Pitztal Glacier: Hiking, Skiing and the Wildspitze
The Pitztal Glacier is one of the most impressive natural spectacles in all of Tyrol. At over 3,000 metres above sea level, a glacier accessible year-round shows a completely different face depending on the season. In summer a quiet place for hikers, in winter one of the snowiest ski areas in the Alps. You are very welcome to experience both.
Up to the Glacier via the Wildspitzbahn
The journey into the glacier world begins with the Glacier Express in the valley, which brings you to the mid-station. From there the Wildspitzbahn takes over and carries you up to 3,440 metres above sea level. From Mandarfen the valley station is easy to reach and the ride takes only a few minutes. What opens up at the top is difficult to put into words.
Pitztal Glacier in Summer
The Pitztal Glacier in summer is a place apart. While temperatures rise in the valley, snow still covers the glacier above. Glacier tours, high-altitude hikes and views across the surrounding three-thousanders draw walkers from across Europe. Hiking the Pitztal Glacier means strapping on crampons, taking in the silence and understanding why the high mountains hold such a pull. Café 3440 waits as a reward at the top.
The Wildspitze
At 3,774 metres, the Wildspitze is the second highest mountain in Austria and the landmark of the Pitztal. From the Wildspitzbahn it feels close enough to touch. Experienced mountaineers can summit it; everyone else is very welcome to admire it from the panoramic terrace of Café 3440. Seeing the Wildspitze in Pitztal from this close stays with you.
Pitztal Glacier in Winter
In winter the glacier becomes a ski area of a particular kind. 25 kilometres of pistes, snow that holds well into May and skiing at up to 3,440 metres above sea level. The Pitztal Glacier is one of the highest-altitude ski areas in Austria. Beginners, families and freeriders each find their terrain depending on ability. The runs are long and the powder snow is the stuff of legend.
Starting Point Mandarfen
Boutique Hotel Mandarfner Hof in Mandarfen is ideally placed for anyone wanting to explore the Pitztal Glacier. Short drive to the valley station, no detours, no parking headaches. Whether a summer day trip or a full ski day in winter, the glacier is the natural first excursion from here. You are very welcome to put it on the plan for every single day.