Pitztal Glacier: Skiing, the Wildspitze and Café 3440
Where Winter Reaches Higher
The Pitztal Glacier is more than a ski area. It is a high-alpine landscape where rock, snow and ice change your sense of scale. The Wildspitze rises above everything, the lifts reach 3,440 metres and even a coffee break becomes an excursion above the clouds.
From the Mandarfner Hof, the valley station of the Gletscherexpress is quickly reached. The day can begin early – or you can take your time and set off when the weather is truly right.
Austria’s Highest Glacier Ski Area
The altitude creates good conditions for a long ski season. Depending on snow and operations, winter sports days at the Pitztal Glacier are possible from autumn well into spring.
Together with Rifflsee, the area offers 68 kilometres of pistes and 30 kilometres of ski routes and variants. Wide natural-snow pistes suit pleasure skiers, while sporty guests find more demanding runs and freeride options.
Anyone leaving secured pistes needs alpine experience, complete safety equipment and current knowledge of weather and avalanche conditions. Local mountain and ski guides offer tours for different ability levels.
Up to 3,440 Metres with the Wildspitzbahn
The Gletscherexpress takes guests from the valley into the ski area. From there, the Wildspitzbahn climbs to the Hinterer Brunnenkogel. Even the ride shows how expansive the mountain world becomes here.
At the top is Café 3440 – Austria’s highest coffee house and confectionery. In clear weather, the panoramic terrace looks out towards numerous three-thousand-metre peaks and the Wildspitze.
Pedestrians can also reach the café when the lifts are operating. Check pedestrian tickets, opening times and weather and wind conditions on the day of your visit.
The Wildspitze: Tyrol’s Highest Mountain
The Wildspitze is Tyrol’s highest mountain and Austria’s second-highest. From Café 3440 it seems close enough to touch. Anyone wanting to climb it, however, leaves the world of a simple excursion.
A Wildspitze tour is a demanding high-alpine and glacier tour. It requires fitness, suitable equipment, safe conditions and experience with crevasses and rope techniques. For holiday guests, a guided ascent with a state-certified mountain guide is the right choice.
You can also simply look at the mountain from the terrace. Not every summit has to be climbed to leave an impression.
A Glacier Experience without Skis
The Pitztal Glacier is not only for skiers. A ride to Café 3440, views of the glacier landscape and selected guided activities make the altitude accessible to non-skiers too.
Because conditions are high alpine, lifts and offers may be adjusted at short notice. Warm clothing is essential even on sunny days.
Short Distances from the Mandarfner Hof
The Mandarfner Hof is in Mandarfen, only a few minutes by car from the Gletscherexpress. The public bus connects the village with the valley station; the Guest Card or a valid ski pass can be used according to the current rules.
After a glacier day, the hotel offers the perfect contrast: warmth, water, fine food and a peaceful evening. That is how high alpine can feel without ending in exhaustion.
Discover all three ski areas and more winter activities under Winter Holidays in the Pitztal.