In this article, I’ve compiled comprehensive information about Mayrhofen, including a selection of enjoyable attractions in the surrounding area.
Table of Contents
- Mayrhofen – General Information
- Weather in Town
- Attractions around Town
- Eagle’s Stage Ahorn
- Behind-the-Scenes Tour of the Raptor Enclosure
- Ahorn Leisure Trail
- Kunstraum Ahorn
- Funsportstation on Penken Mountain
- Cable Cars
- Additional Important Information
- More Attractions in the Area
Mayrhofen – General Information
The charming town of Mayrhofen is situated in the heart of the Zillertal Valley in North Tyrol, just about an hour’s drive from Innsbruck, Tyrol’s capital. Surrounding the town, which sits at an elevation of 633 meters above sea level, are impressive high mountains – Ahorn and Penken. The area around Mayrhofen offers a wealth of activities, no matter the season. In winter, the nearby mountains transform into wonderful ski resorts, and in summer, after the snow has melted, you can embark on delightful hikes among the mountain peaks. Mayrhofen is truly a hiker’s paradise, with hundreds of marked trails for all levels.
To reach the mountain peaks surrounding the town, there are convenient cable cars that operate even during the summer months. In fact, the cable car to Ahorn Peak is the largest in Austria, capable of carrying up to 160 people!
For those who dream of skiing even in the summer, this is a fantastic possibility at the Hintertux Glacier, located at a breathtaking altitude of 3,250 meters above sea level. The glacier’s ski resort is open all year round! The journey to the glacier from Mayrhofen takes a mere 20 minutes.
Because Mayrhofen is so popular, you’ll find a wide variety of hotels and guesthouses in and around the town. You can explore recommended places on the curated list available on Booking.com – Click Here to find your perfect stay.
Weather in Town
Most activities around Mayrhofen take place outdoors, so it’s always a good idea to be prepared and check the weather forecast before you arrive. You can see the current temperatures here.
Generally, the winter months see fewer rainy or snowy days compared to the summer. Winter temperatures in the town area typically range from -1 to -5 degrees Celsius. Naturally, temperatures at the mountain peaks will be even lower. During the summer, temperatures are pleasant, ranging from 18 to 24 degrees Celsius throughout the day.
It’s important to remember that temperatures can drop significantly at night, so make sure to pack some warm, long clothing. Additionally, if you’re planning to ascend to the peaks by cable car, be mindful of the cold winds you might encounter at the summit.
In summer, you’ll likely experience more rain, and it’s even possible that half the month could be rainy. It’s always wise to bring an umbrella and dress in layers – thin clothing close to your body, with longer, warmer layers (preferably waterproof and windproof) over them.
Attractions around Town
On the majestic mountain peaks surrounding the town, you’ll discover a number of enjoyable attractions worth exploring:
Eagle’s Stage Ahorn
The raptor enclosures on Ahorn Peak are nestled at an impressive altitude of 2,000 meters above sea level, making them the highest in all of Europe. Beyond that, the site boasts an open-air stage with breathtaking views, capable of accommodating up to 800 visitors at a time. The raptor show itself is an extraordinary experience, allowing you to feel the sheer power of these magnificent birds as they swiftly glide towards their “prey” – often just a few meters above your head! The show lasts approximately an hour, offering you a close-up encounter with impressive birds like eagles, owls, falcons, and kites. The dedicated trainers will gladly share their experiences with you and demonstrate the birds’ remarkable abilities.
You can begin your journey into the world of raptors on the educational path leading to the show stage. Just outside the cable car station on Ahorn Peak, you’ll find an informative trail with boards detailing fascinating facts about these birds of prey. The path will lead you directly to the show stage.
Raptor Show:
Behind-the-Scenes Tour of the Raptor Enclosure
This exclusive tour will give you an intimate look into the world of raptor trainers. You’ll discover their daily routine, learn what it takes to become a trainer, and gain insights into what’s important when working in such a unique environment. You’ll also have the special opportunity to witness the feeding of the birds. Afterward, there will be a short break, followed by the start of the main raptor show.
These tours run from mid-June to mid-October, every Wednesday from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM. Please remember that advance registration is required.
Meeting Point: The entrance to the Eagle’s Stage. The tour begins promptly at 10:00 AM.
Suitability: This tour is suitable for children aged 16 and above.
Tickets for the tour can be conveniently purchased at the cable car station. Make sure to buy them by Tuesday at 4:00 PM.
This tour is also accessible for people with disabilities.
Additional Important Information about the Eagle’s Stage:
- Operating Hours: From mid-June to mid-October, the show takes place every day except Fridays, at 2:00 PM.
- Entry possible from: 1:45 PM
- Show Duration: Approximately one hour.
- The show stage itself is open every day except Wednesdays, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM. Entrance during these hours is free. You’re welcome to simply sit and soak in the magnificent views.
- The stage is fully accessible for people with disabilities.
Cost:
- Raptor Show only:
- Adult – €11.40
- Child (up to 15 years old) – €6.30
- Cable Car Up and Down + Raptor Show:
- Adult – €32.30
- Child (up to 15 years old) – €15.60
- Cable Car Up and Down + Raptor Show + Behind-the-Scenes Tour:
- Adult – €59.00
Address: Filzenboden 922, 6290 Mayrhofen
Map:
Ahorn Leisure Trail
The Ahorn Leisure Trail is a truly enjoyable walking path, perfect for the whole family and even accessible for strollers. This trail circles Ahorn Mountain and features a variety of fun attractions along the way. You can pause to admire the wonderful views from several observation points that look out over the Zillertal Valley and the Stilluptal Valley, including a unique observation deck shaped like an eagle’s nest. The trail also includes informative boards that teach you about the fascinating Alpine nature.
Furthermore, along the route, you’ll discover a small Alpine lake, Lake Ahorn, and the refreshing Ahorn Stream where you can cool your feet and revitalize yourself.
Between the mountain’s summit and the charming Ahornhütte hikers’ hut, there’s a delightful playground for the little ones. And near the Filzenalm hut, you’ll find a lovely petting zoo.
Video about the Experiential Trail:
To reach this wonderful trail, you’ll need to take the cable car to the top of the mountain.
Kunstraum Ahorn
In this special room, located at the upper cable car station, you’ll find a captivating exhibition of various paintings by talented local artists.
Funsportstation on Penken Mountain
Fancy a bit of sports at an altitude of 2,000 meters above sea level? If that sounds like your kind of fun, then you absolutely shouldn’t miss the sports activity area on Penken Mountain! The park offers a wide array of exciting activities, including zorbing on water, thrilling mountain scooters for downhill rides, cycling, slides, challenging via ferratas (climbing routes), and much more!
Important Information for Your Visit:
- Operating Hours: From May to October. Open every day from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
Cost:
- Zorbing: €7.00.
- Scooters (up to 4 hours usage):
- Adult – €12.50
- Child (up to 15 years old) – €7.00
Getting There:
You can reach the park by taking the Penkenbahn cable car, and then continue to the Kombibahn Penken.
Please note:
- Most activities in the park are suitable for children aged 7 and above, and with a minimum height of 1.30 meters.
- It’s important to know how to ride a bicycle for certain activities.
- Zorbing is suitable for children aged 5 and up. No prior instruction is needed. You can enjoy being inside the giant ball for up to 10 minutes.
- You must leave an ID as a deposit.
- Wearing a helmet is mandatory. Helmets and protectors can be borrowed for free at the park area.
- Dress code: It is highly recommended to arrive wearing closed shoes.
Address: Hauptstraße 472, 6290 Mayrhofen
Map:
Cable Cars
There are several convenient cable cars that will transport you from the town of Mayrhofen to the mountain peaks where all the exciting activities mentioned earlier are located.
Cable Cars to Ahorn Mountain:
- Ahornbahn: Operates from mid-June to the end of October, running from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM, with departures every half hour.
- Ahornbahn (second cable car): Operates in July and August starting at 7:30 AM. From mid-May to early October, it runs from 9:00 AM until 5:00 PM.
Penkenbahn
Kombibahn Penken
This cable car operates on the same dates. Ascents begin from 9:00 AM until 4:00 PM, with the last descent at 4:30 PM.
Please note: Operating times may vary depending on the expected (or unexpected) weather conditions.
You can also purchase the Zillertal Valley discount card to receive free cable car rides, among other benefits.
Additional Important Information
For more detailed information, you can visit the Official website of the attraction areas on the mountain peaks near Mayrhofen.
Address: Mayrhofen, 6290
Map:
More Attractions in the Area
Mayrhofen is perfectly situated in the heart of the Zillertal Valley, which is brimming with enjoyable activities. For comprehensive information about the Zillertal Valley and all the amazing activities it offers, be sure to read more here.
For those eager to experience skiing even in the summer months, this is indeed possible in the area around the Hintertux Glacier (Hintertux), located at a remarkable altitude of 3,250 meters above sea level. The ski resort on the glacier operates all year round! The journey to the glacier from Mayrhofen town takes a mere 20 minutes.
