The Most Beautiful Hikes and Walks in Tyrol, Austria

This aptly named trail rewards you with spectacular panoramic bird’s eye views from the peak, making the long trek to the top well worth the struggle. Named as such due to the walk being shaped like an eagle spreading its wings over Tyrol, this challenging 413-kilometre trail is divided into 33 stages, with a total ascent of nearly 31,000 metres. This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that will allow you to see Austria’s most spectacular side. Former hikers of the Eagle’s Walk have documented their experiences in the Eagle Hike Tour Book – available at the receptions of Arlberg Hospiz Hotel in St. Christoph am Arlberg (North Tyrol) and at the Lucknerhaus hut (East Tyrol). See here for further details about the Eagle’s Walk.

Having a lake in your route breaks up the scenery and offers respite from the heat. The Hintersteiner See is located at the heart of the Wilder Kaiser Mountain nature reserve, and its water is provided by several subterranean springs that help make it of perfect and clear quality. It’s so transparent that you are able to see 10 metres underwater to the bottom. A lido section allows for swimming – a wonderful and refreshing treat after an afternoon’s trek. A circular route is the most popular, beginning at Seestüberl car park and ending at the same point.

This route, starting at Kramsach, is for hikers of a medium to high ability, with an ascent of 1,500 metres and some challenging areas. One of the major natural landmarks on the route is the Zireiner Lake, which is considered one of the most magical in the whole region. It’s situated in the valley of the Rofan Mountains, which are reflected on its waters. The Berhaus Inn, where you can grab a glass of wine and a snack, provides motivation for making it back down.

Translating as the “three-lake walk“, this route takes you past the Ampervreilasee, Selvasee and lastly the Guraletschsee. Enjoy being entirely immersed in nature on this trail with mountains on all sides, including the mighty Frunthorn. Be sure to make a stop at Alp Selva, a region famous for its award-winning cheeses.

This trail is a little more unusual in its landscape. The valleys of Halltal in northern Tyrol are famous for its salt mines, which have existed since the middle of the 13th century. This family-friendly hike begins at the opening of the valleys and continues to weave through the stunning landscape. Information boards detail the long history of the salt mines in the area, and there are a few gems along the way such as the Bergerkapelle chapel and the Ladhütten huts.