Mayrhofen: exceptional itineraries in the heart of Tyrol

Mayrhofen is the main tourist center of the Zillertal, located at the very end of the valley just below a mountain which blocks the main axis of the valley, the Ahorn.

The village is crossed by the Ziller torrent which flows into the basin of Mayrhofen after crossing the Zillergrund from its source. Other torrents descend from the Zillertal Alps through other valleys that end at Mayrhofen, each crossing a pretty valley that deserves a nice discovery hike.

The four valleys which converge on the valley of Mayrhofen are :

• The Zillergrund,
• The Stillupgrund,
• The Zemmtal,
• The Tuxertal,

To these we can add a final large valley, which opens out at Zell am Ziller, the Gerlostal, an important passage route through the Gerlospass towards the Salzburg Alps and central Austria.

Let's discover the specificities of each of these valleys which surround Mayrhofen and which constitute the treasure of Zillertal Alps.

The Zillergrund joins the Zillertal at Mayrhofen

Le Ziller background is a picturesque side valley of the Zillertal, extending from Mayrhofen to the surrounding mountains. This valley is renowned for its unspoilt nature and breathtaking landscapes. This is where the Ziller River originates, at an altitude of 2 metres, in the heart of the Zillertal Alps, near the Italian border. This river gave its name to both the Zillergrund and the Zillertal.

To access the Ziller background, a road, part of which is a toll road, starts from Mayrhofen and winds for about 14 kilometres through remarkable Alpine landscapes. The Zillergrund is a long valley, measuring 25 kilometres, at the bottom of which flows the Ziller. It is a valley with a very steep appearance, especially at the beginning in the first kilometres from Mayrhofen. Then towards Nösslrain, it widens, and for several kilometres the slope is relatively gentle, up to the hamlet In der Au, which, in the middle of a beautiful wide valley, marks the beginning of the climb to the final part of the valley. In summer, numerous waterfalls mark the route.

The public road ends at the hamlet of Bear Bad, where parking is available. From there, it takes between 1 and 1,5 hours of walking (4km) to reach the Zillergründl Dam. Cyclists benefit from a lit tunnel on the route to facilitate their ascent. Alternatively, a public bus runs through the valley, allowing visitors to access the dam directly.

This dam, built between 1974 and 1988, is at the origin of one of the main attractions of the valley: the reservoir Zillergrund. This lake, located at an altitude of 1 meters, covers an area of ​​850 hectares and reaches a maximum depth of 140 meters. It is surrounded by majestic mountains and offers a peaceful setting, ideal for hikers and cyclists.

At the dam, the best viewpoint is at the Valentine Chapel. It is a chapel from which the panorama of the lake and the mountains that surround it is splendid and very inspiring. The only downside is that you need to have strong legs to get there. In fact, it is located at an altitude of more than 2200 meters, that is to say four hundred meters above the lake! A hike, within the hike!

After the dam, a well-maintained path runs along the lake to the alpine pasture of Hohenaualm, also known as "Little Tibet". This name was given by a resident of Zillertal, due to the striking resemblance of the landscape to that of Tibet. The path is lined with Tibetan prayer flags and signs bearing inspirational quotes, creating a unique spiritual atmosphere. The Hohenaualm mountain pasture offers visitors a welcome stopover, with local specialties and breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks.

Lake Zillergrund is surrounded by stunning alpine scenery, offering hiking opportunities to destinations such as the Plauener Hütte, located at 2 metres above sea level. Although swimming and water sports are not permitted in the lake, visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of the surroundings and the various outdoor activities on offer.

Le Ziller background is also a popular place for observing alpine wildlife, including the ibex. Information points offer a better understanding of these emblematic animals of the Alps. Visitors can learn more about their habitat, behavior and ongoing conservation efforts.

To explore the Zillergrund, there are several transport options available to you:

By car : From Mayrhofen, a toll road leads to the hamlet of Bärenbad, where the last parking lot accessible to private vehicles is located. From there, it is about a 1 to 1,5 hour walk to the Zillergründl dam. The road is scenic, winding for about 14 kilometers through remarkable Alpine scenery.

By bus: A public bus service runs from Mayrhofen to the Zillergründl Dam. The 8328 bus departs from Mayrhofen train station and stops at several stops all the way to the dam. The timetable varies, with departures usually between 10:20 and 15:20. It is recommended to check the latest timetable before you travel.

On foot or by bike: Hiking and cycling enthusiasts can follow well-marked trails from Bärenbad to the dam. The route offers panoramic views of the valley and the surrounding mountains. Cyclists can also transport their bikes by bus, subject to availability.

The peaceful village of Brandberg and its panoramas over the Zillertal

The climb to brandberg, a small village perched on a balcony, at an altitude of 1000 meters, at the entrance to the Ziller background makes for a lovely stroll from Mayrhofen. The village, very quiet, nestles around its typical church. Each house is meticulously decorated. The village seems to be placed in the middle of the slope of one of the slopes overlooking the Ziller, but in reality it is located there, where the sun, even in the darkest moment of winter, manages to place its rays through the ridges of the opposite slope. The elders avoided places in the shade in winter in order to avoid the accumulation of snow cover and cold air.

From Brandberg, two nice walks are possible. One towards the heart of the Ziller background to the secluded hamlet of Ritzl. It is a short walk through a small forest before reaching the first houses clinging to the slope. The view of the first part of the Zillergrund is striking. One is captivated both by the depth of the valley which plunges into the Alps of Zillertal and by the height above the valley floor where the Ziller flows. From Ritzl, one can better grasp the strategic position of Brandberg, on a small sunny plateau.

Ritzl is the starting point for many hikes: just follow the forest paths.

Let's go back to Brandberg and head in the opposite direction along a small path going up towards Emberg. We pass by a few farms, even cross one before arriving at a high point above the Mayrhofen valley. The main peaks surrounding the tourist resort appear in all their dizzying height. The Ahorn and the Penken, accessible by ski lifts from the centre of the village of Mayrhofen seem to drop sheer from here onto the flat valley. You can also see the entrance to the other side valleys that end up in the Zillertal, known as "Inner Grounds", whose sunny curve of the Tux Valley.

Exactly, let’s go discover these other valleys.

The Stillupgrund, wild side valley of the Zimmertal

Le Stillupground, also called Stilluptal, is a picturesque side valley of the Zillertal, extending for about 17 kilometres from Mayrhofen to the heart of the Zillertal Alps. This valley is renowned for its unspoilt nature and wild alpine landscapes.

The road to the Stillupground leads in a few bends to a long reservoir. Then it continues to Stapfenalm at about 1600 meters above sea level. It is a very beautiful valley for walking, because the bottom is flat, especially in its central part, after the lake. The difference in altitude is very gradual and its orientation makes it bright and sunny. In the background, you can see the glaciers clinging to the Wollbachspitze, a border peak that culminates at 3200 meters above sea level. The valley is quite long. The ideal is therefore to start the hike from the lake.

Historically, the Stillupground has never been home to permanent settlements. However, as early as the 17th century, its mountain pastures were used for grazing. In the 18th and 19th centuries, the valley experienced mining activity with the extraction of minerals such as garnet from Zillertal, quartz and amethyst, particularly around the Stapfenalm, where mining activity was in full swing.

One of the valley's main attractions is Stillup Reservoir, created in 1969 for hydroelectric power generation and flood protection. This man-made lake, surrounded by majestic mountains, offers a peaceful setting for hiking and biking.

To access the Stillupground, a toll road runs from Mayrhofen and leads to the reservoir. This road, initially a simple forest path, was improved when the dam was built. Bus and alpine taxi services also provide access to more distant points in the valley, such as the Gasthof Wasserfall, the Stillupperhaus or the Grüne-Wand-Hütte, thus facilitating access for hikers and mountaineers.

Stillupgrund is also a starting point for hikes to alpine huts, including the Kasseler Hütte, located at 2 metres above sea level. This hut serves as a base for climbs to peaks such as the Wollbachspitze (177 m) or for crossings to other valleys via passes such as the Lapenscharte.

The valley is home to a rich biodiversity, with colourful alpine flora and fauna including chamois, marmots and a wide variety of birds of prey. More than 500 species of butterflies have been recorded there, testifying to the quality of its ecosystem.

Walks in thein Zemmtal, very close to Mayrhofen

The valley of the Zemmtal, also known as Zemmground, is one of the remarkable side valleys of the Zillertal, located in the Austrian Tyrol. Extending from Mayrhofen towards the southeast, it offers privileged access to the heart of the Zillertal Alps, especially towards the Zillertal High Alps Nature Park.

This valley is renowned for its breathtaking alpine scenery, characterised by dense forests, lush green meadows and majestic peaks often exceeding 3200 metres in altitude.

La Zemmtal is thus an ideal starting point for various hikes and mountain excursions. Well-marked trails lead visitors through varied landscapes, from flowering alpine pastures to impressive rock formations. Mountain huts, such as the Berliner Hütte, offer resting points and accommodation for those who wish to explore the region further.

To access the Zemmtal valley, visitors can take roads from Mayrhofen, leading to designated trailheads and parking areas. It is important to note that since 2017, mineral and fossil collecting has been prohibited in the Zemm Gorge (Zemmschlucht) in order to preserve the natural integrity of the area.

The main village of the Zemmtal is Ginzling, a charming alpine hamlet located at around 1 meters above sea level. Ginzling is renowned for its peaceful atmosphere, surrounded by imposing peaks and unspoiled natural landscapes. The village serves as a starting point for numerous hikes and mountain excursions. Nearby, the hamlet of Dornauberg also offers a glimpse into traditional Tyrolean rural life.

At the end of the valley of the Zemmtal, the Schlegeis reservoir is a major attraction. Situated at an altitude of 1 metres, this artificial reservoir is surrounded by majestic Alpine peaks. The Schlegeis Dam, with a height of 782 metres, is an impressive feat of engineering. Visitors can take a scenic drive to the lake, offering spectacular views along the way. Benches on the shore provide a place to rest while gazing out over the lake and the glaciers that adorn the border ridges between the Grosser Möseler (131 metres) and the Hochfeiler at 3480 metres. Once there, hiking trails lead around the lake and to alpine huts, allowing visitors to explore the natural beauty of the area.

One of the most beautiful panoramic points in the region is located on the side of the Olpererhütte. Two hours of walking and 600 meters of altitude difference are necessary to reach this modern refuge at more than 2300 meters of altitude. The plunging view of the blue lake is striking, as is the passage of a suspension bridge nearby which allows to take magnificent very aerial photos.

The valley is accessible from Mayrhofen via roads leading to Ginzling. Parking is available for visitors wishing to explore the area. It is recommended to inquire about weather conditions and routes before planning an excursion, to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

The Tuxertal and its glacier, the pearl of the Zillertal

La Tux Valley is a picturesque side valley of the Zillertal, located in the Austrian Tyrol. Stretching approximately 13 kilometers from Mayrhofen until Tux Glacier, the valley is dotted with charming alpine villages offering a multitude of activities throughout the year.

After a short climb, at the entrance to the Tux Valley is the village of Finkenberg, perched at an altitude of 840 metres. This typical Tyrolean village is surrounded by impressive mountain scenery and serves as a starting point for numerous hikes and outdoor activities. Visitors can also access the ski area shared with Mayrhofen on the slopes of the Penken via the local ski lifts.

Then a few bends cut into the bottom of a very narrow wooded valley allow you to reach the next village. At about 1 meters above sea level, there is Tux-Vorderlanersbach. This village is renowned for its direct access to the Rastkogel ski area, linked to the neighbouring resorts of Penken et Eggalm, thus offering an extensive network of trails for winter sports enthusiasts. In summer, the hiking trails lead to green mountain pastures and offer panoramic views of the valley. Indeed, the village stretches its habitat along beautiful sunny slopes. Several hamlets accessible by road or paths offer beautiful views of the valley.

Nearby, and only slightly higher, is Tux-Lanersbach, the cultural and administrative heart of the valley. This village has been home to the main parish since 1891, whose needle-shaped, red-coloured bell tower is typical of Tyrolean villages. Lanersbach offers various tourist facilities, including hotels, restaurants and shops. The Eggalm ski lifts provide easy access to the slopes in winter and to the hiking trails in summer. From the village, which stretches along the main road between the green mountain slopes, you can start to see the Tux Glacier

Further upstream, the village of June stretches along the valley at an altitude of 1 metres. This peaceful hamlet is ideal for those seeking peace and quiet and nature. Visitors can discover a traditional mill that is still in operation, testifying to the cultural heritage of the region. In addition, illuminated toboggan runs offer fun for the whole family.

The village of Madseit, located at 1 metres above sea level, is a small hamlet offering an authentic atmosphere with its family-run hotels and guest houses. The valley narrows here, creating a spectacular alpine landscape, with a beautiful view of the glacial landscapes above Hintertux. Wellness enthusiasts can enjoy the local thermal springs, renowned for their relaxing properties.

At the end of the valley, at an altitude of 1 meters, is Hintertux, dominated by the majestic glacier of the same name. This hamlet is famous for its year-round ski area, offering 62 kilometres of perfectly groomed slopes. Visitors can also explore natural wonders such as the “Natural Ice Palace” and the Spannagel Cave, the highest tourist cave in Europe. The panoramic terrace at 3 metres offers breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks. When you return from your day on the glacier, the thermal waters of the valley will offer you a moment of pause, relaxation and recovery.

La Tux Valley is a destination of choice for lovers of nature and outdoor activities. Each village, with its unique character, contributes to the charm and appeal of this exceptional alpine valley.

The Gerlostal, passage between the Zillertal in Tyrol and the Salzburg region

The valley of the Gerlostal, extending from Cell in the brick to the Gerlos Pass, and beyond to the majestic falls of Krimml, offers a journey through beautiful Alpine landscapes and an alternation of picturesque villages with old-world charm and modern, lively winter sports resorts. This route, linking Tyrol to the state of Salzburg, is rich in history, culture and natural wonders.

Starting point of the valley, Zell am Ziller is located at an altitude of 575 meters, in the heart of the Zillertal. This idyllic village is renowned for its hospitality and family atmosphere. In summer, visitors can enjoy the Arena Coaster, the Zillertal’s first alpine roller coaster, or explore the Zillertal Regional Museum to learn about local history. Nature lovers will appreciate the hiking trails offering panoramic views of the valley.

The road then climbs in bends towards Hainzenberg. As you gain altitude, the view over the Zillertal widens and clears. The flat bottom of the valley contrasts with the wooded slopes that rise high into the sky. Hainzenberg is a small ski resort.

We continue along the route of the road which overlooks the torrent, the Gerlosbach by several dozen meters, until the village of Gmuend at an altitude of 1200 metres, preceded by a small reservoir that announces the arrival of the valley floor. If it were not for the imposing electricity pylons that line the valley, it would be particularly pleasant, with its mown meadows on one side and coniferous forests on the other. From the highest houses in the village of Gmünd the view of the mountains is very pleasant.

Gerl, the large ski resort stormed in winter by Dutch and German tourists is not far away. It stretches along the torrent in a succession of tourist residences, hotels and restaurants. A few farms and houses punctuate the habitat. The small church sits in the middle of the village with its bulbous bell tower and still gives it a typical character. However, even for the most recent hotels, the Tyrolean style has been maintained which allows to keep a certain harmony for the eyes. The forests which cover the slopes to the south of the village are very dense. To the north of the village, the fields dominate, where in winter they are crossed by the ski slopes.

Gerlos is one of the stations of the Zillerarena, just like Zell am Ziller, Königsleiten and HochKrimmel which has 150 kilometers of slopes.

The road then climbs through the forest and after a few bends, it finally reaches the Durlassboden reservoir and its wooded banks at an altitude of 1400 metres.

You have to stop and walk a few meters to admire the lake, which you then lose sight of along the road.

This finally reaches the Gerlospass at 1531 meters in the middle of a forest. In winter, the pass is the meeting point of the Königsleiten and Hochkrimml ski areas, both part of the Zillertal Arena.

The Alpine village of Koenigsleiten is located on the border between Tyrol and the state of Salzburg. At an altitude of 1 metres, it is one of the highest villages in the region. Königsleiten is particularly popular with winter sports enthusiasts, offering direct access to the slopes of the Zillertal Arena. In summer, the alpine meadows and hiking trails attract those looking to recharge their batteries in the heart of nature. It is a village built slightly higher up on the sunny side of the pass. The landscape is very open, on the peaks of the Pinzgau, already in the Salzburg AlpsThe buildings built like large Tyrolean houses bear witness to the modern side of the place and its winter tourist vocation.

Almost opposite, but even higher at 1650 meters above sea level, is the station of Hochkrimml. It is a peaceful resort located in the immediate vicinity of the famous Krimml Falls. Hochkrimml offers an ideal setting for outdoor activities, with hiking trails leading directly to the falls and the surrounding area. In winter, the area offers family-friendly ski slopes, which are part of the Zillertal Arena ski area. The village of modern chalets surrounded by forests is very harmonious and offers a very open landscape towards the Pinzgau and its northern edge. Its location on a small open plateau means it enjoys good sunshine.

During the descent to Krimml, a rest area on the road offers a panoramic view of the Krimml waterfalls and the Pinzgau Valley. A few bends further down and an altitude that has already dropped to around 1000 metres, a large car park announces the famous Krimml Falls, the highest waterfalls in Europe.

With a total height of 380 meters, these spectacular waterfalls attract visitors from all over the world. A well-maintained trail allows hikers to get up close to the different sections of the falls, offering stunning views and an unforgettable experience. The village of Krimml itself, offers various tourist facilities, including accommodation, restaurants and shops, making Krimml a must-see destination in the region. Here, you can once again find traditional architecture and a church with a bell tower topped with a beautiful spire pointing towards the sky.

Beyond Krimml is the Pinzgau, a green mountain region of the Salzburg Alps.

The Zillertal consists of a series of beautiful valleys centered around Mayrhofen

The valleys surrounding Mayrhofen, such as Zillergrund, Stillupgrund, Zemmtal, Tuxertal and Gerlostal, form a natural treasure chest in the heart of the Austrian Tyrol. Each of them offers a unique combination of unspoilt alpine landscapes, picturesque villages and varied activities, making this region a must-see destination for mountain lovers and adventure enthusiasts.

Le Ziller background, with its namesake river rising at an altitude of 2 metres, captivates with its tumultuous waterfalls and its Zillergründl reservoir. Hikers will find trails leading to breathtaking viewpoints, including from the Valentin Chapel, perched at an altitude of over 270 metres. Alpine wildlife enthusiasts can observe ibex in their natural habitat, enriching their nature experience.

Le Stillupground, meanwhile, is a peaceful valley where the Stillup reservoir reflects the surrounding peaks. The trails along the lake offer serene walks, ideal for families and contemplative people. Traditional alpine pastures, such as the Grüne-Wand-Hütte, offer the opportunity to taste local specialties while enjoying breathtaking panoramas.

La Zemmtal, accessible via the charming village of Ginzling, is the starting point for many excursions to iconic Alpine huts such as the Berliner Hütte. The Schlegeis reservoir, with its turquoise waters surrounded by snow-capped peaks, is a popular spot for water sports and panoramic hikes. Mountaineering enthusiasts will find challenges to match their expectations, with peaks reaching over 3 metres.

La Tux Valley stands out for its authentic villages, such as Finkenberg and Hintertux, and its year-round glacier. Modern winter sports facilities coexist with deep-rooted traditions, offering visitors a complete immersion in Tyrolean culture. The valley's thermal springs add a welcome touch of relaxation after a day of outdoor activities.

Finally, the Gerlostal connects Tyrol with the state of Salzburg, providing a seamless transition between two regions rich in heritage. The Krimml Falls, the highest in Europe, are an impressive natural spectacle, while villages such as Zell am Ziller and Gerlos offer activities for all ages, both in summer and winter. The ski areas of the Zillertal Arena guarantee thrills for skiing enthusiasts.

In short, these valleys around Mayrhofen offer a range of experiences combining nature, culture and adventure. Whether you are a hiker, skier, cyclist or simply looking for peace and quiet, the Zillertal will seduce you with its diversity and authenticity.

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