We’ve compiled all the most important information about the Stubai Valley and its attractions. You can navigate through the article by clicking on the links in the table of contents:
- The Main Villages in the Stubai Valley
- Weather
- Main Attractions – General Summary
- What to Do in the Valley in Summer?
- What to Do in the Stubai Valley in Winter?
- Additional Essential Information
- Other Nearby Places
The Main Villages in the Stubai Valley
1. Neustift im Stubaital
This small village is well-known in Tyrol, especially for its proximity to the Stubai Glacier. It’s a preferred accommodation spot for many travelers who come to ski on the snow of the enormous glacier – the largest in Austria. This area boasts around 109 mountain peaks over 3,000 meters high. Check out recommended accommodations in Neustift on Booking.
2. Schönberg im Stubaital
This village is located at the foot of the high Serles mountain, just 10 kilometers from Innsbruck. The village sits at an altitude of 1013 meters and is essentially where the Wipptal Valley and the Stubai Valley converge. The village is situated at an important point along the trade route between north and south, with the main road leading to Italy passing nearby. This road crosses the beautiful and high Europe Bridge (a popular spot for bungee jumping). In the mountains adjacent to the village, there are a variety of hiking and cycling trails. In winter, a ski resort operates in the area. Check out recommended accommodations in Schönberg on Booking.
3. Mieders
This small village lies at the foot of Mount Serles, about 11 kilometers south of Innsbruck. Settled in the Middle Ages, it once thrived on mineral mining, leaving behind historic buildings with striking Baroque ceiling paintings. If you pass through, stop by the old water mill (Alte Mühle). An open cable car also takes visitors to the 2,718-meter summit of Mount Serles for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
A popular attraction in this village is the long mountain coaster (2.8 kilometers) that starts from the upper cable car station. You can slide down at high speed back to the valley.
For nature lovers, a hike to Mount Blaser, rich in diverse and impressive alpine vegetation, is recommended. During the winter months, ski slopes operate in the Serlesbahnen area or in the nearby Schlick 2000 complex.
Check out recommended accommodations in Mieders on Booking.
4. Fulpmes
This small village gained fame mainly because its residents speak a unique dialect different from the rest of Austria. Only here will you hear the rolling “R” and completely understand that you have no idea what they are saying. Apart from the residents’ unique dialect, another attraction is the old electric train that connects the village to Innsbruck. This train has been operating for about 100 years (of course, it has been renovated since its establishment). The famous ski jumper Gregor Schlierenzauer was born in this village. Check out recommended accommodations in Fulpmes on Booking.
Weather
Most activities in the Stubai Valley are outdoors, so it’s best to check the weather forecast on the day of your visit. Conditions can change quickly, and temperatures can shift overnight, turning a warm, sunny day into a cold, cloudy one.
Winter is generally drier than summer, with valley temperatures ranging from −1°C to −4°C, and much colder conditions on the peaks and glacier. Summer is mild, with daytime temperatures between 16°C and 25°C and an average of about 13 rainy days.
You can check the current temperatures here.
In any case, it’s always advisable to bring an umbrella and dress in layers – thinner, shorter clothing underneath, topped with longer clothing (preferably rain and windproof).
Main Attractions
The beautiful valley offers a variety of recommended attractions and activities, whether you visit in winter or summer. The valley is suitable for everyone – travelers who love hiking in nature or those who simply want to relax and enjoy the mountain scenery and fresh air. In summer, many hikers come to do the famous trail called Stubai High Trail (Stubaier Höhenweg). This is a very long trail that takes between 8 and 9 days. The hiking trail is circular and starts from the village of Neustift. Most of the trail is at an altitude of 2,000-3,000 meters above sea level.
The peaks around the valley feature eight mountain huts, plenty of rest stops, and scenic trails like the Wilde Wasser Weg, which leads to the impressive Grawa Waterfalls.
In winter, the area becomes home to four excellent ski resorts, including the Stubai Glacier, Austria’s largest. Additional highlights include the ice cave on the glacier and the Birds of Prey Park near the village of Telfes.
When the lower ski resorts close and the snow melts, they transform into scenic hiking areas with panoramic viewpoints, such as Schlick2000 and Elfer Mountain, both easily reached by cable car. Another must-see is the Top of Tyrol observation deck, located at the edge of the stunning Stubai Glacier and considered one of the world’s best viewpoints.
If you are staying in Stubai, ask your guesthouse host for the Stubai Guest Card so you can enjoy discounts and benefits during your stay.
What to Do in the Valley in Summer?
The summer season is perfect for nature and water excursions. The Stubai Valley is abundant with hiking trails, via ferrata climbing routes, and water attractions. To reach some of the attractions and trails, you will need to take one of the cable cars that operate during the summer months.
1. Top of Tyrol Observation Deck (Recommended!)
An amazing observation deck like this you’ll probably only see in 9 other places worldwide. And it’s not just a random number we chose; this observation deck was selected as one of the 10 most beautiful in the world! The spot is located at an altitude of 3,210 meters above sea level. The observation deck protrudes about 9 meters from the edge of the mountain, offering views of the entire area, even reaching the Dolomites.
This is what the View from the Observation Deck looks like
2. Stubai Mountain Coaster
A thrilling and fun experience. This is the steepest alpine coaster in the world, located in the village of Mieders. The track is 2.8 kilometers long, and the maximum speed you can reach is 42 km/h. To comfortably reach the start of the mountain coaster track, you need to take the cable car from Mieders village.
This is what the Mountain Coaster looks like
Official Website
- Cable car cost: Adult (one way) – €9.90 per ride. Child – from €6.70
- Cable car address: Waldrasterweg 1, 6142 Mieders
- Mountain coaster ride cost: Adult €9.90 per ride. Child – from €6.00
- Mountain Coaster address: Koppeneck, 6142 Mieders
Map:
3. STUBAY Water Park
A water park with several indoor and outdoor pools, a slide, and a children’s pool. The park also has a sauna complex, a gym, and a restaurant. The location is in the village of Telfes.
Official Website
Cost: A two-hour entry costs €13.70 for an adult and €8.70 for a child. You can, of course, stay longer for an additional fee.
Address: Landesstraße 111, 6165 Telfes im Stubai
4. Via Ferrata Trails
Adventure climbing enthusiasts can find a variety of challenging and enjoyable options in the Stubai Valley. These trails are characterized by combining ladders, iron steps on the sides of the mountain, and iron ropes. To do these trails, special equipment is required, which can be rented from various shops throughout the valley. Some of the trails are suitable for beginners, while others are for experienced climbers. A list of trails can be found on the valley’s official website.
5. White Water Rafting
The rushing Ruetz River is especially suitable for extremely challenging rafting. In small groups of up to 8 people, with a dedicated guide and professional equipment, you can paddle down the river and tackle the mighty current. Rafting takes place during the summer season from May to September.
- Trail length: 6 kilometers
- Difficulty level: Medium
- Requirements: Ability to swim, basic physical fitness, age 16 and above
- Price: 39 Euro per person (includes transfer to the starting point, rafting, and safety equipment)
- More information on the website.
6. Birds of Prey Park in Telfes (Greifvogelpark)
This park is actually a rehabilitation and recovery center for birds of prey that have been injured or fallen ill. After the treatment and recovery period, the birds are released back into nature. In the park, you can see about 50 birds of prey of various types, such as eagles or owls. Most of the birds are European species, and only one eagle originates from America. A visit to the park is an opportunity to learn about the world of birds of prey and at the same time help their rehabilitation. The park is mostly funded by visitor entrance fees.
Official Website
- Opening hours: Mid-May to end of October, daily from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Birds of prey flight show at 3:00 PM.
- Cost: Adult – 7 Euro. Child (from age 6) – 4 Euro
- Address: Telfes, Tirol, 6165 Österreich
7. Ice Cave in Neustift
Beneath the edge of the Stubai Glacier lies a hidden ice cave about 30 meters below the surface, at 3,000 meters above sea level. Open year-round, it features shimmering blue ice naturally sculpted over centuries and offers insights into glaciers and the alpine environment. The cave is reached by an easy walk from the Eisgratbahn cable car’s upper station—warm clothing and sturdy shoes are recommended.
- Operating hours: End of December to early May, July to end of September. Daily from 11:30 AM to 3:30 PM.
- Cost: Adult – 6 Euro. Child (ages 10 to 18) – 3 Euro. Children under 10 enter for free.
- Official Website
8. Schlick2000 Visitor Center Observation Deck
The beloved ski resort transforms into a magnificent observation deck in summer, offering breathtaking views of the entire area and serving as a starting point for enjoyable hiking trails. Comfortably reach the top of the mountain by cable car and walk towards the StubaiBlick observation deck, from which you can overlook the entire valley and the magnificent surrounding peaks.
9. Europe Bridge (Europabrücke)
This bridge is located south of Innsbruck and crosses the Wipp Valley just before the beginning of the Stubai Valley. The bridge is 777 meters long and serves as part of the Austrian A13 motorway connecting Western Austria to South Tyrol in Italy. The bridge offers impressive views of the Alps. From the bridge, you can bungee jump from a height of 192 meters – this is the 5th highest bungee jump in the world.
This is what a Bungee Jump from the Bridge looks like (for the brave only!)
- Operating hours: You can jump from the bridge from May 5th to October 21st. Every Saturday and Sunday. Off-season from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM and in-season from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM.
- Cost: A jump booked in advance costs 159 Euro.
- Address: Europabrückenplatz 1, 6143 Schönberg im Stubaital
- More information on the Official Website
10. Hiking Trails
Stubai is a paradise for nature lovers. The combination of the high Alps and the large valley creates countless possibilities for excursions throughout the region. The hiking trails are suitable for all types of hikers. There are simple and short trails for those who don’t like to walk much, and also long multi-day trails for true trekkers. At the end of the hiking trails, you can rest and refresh in the hikers’ huts and gaze at the magnificent view from the window. The recommended trails are:
Easy Trails
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Seduck – Stöcklalm Guesthouse – Oberissalm Guesthouse Trail
The trail starts from Seduck, where you can park. From the starting point, walk through the Oberberg Valley, across the bridge, and through the fields. In the valley, cross the stream and continue towards the Stöcklalm Guesthouse. You can stop at the guesthouse to refresh or simply continue along the stream on the left side of the valley. The signs along the way will lead you towards the Oberissalm Guesthouse. You can return the same way.
- Duration: 2 hours without breaks
- Starting and ending point: Seduck
- Suitable season: During the summer months when there is no snow
- Guesthouses are open from May to October.
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Wiesenweg Neder – Fulpmes Trail
The trail starts from the parking lot behind the bus station in Neder. From the starting point, walk along the Wiesenweg path to Kampler Lake, which has playground facilities for children. At the lake, continue across the bridge to the left side of the valley towards Fulpmes. Pass the Rastbichlhof Guesthouse, then turn left after the small bridge. From there, continue past the Gröbenhof Guesthouse towards the center of Fulpmes village. When you reach the village church, which is after the fire station, turn and walk towards the Gasthof Jenewein Guesthouse and from there to the valley. After passing Medraz, return to the Wiesenweg path and make your way back towards the starting point.
- Duration: 2 to 2.5 hours without breaks
- Starting and ending point: Neder
- Suitable season: All year round
- Guesthouses are open all year round.
- You can return from Fulpmes by bus.
Medium Difficulty Trail
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WildeWasserWeg (Wild Water Trail)
This trail is divided into 3 parts, and you don’t have to do all of them (the first part is simple and accessible for strollers). You can do only the first part of the trail and reach the waterfalls in less than an hour’s walk. Experienced hikers can continue along the trail to the impressive glacier.
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Part 1: From Tschangelair Alm to Grawa Waterfall
The trail starts along the Ruetz River and winds through lush vegetation and fruit trees into the valley. Around a bend, the highlight appears: the impressive Grawa Waterfalls, the widest in the Eastern Alps. Their flow varies by season—gentle in autumn and powerful in summer as snowmelt swells the cascade. A viewing “balcony” lets you watch the water plunge dramatically below.
Please note: This part of the trail is also suitable for strollers and older hikers. If you are in a wheelchair, you will need assistance from an escort.
- Duration: 45 minutes.
- Starting point: Tschangelair Alm (parking available nearby).
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Part 2: Grawa Waterfall – Sulzenau Alm – Sulzenauhütte
After admiring the Grawa Waterfalls, continue on the more challenging section of the trail, climbing above them toward the glacier and the beautiful Sulzenaufall waterfalls. This stretch requires good fitness and sturdy hiking shoes. After about an hour, you’ll reach Sulzenegg, then follow the path to the Sulzenaualm hut, with sweeping glacier views along the way.
From there, continue to the powerful Sulzenaufall, where water plunges 200 meters into a lush valley, often shimmering with color in the afternoon sun. The trail ends at the Sulzenauhütte, a perfect spot to rest and enjoy the stunning scenery.
- Duration of this part: 2.5 hours
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Part 3: Sulzenauhütte – Sulzenauferner
The last part of the trail will lead you from the hut towards the Sulzenauferner Glacier. After a short walk, you will reach the glacial lake Blaue Lacke, and from there, continue along the valley. You can admire the glacier in this area. Additionally, at the end of the trail, you will have a wonderful view of the snowy Zuckerhütl peak.
- Duration of this part is 1 hour and 20 minutes.
Difficult Trails
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Seven Summits
This is actually not one single trail but simply climbing the seven highest peaks of the valley. You can climb the mountains: Zuckerhütl (soaring to 3,507 meters), Wilde Freiger (soaring to 3,418 meters), Habicht (soaring to 3,277 meters), Rinnenspitze (soaring to 3,003 meters), Serles (soaring to 2,717 meters), Burgstall (soaring to 2,611 meters), and Elfer (soaring to 2,505 meters).
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Stubaier Höhenweg
This trail is considered one of the most beautiful in the Alps, but due to its serious length (100 kilometers) and high altitude, it poses a challenge. This trail is suitable for hikers in good physical condition with the ability to climb high mountains. More detailed information can be found on the Stubai Region’s Website.
What to Do in the Stubai Valley in Winter?
During the winter months, the valley is covered in pristine white snow, transforming the area into a bustling and highly active ski resort. In fact, there are 4 ski areas throughout the valley:
- Schlick2000: Twenty-six kilometers of diverse slopes with varying difficulty levels. More information on the official website of the ski resort.
- Elfer Mountain (Elfer): Challenging ski slopes for experienced and professional skiers. More information on the official website of the ski resort.
- Serles Mountain: Easy slopes primarily suitable for families with children and beginner skiers. More information can be found on the official website of the ski resort.
- Stubai Glacier: The largest glacial ski resort in Austria! Snow-covered from October to June!
The Stubai Glacier ski resort is not just for professionals; families and beginners can also enjoy its snowy slopes (this resort is considered one of the best for families among Tyrol’s ski resorts). The ski resort is located at an altitude of 3,210 meters above sea level, right at the end of the Stubai Valley.
For families, this is a real attraction. There are children’s areas with professional staff who will supervise the children while parents ski, children’s restaurants, a nice obstacle course, and a snow carousel.
For experienced skiers, there are plenty of options with challenging and diverse slopes.
Additional Essential Information for Your Visit
Address: Stubaital, Tirol
Map:
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