Tyrol: The Complete Otztal Trail

Travel comfortably by train to the Ötztal train station. From there, a bus runs regularly to Oetz, a popular holiday destination with many historic facade paintings at the entrance to the Ötztal.

In the morning, you’ll take the bus to the Ötztal train station, the official starting point of the Ötztaler Urweg trail. You’ll walk parallel to the River Inn, climbing up to the mountain hamlet of Oetzerau, situated at the entrance to the valley. Here you can take in the spectacular views of the valley, the 3000-metre summits looming over head and the route ahead of you. From Oetzerau, the trail descends at an easy-going pace to Oetz.

Ascent/Descent:  370/270 m

The first highlight of today's walk is en-route to the Seitental Valley in Niederthai. This spectacular route takes you past Tyrol’s tallest waterfall, the Stuibenfall. You’ll ascend stairs directly next to the gushing water before continuing across lush alpine meadows to the idyllic mountain village of Niederthai.

Ascent/Descent: 1100/350 m

A shorter day of walking takes you from Niederthai over green pastures and through airy forests further down into the Ötztal Valley. Stop along the way for an al fresco picnic of local meats and regional produced Mozzarella. Descend to Längenfeld, the main town of the lower Ötztal

Ascent/Descent: 300/670 m

Today's walk takes you to Sölden. On the first part of this walk, you’ll ascend to the plateau between Brand and Burgstein, and pause to take in the fantastic panoramic views before crossing the suspension bridge which is 200 metres above the ground. From here, the trail winds steeply back down to Ötztaler Ache. With the river in full view, the path meanders down through small hamlets into the bustling resort of Sölden.

Ascent/Descent: 1410/1250m

Start directly outside your hotel in Sölden. Initially, you’ll hike the narrow Kühtrainschlucht Gorge trail to Zwieselstein, then follow the E5 ascending towards the Timmelsjoch Pass. You’ll turn off the trail to rustic “Sahnestüberl” lodge, the perfect place for a break. Follow the roaring Gurgler Ache, as the trail finally leads you through alpine pastures into the small but exclusive ski resort of Obergurgl.

Ascent/Descent: 850/300m

Today's walk concludes with the most challenging section of the Ötztaler Urweg, taking you deep into the mountains. From Obergurgl, walk towards the Küppelealm on well-maintained paths. From there, you’ll hike further into the valley towards the rocky outcrop on which Ramolhaus is situated and where you’ll be rewarded with breath-taking views over the glaciers.

Ascent/Descent:  1100/20 m

Your walk ends with the most challenging section of the Ötztaler Urweg, taking you right up into the mountains.

From the Ramolhaus Hut, you’ll make the steep ascent on gravel paths, rocky terrain and up a few sets of steps with safety ropes to reach Ramoljoch at 3187m. As you descend into the climbing village of Vent, enjoy spectacular views of the Ötztal glacier and the Similaun mountain.

This is an alpine route that requires you to be experienced in mountain hiking, be surefooted and have a head for heights. It can only be undertaken in dry, stable weather conditions and when visibility is good.

Ascent/Descent: appro 250/1330m

After breakfast, it's time to say goodbye to the beautiful Ötztal. If you want to stay longer in the Ötztal, please contact us to arrange some extra nights