The Best Things to Do In and Around Wildschönau Valley, Austria

Exploring the valleys on horseback is a relaxing, slow-paced way to take in the surroundings. Many of the resorts and hotels in the area offer horseback riding programs, which include lessons and adventure trails.

As well as hearty Tyrolean cuisine, this area is also famous for producing Austria’s favourite alcoholic beverage, schnapps. The schnapps that is produced in this area is unique; distilled and created using white beetroot. Its unusual taste tends to divide people – discover it for yourself. Considered a cure for a variety of ailments, it is found in almost every household in the Wildschönau Valley.

With over 300 kilometres of gentle, winding trails, the region of the Kitzbühel Alps draws thousands of hikers and casual walkers to its tracks every year. There are numerous organic wanders you can chance upon on your journey through the mountains of the Wildschönau Valley, from epic ravines to lush, dense forests. The Kundl Gorge walk, which takes you from Kundl to Wildschönau, is a beautiful yet unchallenging hike that takes you past steep cliffs and the fast flowing Wildschönau river. Huts and cabins are available to rent along the way if you plan to extend your hike over a few days, details of which can be found here.

Those who want to experience the gorgeous views from the top of the valley’s mountains – but aren’t feeling up to the hike – can cheat. The Schatzberg cable car whisks visitors up to the tip in just under 15 minutes, providing incredible panoramic views along the way. Once at the top, there is much to explore, including three mountain restaurants offering delicious local cuisine at a staggering 1,300 metres above sea level.

Views from the top of the Alps are breathtaking, however, adrenaline junkies should take to the skies to get the most breathtaking sights. Paragliding around these areas is common due to ideal climate conditions and during the summer months, you’ll find the skies above the valley dotted with gliders. Beginners should head to the Wildschönau Flight School in Niederau, where you can take courses and partake in a tandem flight with an expert. Discounts are available with a Wildschönau Card.

Those who want to stay closer to the ground can head to the slopes of Wildschönau, to one of Tyrol’s most popular skiing resorts. Floodlit skiing brings a whole new dimension to the sport, making it particularly atmospheric. The tracks at Roggenboden in Oberau are frequently lit up at night and there is also a floodlit tobogganing track for those who want an alternative.