Holidays to Mayrhofen

On an Inghams walking holiday, you have the freedom to explore the area at your own pace. Each day, a new adventure, with as much or as little walking as you like.

Why we love walking in Mayrhofen

With over 1,400 kilometres of marked walking trails in the area that cater to all abilities, there is so much to explore. You can walk to bucket-list viewpoints, or take a leisurely stroll to a gourmet mountain hut for lunch with a view, make memories with the family or take on an athletic challenge in nature.

Our favourite thing about walking in Mayrhofen is definitely the views. The four valleys that branch away from the Zillertal are all stunning in their own right, from dazzling mountain reservoirs to the Hintertux Glacier, each valley is worth exploring, and the vastness of the area will keep you coming back year after year.

Guided walks

Don't forget, you have the option to join two included Inghams guided walks per week, with a local, professional guide. Get to know our favourite walking trails with insider knowledge and the company of other guests. Pre-booking is essential - scroll down for more information.

Mayrhofen and the Zillertal has a great network of public transport and lifts that make getting around the area really easy. 

Lifts

There are 10 lifts open in the Zillertal during the summer, normally from the end of May/beginning of June until October. Round trips start from about €23 so if you're planning to use them a lot during your stay it may be worth buying a Zillertal Activcard - see the Cards & Passes tab for more details. The lifts open in the summer are:

• Ahornbahn, Mayrhofen (normally open 17 Jun to 31 Oct)
• Penkenbahn and Kombibahn Penken, Mayrhofen (normally open 27 May to 8 Oct)
• Finkenberger Almbahnen, Finkenberg (normally open 3 Jun to 26 Oct)
• Eggalmbahnen, Lanersbach (normally open 17 Jun to 15 Oct)
• Hintertuxer Glacier, Hintertux (normally open all year - Zillertal Activcard covers the lifts up to the Sommerbergalm at 2,100m, pay locally to get up higher)
• Rosenalmbahn, Zell am Ziller (normally open 27 May to 8 Oct)
• Gerlosteinbahn, Hainzenberg (normally open 17 Jun to 22 Oct)
• Isskogelbahn, Gerlos (normally open 17 Jun to 8 Oct)
• Königsleiten Dorfbahn, Königsleiten (normally open 17 Jun to 8 Oct)
• Spieljochbahn, Fugen (normally open 27 May to 29 Oct)

Train

The Zillertalbahn is a narrow gauge railway that runs the length of the Ziller Valley, starting in Mayrhofen and finishing in Jenbach. It stops at many of the villages throughout the valley on route. From Jenbach you can connect to the mainline trains to reach places such as Innsbruck, Salzburg or Munich.

Buses

The Zillertal is well-serviced by its public bus network which connects you to the surrounding valleys. You can catch public buses to Hintertux Glacier, Schlegeis Reservoir, Zillergrund Reservoir and many of the nearby lifts. Sometimes, a toll payment is required (in cash) in addition to the bus fare. Most buses run from the train station and timetables are available locally.

A private bus runs to the Stillup Valley, which is privately owned and so not serviced by public buses - it runs from the Europahaus Tourist Information.

Inghams guided walks - included in your holiday

We’ve included two full-day walks per week in Mayrhofen, just for Inghams guests. Join a small group and be led by a professional mountain guide on some of their favourite trails. It’s a great way to get to know the area. The walks in Mayrhofen are run by Actionclub Zillertal.

The walks will run every day except Saturdays. The days of your walks will be allocated to you by your rep and details given during your welcome meeting. Your first walk of the week will take place between Sunday and Tuesday, and your second walk of the week will take place between Wednesday and Friday. You can add the walks onto your holiday at the time of booking, through My Booking or by calling us on 01483 319 652.

Routes may vary from week to week but as a guide you can see some of our planned routes below:

Maxhütte

This walk starts in the small village of Ginzling, a short bus ride from Mayrhofen. The path rises through dense forests to the picturesque Gungl Valley with views of alpine meadows, a river and rugged mountain peaks in the distance - think quintessential Austrian Alps scenes. You'll follow the trail to the rustic Maxhütte mountain hut where you can buy lunch before heading back down.

• Grade: Moderate (a reasonable fitness level and sure-footedness is required)
• Distance: 6km
• Duration: 6 hours (walking time approx. 3.5 hours)
• Ascent/descent: 500m
• Terrain: Forest trails and meadow paths on a single track footpath (can be quite uneven in places)
• Useful information: You'll stop at the Maxhütte where you can pay for lunch locally and a public bus is required to and from Ginzling (payable locally, approx. €4 per person each way in cash). Please bring suitable walking shoes, clothing, sun cream, sun glasses, rain jacket, a warmer layer, rucksack, drink and snack. You may find walking poles useful.

Rastkogelhütte

There's mountain views in every direction on this fantastic walk. It follows a narrow, scenic path to the Rastkogelhütte - a remote mountain hut with spectacular views across the valley to the surrounding peaks of the Zillertal Alps. On the way, look out for wild flowers and animals like marmots or mountain goats.

• Grade: Moderate (a reasonable fitness level and sure-footedness is required)
• Distance: 9km
• Duration: 6 hours (walking time approx. 4 hours)
• Ascent: 420m
• Terrain: Rocky, single-track footpath (can be quite uneven in places)
• Useful information: There will be a stop at the Rastkogelhütte where you can buy lunch and a public bus is required to and from Melchboden (payable locally, approx. €8 per person each way in cash). Please bring suitable walking shoes, clothing, sun cream, sun glasses, rain jacket, a warmer layer, rucksack, drink and snack. You may find walking poles useful.

Wiesenhof

This is a popular walk from Mayrhofen. It starts at the bottom section of the Ahorn Mountain and goes to the Wiesenhof Hut for some incredible views of the town from above. In the distance, you'll see the River Ziller running through the valley, framed by the Penken Mountain rising steeply on one side and the Steinerkogl on the other. Take your time here to enjoy the views and order some great local food at the hut (payable locally), most of what they serve's been grown in their own farm.

• Grade: Moderate (a reasonable fitness level and sure-footedness is required)
• Distance: 5km
• Duration: 5 hours (walking time approx. 2.5 hours)
• Ascent/descent: 370m
• Terrain: Mainly single-track, gravel footpath or forest trail (can be quite uneven in places)
• Useful information: There will be a stop at the Wiesenhof (lunch not included). Please bring suitable walking shoes, clothing, sun cream, sun glasses, rain jacket, a warmer layer, rucksack, drink and snack. You may find walking poles useful.

Wimmertalalm

This beautiful walk takes you back to nature before stopping at the traditional Wimmertalalm Hut, where you can stop and enjoy the views over Wimmer Valley. The path starts quite steeply then quickly gets more comfortable so you can enjoy the views of the natural wilderness of the valley all the way to the Wimmerscharte, passing original farm buildings along the way.

• Grade: Moderate (a reasonable fitness level and sure-footedness is required)
• Distance: 7km
• Duration: 6 hours (walking time approx. 3 hours)
• Ascent/descent: 400m
• Terrain: Mountain road and gravel tracks (can be quite uneven in places)
• Useful information: There will be a stop at the Wimmertalalm (lunch not included) and a public bus is required to and from Gerlos-Gmünd (payable locally, approx. €4 per person each way in cash). Please bring suitable walking shoes, clothing, sun cream, sun glasses, rain jacket, a warmer layer, rucksack, drink and snack. You may find walking poles useful.

For every walk you will need: suitable walking shoes with good grip, appropriate clothing, sun cream, sun glasses, rain jacket, a warmer layer, rucksack, at least a litre of water, a snack and cash for mountain huts/transport. You may find walking poles useful.

Early booking is strongly recommended as spaces are limited. All walks are subject to availability of local guides, weather conditions and maximum numbers. Planned routes are subject to change. Any distances and ascents/descents stated are approximate. Full details of the walks with the meeting points and routes will be provided to you on arrival. In some instances there may be a small charge for local transport that is payable locally. In resorts where the walks run over more than two days, the day of the walk will be allocated to you by your Rep in your welcome meeting. Where we cannot confirm your preferred option in resort, we will endeavour to offer an alternative subject to the above conditions.

Please ensure you are comfortable with the grade of walk, planned distance covered and terrain before booking. The decision of the guide on the suitability of the walk for you is final and no compensation will be paid where the guide believes, in their professional opinion, that it is not suitable. Please ensure you are well-equipped for the walk have suitable clothing and footwear. Walks are not recommended for guests under 12 years. Any guests under 18 years will need to be accompanied by an adult.

The walking in Mayrhofen and the surrounding valleys is so good that every route could be classed as a favourite, but here are just a few routes that we really love:

Stilluptal 

• Easy, valley floor walk
• No set route length

The Stilluptal is the shortest of Mayrhofen's subsidiary valleys and is privately owned with just a few farms and mountain huts. The steep U-shaped valley has waterfalls cascading down the valley sides and the glacier at the end gives the reservoir a bright turquoise colour. The Grüne-Wand-Hütte is at the end of the valley and is the last stop on the private bus. From here you can walk eight kilometres back to the reservoir or use the bus.  

Penken Panoramaweg

• Easy walk
• Great for families
• 8.1km with 331m height gain
• The walk takes around two and a half to three hours but it's easy to extend or shorten

The clue is in the name for this walk - there are panoramic views in every direction as you wander the gravel tracks that lead from around the top of the Penken and Kombibahn Penken area. See if you can identify the Ahornspitze or Tristner, two striking mountains on the other side of the valley - if you have keen eyes you'll also be able to spot the Stillup Reservoir. Along the route, you'll find lots of activities for families including mountain scooters, adventure playgrounds and the opportunity to walk-on-water inside a giant zorb ball.

Olperhütte and Friesenberghaus

• Moderate to challenging hike
• 16km with 965m height gain
• Expect to take around five to seven hours
• Visit the famous Olperer bridge with views over the Schlegeis Reservoir

Take the public bus to the Schlegeis Reservoir. Don't get too distracted by the stunning blue waters, you've got a steep climb ahead and it's quite rocky underfoot. Make sure you've packed your camera though, this walk will make your inner photographer very happy. Follow the route markings up to the Olpererhütte where you'll find delicious food - we recommend the Kaiserschmarrn. From the hut, head out past the Olperer bridge (photo stop compulsory) and follow the signs for the Friesenberghaus. Then it's downhill all the way back to the car park for the bus back to Mayrhofen.

Ahornspitze

• Challenging summit hike
• 12km with 1,016m height gain
• Expect to take around five to seven hours
• Summit the highest peak near Mayrhofen at 2,970m

Starting at the top of the Ahornbahn and heading out past the Edelhütte and onto the summit, this is an out and back hike that will be a fun challenge. There are spectacular views the whole way and it's a bit of a scramble towards the top so sure-footedness and a good head for heights is essential. You'll definitely feel the reward when you get to the top!

Berlinerhütte and Schwarzsee

• Challenging hike
• 25km with 1,250m height gain
• Expect to take around nine to ten hours
• Visit the most famous alpine hut in the Zillertal

From the Gasthof Breitlahner this hike weaves up the Zemmgrund through pastures and alpine meadows, past waterfalls and remote mountain huts before eventually arriving at the spectacular Berlinerhütte, an architectural masterpiece. You have to go inside, not only to try to food, but to see the unique interior. Head uphill a little further to the Schwarzsee lake where the views are best on the far side. The return walk is back the way you came - if you want to make the route shorter, turn back after lunch in the hut.

More great walking route inspiration

You can view lots more recommended routes and view tour maps from Zillertal Tourism.

Recommended equipment

Comfy walking boots, waterproofs, rucksacks and walking poles are useful for hiking around Mayrhofen and the Zillertal. There are plenty of places in Mayrhofen to buy walking equipment or the Hotel Kramerwirt offers guests staying there rucksacks and walking poles to borrow.

Walking maps

We recommend Kompass Map 37 or Mayr Map 310 for the Zillertal, which have a scale of 1:25,000 or 1:50,000. The maps show the walking routes which are numbered and match the yellow signposts around the area. They will have a key which will help you understand the nature of the hiking trail before you set out on your walk.

Walking guidelines

The mountains are a natural paradise, with lots to explore and discover. To help it stay that way, and remain an enjoyable and safe place for everyone, we recommend following our little list of do's and don'ts:

• Plan your route well and don't overestimate yourself
• Check the weather forecast
• Tell someone where you're planning to walk and what time you're expecting to be back
• Take all the recommended equipment
• Make a note of emergency numbers:
  • Austrian Emergency Services: 112
  • Mountain Rescue: 140
• Don't leave the marked trails or go onto a glacier without a guide
• Let nature stay wild by not picking alpine flowers (it's illegal in some places) or getting close to/making contact with wild animals
• Always leave gates as you found them
• Leave no trace

Things to do in Mayrhofen

Lively village life

There's always fun to be found in Mayrhofen, whether it's a brass band concert, a traditional Zillertal band playing at the dairy or a sports match on TV at Mike's Sportsbar. Festivals like the Village Festival in Hollenzen (10th September 2023) are worth a visit for a glimpse into local Zillertal traditions and values - it usually revolves around food, schnapps and a good time.

Exciting water adventures in and around Mayrhofen

Get kitted out with a wetsuit and boots and hit the water on a family rafting adventure on the River Ziller, or try out river-tubing. Our favourite river adventure is canyoning. Explore than Zemmgrund canyon from within, abseil waterfalls, jump into pools and slide down the rocks - teenagers will love this action-packed activity.

Test out your climbing skills on a via ferrata

Our favourite is the via ferrata to the Zimmereben. There are different routes to suit all ability levels and some are a real challenge. You'll be rewarded with incredible views on your climb and you can tuck into a strudel and a coffee or beer at the hut when you reach the top. If the Zimmereben routes whet your appetite and you're keen for more, the route on the Gerlosteinwand is longer and lots of fun, with equally spectacular views - remember to take your own treats for the top though.

Discover thrilling bike trails for the very best views of Mayrhofen

Hop on a bike in the Zillertal and you're in for a treat - cycling in the area is second to none. Hire an e-bike and ride up into the Stilluptal to enjoy this picture-perfect private valley, or head to the more challenging single-track trails for some adrenaline-packed downhill action. With 1,300 kilometres of trails, there's something to delight all bike enthusiasts.

Outdoor pools and bathing lakes

Water enthusiasts of all ages will love the Zillertal with its six outdoor pools and adventure bathing lakes throughout the mountains. Slides and splash pools at the Mayrhofen and nearby Hippach pools will delight families with young children, as will the Ahornsee bathing lake at the top of the Ahornbahn lift. There's plenty of space to splash and play or relax and take in the view.

Visit Hintertux Glacier

At 3,250 metres this is the highest point you can get to on the lifts and, as you can imagine, the views are amazing from up here. The Nature's Ice Palace is a fascinating day out, exploring the depths of the Hintertux Glacier from within the ice where you'll find sparkling ice crystals, stalactites and even a glacial lake.

Mayrhofen Excursions

Krimml Waterfalls - bookable locally

Marvel at the natural wonder of Europe’s highest waterfall set amidst the stunning Hohe Tauern National Park. Follow the path right next to the falls for fantastic photo opportunities of the 380 metre falls that cascade over three levels. A small National Park fee may be payable locally. This excursion is a half-day trip.

We act at all times as a selling agent for the suppliers. All excursions require minimum numbers to run and are subject to change. Some excursions may not be available to pre-book but may be available to book locally subject to numbers. Prices will be confirmed at the time of booking. Please see our terms & conditions.