Summer in the Ötztal: More Adventure. More Relaxation. More Vacation.

In the 67-kilometer-long Ötztal, you’ll find not only the highest peaks of Tyrol but also a wealth of variety from the valley to the summits—making it a paradise for every type of vacationer. As Goethe once said, “You are only truly where you have walked.” Fortunately, hiking in the Ötztal offers an incredible array of options: Strollers can wander through lush meadows and enjoy peaceful Waal paths. Adventurous individuals and families alike can find their paths to vacation bliss on the 1,600 kilometers of marked hiking and mountain trails. Or they can indulge in a delicious mountain snack while discovering the many alpine huts. Just as the Wildspitze is the highest mountain in North Tyrol, the stunning Ötztal mountain world represents the pinnacle of Tyrol. Even those less inclined towards sports will find a way up: With the summer mountain lifts and hiking buses, desired starting and endpoint locations are easily accessible (both free with the ÖTZTAL PREMIUM CARD).

Wellness for Body and Soul

The adventurous Ötztal also has its relaxing and pleasurable sides. “With water and warmth to well-being,” is the motto of AQUA DOME, the Tyrolean thermal spa in Längenfeld, which can also be enjoyed for free with the ÖTZTAL PREMIUM CARD. Healthy thermal water fills the architecturally striking pools and outdoor bathing areas of one of Austria’s most beautiful spas every day. In the characteristic sauna landscape, both body and soul rejuvenate at the highest level, and in the brand-new children’s area, it’s all about “Fun Ahoy” both in water and on land. Naturally, it’s a serene experience at Lake Piburg, the warmest and most idyllic swimming lake in Tyrol, high above Oetz. Here, it’s easy to float away from everyday life.

Big Screen & Culture in the Ötztal Mountain World – James Bond

Not only was Daniel Craig, aka James Bond, enthralled when he saw the Ötztal mountain backdrop during the filming of “Spectre.” The producers decided to collaborate with the Sölden mountain lifts to create a lasting tribute to Agent 007 here. In summer 2018, the unique James Bond experience world 007 ELEMENTS opened its doors to visitors. At over 3,000 meters, right next to the restaurant ice Q, galleries on two floors transport visitors into the heart of the Gaislachkogl and into spectacular scenes from “Spectre,” as well as iconic moments from the other 23 Bond films. In an ultra-modern, multi-sensory way, the installations provide a deep insight into the filming of a 007 movie. As one of only four official Bond exhibitions worldwide, the high-alpine and architecturally impressive Ötztal version is set to attract international attention.

Less action but even more magic is offered by the hiking theater “Friedl mit der leeren Tasche,” which leads from Vent to the Marzellferner and back 600 years into Tyrolean history. Viewers follow live and at original locations as the disgraced Duke Friedrich IV of Tyrol must flee through the Ötztal to Merano in 1416. In about six hours, spectators and actors will hike to the Martin-Busch Hut and back (next dates: from September 6 to 15, 2018).

Exciting Adventure Trails, Ötzi Village, and Bird of Prey Park

In Sölden, numerous adventure stations open up the forest area, the alpine pastures, and the alpine region, where the Ötztal Nature Park can be discovered in particularly exciting ways. You can also follow a Waal path, the Mooser Steg, along an ancient irrigation canal—with spectacular views into the gorge of the Windacher Ache. Every Saturday from late July to late August, an easy hike with a nature park guide is offered.

The Ötzi Village in Umhausen, near the Stuibenfall—the largest waterfall in Tyrol—is also a worthwhile destination for a family outing. This inspiring journey into the past reveals how our Stone Age ancestors lived—with Stone Age huts, stone tools, fire pits, woolly pigs, and aurochs. Nearby, the Bird of Prey Park showcases 15 different species of birds of prey, such as vultures, eagles, kites, owls, falcons, buzzards, and ravens, demonstrating their flying skills in spectacular shows.