The Tyrol region is truly a paradise for nature lovers, and sometimes it’s really hard to decide which of the picturesque valleys and towns to focus on. If you’re facing such a dilemma, you should definitely read about the Ötztal Valley in Western Tyrol. It’s not for nothing that the valley is considered one of the best destinations in the region and one of the most popular for travelers in all of Austria. We hope that after reading our comprehensive article on the valley, you’ll know exactly where you’re headed! For now, all we can say is that if you want to play it safe, head to Ötztal Valley, and you won’t regret it!
In this article, we’ve gathered all the important information about Ötz Valley, from general facts about the area to the small details you should know when planning your trip. You can navigate through the article sections by clicking on the links in the table of contents.
- Ötztal Valley – General Information and the 5 Main Villages for Accommodation and Attractions
- Recommended Accommodations in Ötztal Valley
- Weather in the Valley
- 10 Main Attractions in the Valley:
- Stuibenfall Waterfalls – The Highest Waterfalls in Tyrol
- Aqua Dome Spa – A Luxurious and Extra Large Water World
- AREA 47 Extreme Park
- Piburger See Lake
- Birds of Prey Park
- Ötzi Village
- Widiversum Playground
- Freizeitarena Sölden Entertainment Complex
- Timmelsjoch Alpine Road
- Ötztal Glacier Road
- Cable Cars to Mountain Peaks
- Hiking Trails in the Valley
- Winter Sports
- Recommended Restaurants and Mountain Huts
- Ötztal Valley Discount Cards
- Additional Essential Information
Before we dive into the detailed information about the valley, watch this magnificent area for yourself:
Ötztal Valley – General Information
The Alpine Ötztal Valley is located in the western part of the Tyrol region. The valley is about 65 kilometers long and separates the Stubai Alps and the Ötztal Alps. The high Alpine peaks surrounding it give it a truly picturesque appearance, whether in winter or summer, making it one of the most popular tourist valleys in all of Austria. The highest peak in the Ötztal Valley is the Wildspitze mountain. This mountain rises to an elevation of 3,770 meters above sea level and is second only to the mighty Grossglockner in Austria.
Innsbruck and Imst
The city of Innsbruck, the capital of Tyrol, is about an hour’s drive from the heart of the valley, and the town of Imst (famous mainly for its Alpine Coaster) is about half an hour’s drive from the heart of the valley. In the northern part of the Ötztal Valley, the large Inn River and the Ötztaler Ache River merge. The southern part of the valley reaches the border between Austria and Italy.
Along the Ötztal Valley, there are 5 main village areas:
1. Sautens
Located in the northern part of the valley (not far from the Area 47 attraction). The largest village in this area is also called Sautens. The village was built in an excellent location along the Ötztaler Ache River. The villagers are mainly engaged in agriculture and tourism. This area has excellent guesthouses for travelers visiting the valley. Check out recommended accommodations in Sautens.
2. Oetz
This area is located at the foot of the Acherkogel mountain, which rises to over 3,000 meters. The main village in this area is Oetz. Findings in the area prove that settlement in this village began as early as 2,000 years ago, but it was first mentioned in writings in the 13th century AD. The village buildings are ancient and beautiful, and the most prominent among them is the Gothic structure of the village’s parish church. Many tourists come specifically to this small village due to its proximity to the area’s popular tourist attractions, Lake Piburger See and Stuibenfall Waterfalls, and to enjoy a rafting experience on the nearby Ötztaler Ache River. Due to its popularity among travelers, the village has a variety of excellent guesthouses. Check out recommended accommodations in Oetz.
3. Umhausen
This area is located in the heart of the valley, near the intersection of the two high mountain ranges of the valley – the Stubai Alps and the Ötztal Alps. Approximately 4,000 residents live in this area. Umhausen is located right next to the impressive Stuibenfall Waterfalls and also has a wonderful Birds of Prey Park.
Archaeological findings in the village of Umhausen prove that this is the oldest settlement in the valley. The Umhausen area became even more famous thanks to the well-known Austrian film “The Sound of Music.” One of the central characters in the film lived and worked in a small village in this area. Check out recommended accommodations in Umhausen.
4. Längenfeld
A little south of Umhausen is the Längenfeld area, with about 21 small villages. This is the most populated area in the valley. It has ancient buildings such as a 14th-century Gothic-Baroque church and also a luxurious thermal pool complex and spa called Aqua Dome. If you want to be in the center of the valley, this is the area to stay in. Check out recommended accommodations in Längenfeld.
5. Sölden
If you’re a ski enthusiast, you’ve probably heard the name Sölden before. It’s a popular ski area that hosts international ski competitions every year. This area is home to the second-highest mountain in Austria after the famous Grossglockner mountain. The mountain is called Wildspitze, and it rises to an elevation of 3,768 meters above sea level.
The largest village in the area is also called Sölden and is located at an altitude of 1,368 meters above sea level. It’s an ancient village from the 13th century, and there’s even one ancient building called Berghof that still stands in the village today and serves as a guesthouse. In the Sölden area, Ötzi the Iceman was also found, which provides clear evidence of life in the area thousands of years ago.
From the village, there’s a paved road leading to the Rettenbach Glacier called the Ötztal Glacier Road. It’s the second-highest paved road in Europe.
In the south of the Sölden area, the village of Obergurgl is located at an altitude of 1,930 meters above sea level. It is the highest permanent settlement in Austria. Near this village is the Obergurgl-Hochgurgl ski area, and the mountain peaks in the area rise above 3,500 meters above sea level.
From a tourism perspective, Sölden is one of the most visited places in Austria after Vienna and Salzburg! Check out recommended accommodations in Sölden.
The valley offers activities for everyone throughout the year. Ski lovers can enjoy three well-developed ski resorts, and nature enthusiasts can explore a variety of mountain trails. Families will also find plenty of enjoyable attractions, not to mention those who love a bit of extreme sports.
Recommended Accommodations in Ötztal Valley
If you’re planning to stay in the valley, you can choose from a variety of excellent accommodations. We’ve put together a short list of some recommended places. You can click on each name to see updated reviews and prices.
- die berge lifestyle-hotel sölden – A 4-star hotel in the center of Sölden village with a fantastic Booking.com rating of 9.2.
- Vaya Sölden – A 4-star hotel in the center of Sölden village with a good Booking.com rating of 8.3.
- Hotel Enzian Hochsölden Superior – A 4-star superior hotel in Hochsölden at an altitude of 2,090 meters above sea level. With an impressive Booking.com rating of 9.4.
- Aqua Dome 4 Sterne Superior Hotel & Tirol Therme Längenfeld – A 4-star superior hotel in Längenfeld with an impressive Booking.com rating of 9.2. One of the most luxurious hotels in the valley, adjacent to the famous spa complex in Tyrol.
- Landhaus Ambachhof – Guesthouse apartments in Oetz village. Impressive Booking.com rating of 8.8.
- Villa Ambach – Guesthouse in Oetz village. Not far from the Area47 attraction. Good Booking.com rating of 8.7.
- Hotel Rita – A 4-star hotel in Längenfeld with an excellent Booking.com rating of 9.5. A hotel with a private spa and restaurant.
Weather in the Ötztal Valley
The high mountain peaks surrounding the valley act as a protective wall against cold winds from the north. As a result, the weather in the valley is very pleasant compared to other areas in Tyrol. In addition, the valley is considered one of the less rainy areas in Tyrol.
During the winter months, temperatures hover around 0 degrees Celsius during the day. In the summer months, you can enjoy comfortable temperatures averaging 20 degrees Celsius. Of course, if you ascend to higher peaks, you should consider that temperatures will be lower compared to the center of the valley.
As in all parts of Austria, the best way to prepare for a trip in terms of weather is to be ready for any scenario. It’s important to check the weather on the day you plan to go hiking in nature. Especially in the summer months, more rain falls, and even a sunny day can turn rainy within a few hours. The best way to deal with this situation is to dress in layers – thin clothing with warmer layers on top (it’s recommended to bring a rain and windproof jacket). A close umbrella in your bag or car will help you a lot!
You can check the weather forecast for the coming days in the valley here.
10 Main Attractions in Ötztal Valley
In this section, we’ve gathered all the recommended attractions in the Ötztal Valley. You’ll find all the essential details for visiting the various attractions in the valley.
Stuibenfall Waterfalls – The Highest Waterfalls in Tyrol – 159 meters
The well-maintained hiking trail and 5 beautiful viewing platforms up the mountain have made this place a must-see tourist attraction. If you’re not afraid of 700 steps, you can also climb to the upper parts of the waterfalls and enjoy a very special view.
Read more information in our extended article on Stuibenfall Waterfalls.
Aqua Dome Spa – A Luxurious and Extra Large Water World!
[Placeholder for image of Aqua Dome Spa, courtesy of their official Facebook page]The huge Aqua Dome spa center is located in the Längenfeld area in the center of the Ötztal Valley and is considered the best in the Alps! It’s a modern and beautifully designed complex that blends exceptionally well with the surrounding mountain peaks.There’s nothing like relaxing in the heated pools and gazing at the snow-capped peaks of the Alps.
Read more about Aqua Dome Spa.
AREA 47 Extreme Park – Europe’s Largest Extreme Park
At the entrance to the Ötztal Valley, not far from the Sautens area, there’s a huge park with lots of fun and extremely adventurous activities. The park is divided into several areas: a nature activities area, a climbing area, a water area, an off-road motorcycle area, a residential complex, an event area, and of course, a restaurant and food area.
Read more about the park in our extended article on AREA 47.
Piburger See Lake – The Warmest Swimming Lake in Tyrol!
In the heart of the impressive Ötztal Alps, there’s a truly magical lake: Lake Piburger See. The lake area is a wonderful nature reserve with lush, vibrant greenery and comfortable hiking trails. Read about hiking opportunities in the Lake Piburger.
Birds of Prey Park
In the Umhausen village area, not far from Stuibenfall Waterfalls, there’s a special attraction: a breeding and training center for birds of prey (Greifvogelpark Umhausen).
In the park, you can see about 30 impressive birds of prey, such as various species of eagles, owls, kites, falcons, ravens, and hawks. Every day, two bird of prey flight shows are held in the park’s large arena.
Read more information about visiting the Birds of Prey Park in Ötztal Valley.
Ötzi Village
Imagine what life was like on Earth 5,300 years ago! What did ancient humans look like, what did they wear, and how did they live? You can learn all about this at the Ötzi Village museum in the valley. The museum was established as a result of an amazing discovery unearthed in the Ötztal Alps. Read more information about the discovery and the museum in our extended article on Ötzi Village.
Widiversum Park
At an altitude of 2,020 meters above sea level, there’s a fun playground for the whole family with views you won’t see in other playgrounds! The interactive playground includes about 20 different play stations and 8 riddles for children on a journey to find the magical crystal stone. More information about visiting Widiversum Park.
Freizeitarena Sölden Entertainment Complex
If you don’t want to enter the Aqua Dome water park and spa or go to the Area47 extreme park, you can find a worthy alternative at the Sölden entertainment and fun center, which offers water activities, sports, and leisure for the whole family. Read more information in our extended article on the activities at the Sölden sports and recreation complex.
Timmelsjoch Alpine Road
The winding Alpine road (Timmelsjoch Hochalpenstrasse) passes between the peaks of the Ötztal Alps and connects the Ötztal Valley in Austria to the Passeier Valley in Italy. The road was built at an altitude of 2,474 meters, and along its length, there are several stations with interesting activities. Read more about the Ötztal Valley Alpine Road.
Ötztal Glacier Road (Ötztaler Gletscherstraße)
When you drive from the town of Sölden to the Tiefenbach-Rettenbach glacier area, you’ll be on this road. Similar to the Alpine Road, this route also offers breathtaking panoramic views. The road was built in 1972 at an altitude of 2,800 meters above sea level and is currently considered the second-highest road in Europe. You can read more information about this panoramic road in our extended article.
Cable Cars to Mountain Peaks
Throughout the valley, there are about 12 cable cars that operate during the summer and winter seasons. With their help, you can reach the mountain peaks easily and quickly. At the mountain peaks, there are pleasant hikers’ huts or restaurants with wonderful panoramic views. You can also embark on a variety of hiking trails in nature or spend time at the children’s playgrounds. In winter, they serve the many ski enthusiasts who come to the area to ski in six diverse ski resorts.
The addresses of the cable cars are below. Prices and operating hours can be found here via this link.
The active cable cars are:
- Drei-Seen-Bahn Kühtai: Ascent station address: Kühtai 10, 6183 Kühtai
- Ochsengarten Bahn: Ascent station address: Oetzerberg, 6433 Oetz
- Acherkogelbahn Oetz: Ascent station address: Angerweg 13, 6433 Oetz
- Gaislachkoglbahn Sölden: Ascent station address: Dorfstraße 115, 6450 Sölden
- Giggijochbahn Sölden: Ascent station address: Giggijochstraße 18, 6450 Sölden
- Langeggbahn Sesselbahn Sölden: Ascent station address: Dorfstraße 115, 6450 Sölden
- Tiefenbachbahn Sölden: Ascent station address: Sölden 6450
- Schwarze Schneid Bahn Sölden: Ascent station address: Gletscherstraße 34, 6450 Sölden
- Doppelsessellift Wildspitze Vent: Ascent station address: Franz-Senn-Weg 21, 6458 Vent
- Hohe Mut-Bahn Obergurgl: Ascent station address: Obergurgl
- Hochgurglbahn Hochgurgl: Ascent station address: Gurglerstraße 49, 6456 Obergurgl
- Top Wurmkogel Hochgurgl: Ascent station address: Gurglerstraße 49, 6456 Obergurgl
Hiking Trails in Ötztal Valley
It seems there’s no end to the activities in the Ötztal Valley! If the previous 10 attractions weren’t enough, you can enjoy the wonderful nature along 1,600 kilometers of marked trails between mountain peaks, beautiful lakes, and breathtaking scenery. There are so many great trails that it’s hard to choose, but we’ve picked two moderate difficulty day hikes here (if you’re with young children, it’s better to do the trail to Stuibenfall Waterfalls or Lake Piburger See).
Trail 1: The Miners’ Trail in Hochoetz – Circular Route
Until about 350 years ago, there were several copper, firestone, and galena mines in the Hochoetz area at a high altitude of 2,500 meters. The Miners’ Trail will lead you through the mountain peaks to the most important places used for this industry. You can visit a restored miners’ house and a small miners’ museum in the heart of the mountains.
This trail is circular and starts from the upper cable car station in Hochoetz, passing through the Balbach Alm mountain hut, Wörgltal valley, Wetterkreuzkogel peak, Bielefelder Hütte, and back to the starting point. The trail is not particularly difficult, but it requires a certain level of physical fitness and the ability to hike in the mountains.
Trail Description: After ascending by the cable car connecting Oetz village to Hochoetz (the cable car is called Acherkogelbahn), you can begin hiking the Miners’ Trail. The trail starts alongside the wide path up the mountain. Follow the signs leading to the Balbach Alm hut. Before reaching the hut, there will be a section descending towards the meadows, which will eventually lead to the Zwölferköpfl mountain. From there, the trail continues towards the Wörgltal valley, where an ancient, restored miners’ house is located. Not far from there is the small glacial lake Puchersee. From the valley, the trail continues with a rather steep ascent towards the Wetterkreuzkogel mountain peak, located at an altitude of 2,592 meters. At the peak, continue along the trail descending towards the Bielefelder Hütte hut. From the hut, you will need to walk a short distance back to the cable car station from which you started.
- Starting Point: Upper cable car station in Hochoetz
- Ending Point: Upper cable car station in Hochoetz
- Trail Length: 11 kilometers
- Hiking Duration: 6 hours
- Difficulty Level: Moderate
- Parking: Parking is available at the lower cable car station of the Acherkogelbahn in Oetz village. The parking lot is at Angerweg 13, 6433 Oetz.
Please note: A large part of the trail passes through unshaded areas. Be sure to bring a hat, plenty of water, and sunscreen.
Trail 2: Tiefenbachferner Glacier – Vent
This trail starts from the Tiefenbach Glacier in the Sölden area. The trail begins at an altitude of 2,800 meters and ends at an altitude of 1,900 meters in the small village of Vent. You can complete the trail at a brisk pace in 4 hours. Along the way, you’ll enjoy the breathtaking scenery of the Ötztal Alps, and at the end, you’ll get to enjoy a cold beer at one of the restaurants in the small village.
It’s recommended to take a bus from Sölden village to the glacier and start the trail according to the signs towards Vent village. From the small village, you can make your way back to Sölden by public transport. Information about buses in the valley.
- Starting Point: Tiefenbach Restaurant
- Ending Point: Vent
- Trail Length: 11 kilometers
- Hiking Duration: 4-5 hours
- Difficulty Level: Moderate
Winter Sports in Ötztal Valley
After the summer months and heat have passed, and the mountain peaks surrounding the valley are covered in layers of pristine white snow, the valley reawakens to new life and transforms into a high-quality, extensive ski world. Throughout the valley, there are about 6 ski resorts of various sizes with diverse slopes for all levels.
The ski resorts are:
1. Sölden – The Largest Ski Resort in Ötztal Valley
Sölden is a household name when it comes to skiing. It’s a huge ski resort with about 144 kilometers of diverse slopes. It’s also known as BIG3 because it’s the only ski resort that includes three mountain peaks above 3,000 meters – Gaislachkogl mountain, rising to 3,058 meters, Tiefenbachkogl mountain, rising to 3,250 meters, and Schwarze Schneide mountain, rising to 3,340 meters.Get a glimpse of this wonderful ski resort!
The ski slopes are divided as follows: 70 kilometers of easy trails, 45 kilometers of intermediate trails, 27 kilometers of difficult trails, and 2 kilometers of ski routes.The longest slope in the ski resort extends for 15 kilometers and reaches the Gaislachkoglbahn valley. About a quarter of the slopes are in the Tiefenbach – Rettenbach glacier area and are open from October to May. It’s possible to ski between the three high mountains at once without interruptions – this is a 50-kilometer route.On the summit of Gaislachkogl mountain, there’s a restaurant called Ice Q. This restaurant appeared in the James Bond film Spectre.
More information about this ski resort.
2. Obergurgl-Hochgurgl
At the southernmost tip of the Ötztal Valley, there’s a high-altitude ski resort (2,000-3,000 meters above sea level). This ski resort has about 110 kilometers of various ski slopes. The slopes are suitable for everyone, from beginners to advanced skiers.
More information about this ski resort.
3. Hochoetz – Kühtai
This ski resort combines two peaks and offers about 80 kilometers of ski slopes for all levels. At this ski resort, you can also ski at night every Wednesday and Saturday from 7:30 PM to 10:00 PM. If you’re looking for a place that combines skiing and romance, you can spend nights in the igloo village of this ski resort. It’s a truly unique experience.
More information about this ski resort.
4. Vent
A small ski resort in the southern part of the valley, right at the foot of Wildspitze mountain. The ski resort starts at the open cable car station at an altitude of 1,900 meters and reaches an altitude of 2,680 meters at its upper part. The slopes are suitable for beginners, advanced skiers, and families (there’s a dedicated children’s area called Kinderland). This resort has 15 kilometers of ski slopes.
More information about this ski resort.
The area has a restaurant with panoramic views and a fun 5-kilometer long alpine coaster from the Stablein Alm hikers’ hut. The cable car reaches the point where the alpine coaster track begins.The ski pass at this ski resort also grants access to the slopes at the large Sölden ski resort, which is a short drive away.
5. Niederthai
This ski resort is small but beautiful. It has especially easy trails for families and beginner skiers.
More information about this ski resort.
6. Gries
A tiny ski resort with two small slopes and a training area for beginners. Especially suitable for families with children.
More information about this ski resort.
Recommended Restaurants and Mountain Huts
In the Ötztal Valley, there are about 150 restaurants and mountain huts offering authentic Austrian cuisine or a diverse international menu. It’s especially enjoyable to sit in the hikers’ huts on the mountain peaks and enjoy the breathtaking panoramic views while savoring some typical Austrian dishes.
We’ve compiled some of the best places:
- TOP Mountain Star A restaurant with a magnificent viewing platform overlooking the mountains and the valley. The place has a panorama bar where you can sit and leisurely drink while enjoying the breathtaking view. Address: Wurmkogel, 6456 Hochgurgl. Website
- Pipurger Speicher A pleasant and delicious restaurant on the shores of the picturesque Piburger See Lake. You can taste a variety of lake fish. Address: Piburger See
- Gasthaus Blaue Goas A traditional inn with a charming wooden design. Authentic Austrian cuisine. Address: Hauptstraße 39, 6433 Oetz
- Gasthof Andreas Hofer A family-run traditional restaurant with authentic Austrian cuisine. Address: Hintere G. 8, 6441 Umhausen
- Gasthof Krone e.U. A traditional restaurant with a diverse menu – soups, meats, desserts, and more. Address: Dorf 30, 6441 Umhausen | Website link
- Bielefelderhütte A beautiful hikers’ hut with a great view from the mountaintop. Authentic Austrian menu and a warm, pleasant atmosphere. Address: Oetzerberg 54, 6433 Oetz | Website link
- Zirben Alm Kletterbrücke A well-maintained and pleasant restaurant right on the ski slopes of the Obergurgl Hochgurgl ski resort. Authentic Austrian menu. Address: Gaisbergweg 25, 6456 Obergurgl | Website link
An extended list of restaurants from all over the valley can be found here.
Ötztal Valley Discount Cards
As in every region of Austria, you can purchase a discount card for activities throughout the valley. There are two cards: the Ötztal Card and the Ötztal Premium Card.
Ötztal Card
This card is for visitors to the valley who are not staying overnight or are staying in accommodation that does not participate in the Premium Card program. It is a personal card that allows access to various attractions throughout the valley for a number of days (depending on the purchase). Unlimited use of cable cars incurs an additional fee.
The card starts from €56 for three days for an adult and €28 for a child.
The attractions included in the card vary by season, so you should check directly on the official website. More information.
You can purchase the card at the tourist offices scattered throughout the various villages. Click here for a consolidated list of all sales points.
Ötztal Premium Card
If you stay at a hotel or guesthouse that participates in the card program, you can receive the Premium Card for the duration of your stay and enjoy all the attractions and activities in the valley free of charge!
Please note: There is an additional charge for unlimited use of cable cars.
Here is a list of hotels and guesthouses that cooperate and provide guests with this discount card.
More information about the card.
Additional Essential Information about Ötztal Valley
Address: Ötztal
How to Get There?
The most convenient way, of course, is to arrive by private car. This way, you’ll have flexibility throughout the day and can travel wherever you wish. If you don’t want to drive, you can take a train to the Ötztal Bahnhof train station and from there take a regional bus that passes between the valley villages or take a taxi directly to your hotel.
Map:
Additional Attractions in the Vicinity of Ötztal Valley
The adventurous Imst Alpine Coaster is a fantastic Alpine Coaster that operates all year round. The length of the coaster track is about 3.5 kilometers, and in several sections, the track is 6 meters above the ground!
If you are interested in continuing to more breathtaking natural sites, you can drive about an hour towards the city of Innsbruck and stop in the beautiful Stubai Valley, which offers a variety of attractions and outdoor activities. Another option is to continue to the Ziller Valley, one of the popular valleys for hiking trails and nature activities.
