It will come as no surprise that many excursions here in Obergurgl-Hochgurgl are associated with the mountains. After all we are surrounded by a breath-taking panorama. Nevertheless, you are guaranteed variety and there are some exciting excursion destinations at the end of the Ötztal – such as the rustic Kirchenkar hut or the spectacular Piccard Bridge on the Gurgler glacier, which spans a gorge at a height of 100 metres. Cross over the border to Italy on the Timmelsjoch high mountain pass, which makes a day trip to the South Tyrolean spa town of Merano an appealing option. A highlight for the whole family is the Obergurgler pine forest adventure trail, which leads through the middle of this protected area.

At the end of the Ötztal there is a “secret gap” – namely the Timmelsjoch high alpine pass. The road crosses at 2474 m – the highest pass in the Eastern Alps – and has been an important crossing point for thousands of years. To reach the South Tyrolean Passier valley you no longer have to scramble over the pass as in days gone by, instead, you can simply travel by car or motorbike along the Timmelsjoch high alpine pass. Spectacular views of the surrounding nature are guaranteed and five stops along the route provide information about the nature, history, culture, society and economy of the region through architectural sculptures.

Kirchenkar hut

For friends of a rustic ambience and amazing views

One of the top summer destinations of the Ötztal is the Kirchenkar hut in Hochgurgl. It is located near the cable car carrying the same name, therefore perfect for pleasure hikers and families – as it is easy to reach by lift or on foot. Once at the top, the cosy but spacious sun terrace offers impressive views of the imposing mountain and glacial world of the Ötztal.

The Kirchenkar hut probably comes as close as you get to the ideal image of a classic mountain hut – a wooden building, a partly faded façade and traditional roofing. Culinary emphasis is placed on traditional and regional cuisine combined with international dishes.

A real adventure awaits you at the back of the Gurgler valley: the 142 m long Piccard suspension bridge. Since summer 2017, it has spanned the deep gorge between the two sides of the valley and helps connect the Langtalereck hut with the Ramolhaus. It is named after the famous balloonist Auguste Piccard.

The bridge is the highlight and turning point for every hiker on the circular tour from Obergurgl or on the ascent to the Ramolhaus. It was built out of necessity to provide a safe crossing of the gorge at the Gurgler glacier.

Further summer excursions

Adventurous holiday in the Ötztal

Obergurgl Pine forest adventure Trail: the rarity of up to 300 year old trees line the trail, which brings the “queen of the tree line” closer with information boards and interactive stations. Perfect for young and old.
Nature Info point Hohe Mut Alm: It provides interesting information on the main topics “glaciers – climate – high alpine research”. The view of the Rotmoos and Gaisberg valleys is also impressive.
Top Mountain Motorcycle Museum: Europe’s highest motorbike museum at the Top Mountain Crosspoint in Hochgurgl. 500 historic motorbikes from over 150 different manufacturers as well as some rare cars can be found on 4500 m². Not only motorbike enthusiasts will be impressed.