Austria’s summer unfolds like a breathtaking story, and nowhere is the narrative more captivating than in Tirol. Nestled within the heart of the Austrian Alps, Tirol emerges as a quintessential summer paradise, beckoning adventurers with its awe-inspiring landscapes and boundless opportunities for exploration. Here, emerald valleys unfurl beneath snow-capped peaks, turquoise lakes shimmer like polished gems, and charming villages whisper tales of a rich cultural heritage.
My one-week escape to Tirol, Austria, was a dream come true. The natural beauty of Tirol is simply unreal, and during our stay, we had the opportunity to explore two of its main regions – the crown jewel being the Zillertal Alps, along with the Zugspitz Region.
Tirol’s most epic summer destinations
Tirol is one of the most epic regions in Austria, and if you plan a summer getaway, The Zillertal Alps would be my top recommendation. During my one week trip itinerary, I explored one of the most epic attractions in Tirol, some of the best in all of Austria.
- Tux, Zillertal Alps
- Hintertux Glacier, Zillertal Alps
- The Schleier Waterfall or Schleierfall, Zillertal Alps
- The Schlegeis reservoir, Zillertal Alps
- Hiking to Olpererhüte, Zillertal Alps
- Plansee Lake, Zugspitz Region
- Heiterwang Lake, Zugspitz Region
Day 1 & 2: Tux and Hintertux
The Zillertal Alps is a stunning high mountain region filled with dramatic scenery, ranging from narrow gorges to towering peaks and glaciers. The possibilities for hiking and exploring the region are boundless. Each day spent exploring the area unfolded like a captivating story, with amazing hikes and scenic trails leading to breathtaking viewpoints, offering moments of pure tranquility.
We stayed in Tux, a charming alpine village that served as an excellent starting point for many trails, including the popular Olpererhüte.
Discover the best hotels in Zillertal Alps with a simple search:
Our first hike began in the picturesque village of Hintertux, a quaint haven nestled amidst the towering peaks of the Austrian Alps. As Europe’s only year-round ski resort, Hintertux offers stunning scenery and various activities even in summer. After a scenic gondola ride, we were ready to ascend to the heights of the mountains for our first hike of the day: from Hintertux to the majestic Schleier Waterfall and back again.
Along the way, we spotted plenty of playful marmots scampering and playing amidst the rocks.
Day 3: Hiking to Olpererhüte
The hike to Olpererhütte stands as one of Austria’s top attractions, and with good reason. Offering unparalleled views overlooking the Schlegeis reservoir, the experience is nothing short of breathtaking.
The hike starts at the Schlegeis reservoir, and the shortest and most popular route, typically takes approximately 2 hours. This route is an intermediate level of hiking difficulty. This hike is among the most spectacular I’ve ever take, though it’s worth noting that it can become quite crowded at times.
Upon reaching Olpererhütte, an alpine mountain refuge, the panoramic views are simply awe-inspiring. The Olperer Bridge, is located just a few minutes from the hut.
Good To know: the trail is accessible between June and October.
Day 4-6: Plansee Lake and Heiterwang Lake
Leaving the Zillertal Alps behind, we ventured into the Zugspitz Region to discover the serene beauty of its lakes.
Plansee stands as the second largest lake in Tirol, and it’s no wonder it’s a favorite among visitors. Nestled amidst the majestic Alps of Tirol, in Zugspitz Region, Plansee Lake boasts breathtaking scenery characterized by crystal-clear waters reflecting the surrounding peaks and lush greenery. The picturesque landscape creates a serene and tranquil atmosphere, perfect for unwinding during the summer months.
Along the shores of the lake, you’ll find charming pebble beaches, making it an ideal spot for summer relaxation. During our visit in June, we found ourselves drawn to the tranquil shores, spending blissful days by the water’s edge. Summer offers opportunities for kayaking and paddleboarding around the lake, allowing you to explore its beauty from a different perspective.
Hiking trails around Plansee offer breathtaking panoramic views of its turquoise waters, providing a memorable experience amidst nature’s splendor.
Tucked away, less frequented than Plansee, Heiterwang Lake boasts similar crystal-clear waters and a picture-perfect setting. This hidden paradise appealed to the nature lovers in us, and with more accommodation options, it became our base for exploring the region for four days.
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