Wildschönau card also provides discounts or free admission to many other attractions and activities in the valley, including cable cars, museums, gorges, and guided walks. The Wildschönau card is an excellent way to save money while exploring the region.
Depending on the weather, the park is open from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. In case of inclement weather, such as rain, thunderstorms, or high winds, the park is closed.
Winter Activities In Wildschönau
Skiing in Wildschönau
Wildschönau is part of the Ski Juwel Alpbachtal Wildschönau ski area, which has over 100 kilometers of well-groomed slopes for all skill levels and preferences. There are 45 modern cable cars and lifts, two snow parks, 25 ski huts and mountain restaurants, and a ski school at the ski area. Niederau, Oberau, Auffach, and Alpbach are the four sectors of the ski area. Each industry has its own distinct characteristics and highlights.
- Niederau sector: This is the largest and most diverse sector of the ski area, with 29 km of slopes and 11 lifts. It is suitable for beginners and intermediates, as well as families and children. The slopes are wide and gentle, with some steeper and more challenging sections. The sector has a snow park, a ski kindergarten, a ski rental, and a ski depot. The sector also offers night skiing and night tobogganing on selected days.
- Oberau sector: This is the smallest and most tranquil sector of the ski area, with 8 km of slopes and 4 lifts. It is suitable for beginners and families, as well as cross-country skiers and ski mountaineers. The slopes are easy and sunny, with some forested and scenic sections. The sector has a ski school, a ski rental, and a ski bus. The sector also offers a floodlit toboggan run and a drag lift at Roggenboden.
- Auffach sector: This is the highest and most snow-sure sector of the ski area, with 46 km of slopes and 17 lifts. It is suitable for intermediates and experts, as well as freestylers and snowboarders. The slopes are varied and challenging, with some wide and gentle sections. The sector has a snow park, a fun slope, a ski school, a ski rental, and a ski depot. The sector also offers a toboggan run and a single-seater rollercoaster called the Lauser Sauser.
- Alpbach sector: This is the most scenic and charming sector of the ski area, with 25 km of slopes and 13 lifts. It is suitable for intermediates and experts, as well as families and children. The slopes are steep and narrow, with some wide and gentle sections. The sector has a fun slope, a ski school, a ski rental, and a ski bus. The sector also offers a toboggan run and a panoramic view of the Alpbachtal valley.
Tobogganing
Tobogganing, or sliding down a slope on a wooden or plastic sled, is one of the most fun and exciting winter activities in Wildschönau. Tobogganing is suitable for anyone, young or old, beginner or expert, alone or in a group. You can enjoy the thrill of speed, the fresh air, the panoramic views, as well as the valley’s cozy and friendly atmosphere.
Wildschönau has over 15 kilometers of groomed toboggan runs for both day and night skiing. The runs are easily accessible by lift, bus, or foot and vary in difficulty and length. You can also rent or bring your own toboggan from one of the local rental shops. With the Wildschönau card, which you can get from your accommodation provider, you can also get a discount or free entry to many sights and activities in the valley.
Here are some of Wildschönau’s best toboggan runs:
- Lanerköpfl toboggan run: This is a medium difficulty run that starts at the top station of the Lanerköpflbahn cable car in Niederau and ends in the village. It is 5 km long and has a total elevation drop of 560 m. It is suitable for both day and night tobogganing, as it is illuminated until 10 pm. The run passes by the rustic Gseng and Lahner alpine pastures, offering views of the valley and the Wilder Kaiser mountains. It is also awarded the Tyrolean toboggan seal of quality, which guarantees safety and fun.
- Schatzberg toboggan run: This is a medium difficulty run that starts at the middle station of the Schatzbergbahn cable car in Auffach and ends in the village. It is 5 km long and has a total elevation drop of 400 m. It is suitable for both day and night tobogganing, as it is illuminated until 9:30 pm. The run offers two options: the family run and the more difficult Holzhackerbahn. Both runs lead through the forest, offering views of the valley and the Alpbachtal mountains. It is also awarded the Tyrolean toboggan seal of quality.
- Roggenboden toboggan run: This is an easy run that starts and ends in Oberau. It is 3 km long and has a total elevation drop of 90 m. It is suitable for night tobogganing only, as it is illuminated from 7 pm to 9 pm. The run runs on the Roggenboden plateau, offering views of the valley and the Wilder Kaiser mountains. It is also accessible by a drag lift, which takes you up the slope by floodlight.
- Bernau toboggan run: This is an easy run that starts and ends in Auffach. It is 3 km long and has no elevation drop. It is suitable for both day and night tobogganing, as it is illuminated until 10 pm. The run runs on the sunny Bernau plateau, offering views of the valley and the Alpbachtal mountains. It is also a good place to spot wildlife, such as deer, foxes, and birds.
Tobogganing in Wildschönau is a great way to enjoy the winter season while learning about the region’s beauty and culture. You will find a run that meets your needs and expectations, whether they are family-friendly or thrilling.
Cross-country skiing in the Wildschönau
Wildschönau is an excellent cross-country skiing destination, with over 50 kilometers of well-groomed trails for both classic and skating techniques. The trails wind through the valley and the surrounding mountains, providing varied landscapes and breathtaking views. Depending on your preference and ability, you can choose from easy, medium, or difficult trails. You can also learn more about the sport and the area by joining guided tours or the cross-country ski school.
Some of the best cross-country ski trails in the Wildschönau are as follows:
- Roggenboden cross-country track: This is a medium difficulty trail that starts and ends in Oberau. It is 5 km long and has a total elevation gain of 150 m. It is suitable for both classic and skating techniques. The trail runs through the Roggenboden plateau, offering views of the valley and the Wilder Kaiser mountains. It is also illuminated at night, making it ideal for a romantic evening ski.
- Penning cross-country track: This is a medium difficulty trail that starts in Niederau and ends in Penningdörfl. It is 12 km long and has a total elevation gain of 100 m. It is suitable for both classic and skating techniques. The trail follows the course of the Wildschönauer Ache river, passing by the villages of Oberau and Mühltal. It also crosses the Kundl Gorge, a spectacular natural attraction with a waterfall and a suspension bridge.
- Loipe Oberau-Niederau: This is a medium difficulty trail that connects the villages of Oberau and Niederau. It is 6 km long and has a total elevation gain of 110 m. It is suitable for both classic and skating techniques. The trail runs along the valley floor, offering views of the meadows, the forests, and the peaks. It also passes by the Pfarrkirche Niederau, a beautiful parish church with a baroque tower.
- Auffach cross-country track to Mühltal: This is an easy trail that starts and ends in Auffach. It is 3 km long and has a total elevation gain of 90 m. It is suitable for both classic and skating techniques. The trail runs through the Mühltal valley, offering views of the Schatzberg mountain and the Schönanger lake. It also passes by the Schönanger pasture, where you can taste the famous Wildschönau cheese and meet the master cheese maker Johann Schönauer.
- Bernau cross-country skiing track: This is an easy trail that starts and ends in Auffach. It is 3 km long and has no elevation gain. It is suitable for both classic and skating techniques. The trail runs on the sunny Bernau plateau, offering views of the valley and the Alpbachtal mountains. It is also a good place to spot wildlife, such as deer, foxes, and birds.
- Schönanger cross-country track: This is a medium difficulty trail that starts and ends at the Schönanger Alm. It is 6 km long and has a total elevation gain of 200 m. It is suitable for classic technique only. The trail runs on the high-altitude Schönanger plateau, offering views of the Wildschönau and the Zillertal mountains. It is also a good place to enjoy the snow and the silence.
