Hall-Wattens, in the Tyrolean mountains nature hikes and fascinating medieval towns

In the heart of the Tyrolean mountains, the Austrian region of Hall-Wattens captivates with its relaxing environments surrounded by nature. It is a region that offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy nature to the fullest, whether for sporty mountaineering enthusiasts or those looking for quiet hikes in the Karwendel Mountains or the Tux Alps, and above all, there is something for everyone: exciting hikes in the places of power or thematic trails suitable for the whole family. Places of power are unique places: spiritual sites, cultural monuments and special natural places in mountains and valleys. They are places worth taking a break, meditating and recharging your energy. Each spot exudes inspiration and tells stories, uniting the past with the present, the transitory with the eternal. Fourteen of these special places have been carefully selected in the region. One or two new sites are added each year to further enrich the list of these places. Most of them are easily accessible on foot, although some are well hidden and surprising. What is certain is that they all offer an experience that contrasts sharply with everyday life: here it is possible to meditate, breathe deeply and find tranquility.

Mountain sports enthusiasts, on the other hand, will find new adventures in the Hall-Wattens region, thanks to a variety of challenging tours that will reward them with breathtaking views of mountains and valleys.

Well-known and beloved is the Zirbenweg trail-a delight forhiking enthusiasts. Seven kilometers long, this scenic trail runs at an elevation of 2,000 meters, starting at the top station of the Patscherkofel cable car and ending at Tulfeinalm, near Tulfes. With its easy and pleasant route, the Zirbenweg is a family-friendly attraction, offering breathtaking views of more than four hundred peaks. While hiking along the trail, hikers also have the opportunity to admire Tyrol’s oldest stone pine, which, at 750 years old, stands majestically in the alpine wilderness and has been recognized as a natural monument since 1926. The beginning and end of the trail are easily reached by cable car.

One of the lesser-known places of power in the Hall-Wattens region is Schwarzbrunn in the far Voldertal valley. Already reaching this place is a spectacular experience: the Voldertal valley offers a panoramic view of the Inn valley, characterized by numerous traditional farms, alpine pastures, and the Volderwildbad, an old spa resort. The sound of the Voldertalbach stream accompanies you all along the way, offering an experience of peace and immersion in nature. The Voldertalhütte hut is an ideal stop to rest and enjoy the culinary delights of the Tyrol. The stories and legends associated with this valley are endless.

Nature observation takes center stage in the Karwendel, with its towering limestone cliffs, fascinating flora, and emerald-green streams. Taking part in a nature tour in the Halltal valley offers a unique opportunity to spot chamois and ibex in their alpine habitat. Exploring Austria’s largest nature park, not just confining yourself to the trail but also looking closely all around, you can discover natural wonders of all kinds, such as edelweiss, gentian, and Turk’s lily.

There is also no shortage of hiking for the whole family in the Hall-Wattens tourist region. Numerous opportunities to experience nature can be found inAktivpark Vögelsberg, which features nine different leisure facilities. The interactive theme trail, known as Piepmatzweg, offers creative fun for young and old with twelve stations along the way. There are also various types of trails that enhance the activity park’s offerings: a fitness trail, a Nordic walking trail, and the historic circular trail.

Every day, families with children can experience new adventures and discoveries. For example, Hans Geißler, a Tyrolean farmer, offers special tours with his llamas, providing an opportunity to explore the mountain world of the Wattenberg. These hikes are suitable for people of all ages, young and old, and lead through fragrant meadows, offering breathtaking views of the Tyrolean mountains.

At the Halsmarter mid-station, located at 1,500 meters above sea level, the “Kugelwald am Glungezer” promises guaranteed fun. This 8,000-square-meter attraction offers a variety of activities, including a large tree house, a do-it-yourself area, relaxation spaces, sound elements, and a low-rope climbing garden. With jumps, steep sections, and a ball elevator, the experience promises an exciting adventure for the whole family, with a focus on socialization and fun. For the little ones, there is a separate area dedicated to children ages two and under. And for parents seeking relaxation, there are stone pine beds available in the relaxation area.

In addition, geocaching, which is becoming increasingly trendy, can be practiced in the region. Currently, there are five different routes in the region that allow you to discover hiding places in nature, using GPS data. From challenging hiking trails to fun family treasure hunts, there is something for everyone: each route offers compelling nature experiences and unforgettable views. Geocachers in search of some 450 hidden treasures traverse forests, meadows, mountain landscapes and picturesque villages, making the most of the region’s outstanding hiking opportunities.

In Wattens, a great giant protects its chambers of wonder: on the occasion of Swarovski’s centenary in 1995, multimedia artist André Heller created Swarovski Crystal Worlds, where artists, designers and architects gave their own interpretation of crystal with real art installations, to experience the magic of crystal in an unprecedented dimension. It is the largest Swarovski store in the world.

Finally, explore the medieval town of Hall, and you will find yourself in one of Tyrol’s most fascinating locations. Its old town, among the best preserved in Austria, features historic buildings that have been restored and preserved within the city walls. During the Middle Ages, Hall became the most important economic center in North Tyrol due to its salt production. At that time, the town was a crucial transit point for trade along the Inn River and for the presence of the princely mint, which from the mid-15th century was located in Hall, contributing significantly to the further economic development of the region.

Today Hall is a lively town permeated with a joyful atmosphere, where one can enjoy a wide range of stores, fine hospitality, and musical events that take place within its walls steeped in history. The Old Town, together with the Hasegg Castle area, with its distinctive tower, the Münzerturm, which has become a symbol of the city of Hall, and with the attached Mint Museum, continues to fascinate visitors from all over the world every year. The museum tells the story of coinage and the various minting techniques. The highlight is a faithful replica of the original of the first roller minting machine in the Tyrol, as well as the world’s largest silver thaler. The front of the latter corresponds to that of the thaler minted in 1508 by Emperor Maximilian I: it depicts the newly crowned emperor in armor on horseback; in his hand he holds a banner with an eagle, the imperial symbol. Precisely on the occasion of his proclamation as emperor, Habsburg Maximilian, who had established a center of his power in the Tyrol, had a thaler minted, already exceptionally large at the time (it had a diameter of about 60 millimeters), which he used to spread his fame throughout Europe.

The Hall-Wattens region proves to be a jewel among the Tyrolean mountains, capable of offering an authentic and unforgettable experience for all. From the breathtaking views of the Alps to charming medieval towns, from adventurous hikes to peaceful places of power, this enchanting region has much to offer. With its history, culture, and nature, Hall-Wattens is a place to explore and love in this beautiful part of Austria.

Photo: Tourismusverband

Photo: Tourismusverband

Photo:

Hall-Wattens, in the Tyrolean mountains nature hikes and fascinating medieval towns

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