Autumn days in Tyrol: Tips for small and large adventurers

Summer is coming to its grand finale and many are drawn to distant lands one last time before winter is just around the corner. Areas that can be reached quickly and spontaneously by car or train and offer variety for the whole family are very popular. Tyrol is one such adventure playground for explorers of all ages. Quaint little villages like those from a picture book await holidaymakers there, as well as an extraordinary flora and fauna or one of the cleanest mountain lakes. Interesting castles are perched on rocky outcrops and some suspension bridges require a lot of courage. Reason enough to take a closer look at the area - we have put together a few highlights of the Austrian region for you.

The Kaiser Mountains: A portrait of a striking mountain range

First of all, the question is where exactly you want to go. The Kaiser Mountains are a particularly good choice, as there are many attractions around the mountain range. But what exactly are the Kaiser Mountains?

It is part of the northern limestone Alps, and the Ellmauer Halt is the highest peak in the Wilder Kaiser at 2,344 metres. While the mountain range is home to several state-of-the-art ski resorts in winter, it is ideal for exciting hiking tours in spring and summer.

The right accommodation for activities

The town of Scheffau is a good starting point for all kinds of activities. Located right at the northern foot of the mountains, you can plan all your day trips from there or even start directly on site. The family hotel Kaiser is also located there. If you book it as part of the mountain adventure days in autumn , which last until the beginning of November, you can look forward to a number of extras. Regardless of this, you should definitely not miss the following highlights in Tyrol:

Experience nature up close: Witches’ Water

"Be amazed, comprehend, understand" is the motto of the Hexenwasser in Söll . Researchers of all ages can experience the wonders of nature up close. There are various stations and hiking trails that impart knowledge and where you can also get involved, tinker and sample culinary delights. True to the name, you can also spend time with a witch or a warlock and be transported into the wondrous world of sorcery and magic.

Adventure on the go: Mountain Adventure Worlds

If your interest in nature has now been awakened, there are 6 more mountain adventure worlds open to you. In the KaiserWelt Scheffau, at 1,650 meters, you can let off steam on a large trampoline and swings, for example, or you can try out climbing equipment in the mystical Kaiserwald and venture up to a high stand. Horse lovers will get their money's worth at the Astberg Pony Alm. This is located right next to the mountain station in Going. There are other animals waiting to be petted. Another fantastic excursion destination is Ellmi's Magic World in Ellmau. There you can hike in the footsteps of the sorcerer's apprentice Ellmi, discover a play park or enjoy the view from one of the towers. The Hohe Salve also attracts with a unique panoramic platform. The Sonnweg hiking trail teaches you about timekeeping and at the summit you can visit the highest pilgrimage church in Austria. Nature detectives should take a closer look at the Alpinolino Westendorf. Ibex, hares and the like can be seen up close on a hike. And if you are interested in the underwater world, visit the Filzalmsee in Hochbrixen. There is a Kneipp pool there for cooling off in between.

Back to the Middle Ages: Kufstein Fortress

The fortress has been a landmark over the town of Kufstein for 800 years. Today it is one of the most impressive medieval buildings in Tyrol. It is located 90 metres above the town on a rock and can be reached either on foot or by cable car. 21 stations inside the fortress provide informative insights into the 800-year history. You can also visit various special exhibitions in the various local museums.

Off to the underworld: The silver mine in Schwaz

In the Middle Ages, Schwaz was an important mining metropolis. The silver mine there is considered the mother of all mines . The tour first takes you about 800 meters deep into the earth. There you will find an oppressive and at the same time impressive world underground, in which many a worker spent a large part of his life. You can find out even more on one of the 90-minute guided tours that are offered.

A journey through time: The history of Tyrolean farms

Not only mines have a very long tradition in Tyrol, but also a number of farms. They have always been built in a very special style. In Kramsach you have the opportunity to visit several of these ancient farms, in their original condition. A total of 37 rebuilt original buildings await you in the Tyrolean Farm Museum.

Not just for jewelry lovers: Swarovski Crystal Worlds

Last but not least, we have another museum tip for you: In 1995 , the Swarovski Crystal Worlds opened in Wattens . Here, art meets jewelry and history. It is not for nothing that this museum is one of the most popular destinations in the whole of Tyrol - for the whole family. A complete world of art made of crystal awaits you, in which you can lose yourself.

Innsbruck: A city for explorers

Innsbruck is the capital of the state of Tyrol. A visit to the old town is particularly worthwhile because it is magical. The city's landmark, the Golden Roof, is particularly popular. There are also other sights, such as the city tower, the Schwarzmander Church and many shops, restaurants and cafés that invite you to take a stroll.

If you want to learn more about the Habsburgs, we recommend a trip to Ambras Castle. High above the city you will find an impressive museum that uses works of art and other exhibits to describe the eventful history of the Habsburgs and that of Innsbruck. There is also a great terrace where you can enjoy a coffee.

We also recommend a visit to the Innsbruck Alpine Zoo. On an area of ​​around four hectares and at an altitude of 750 meters, you can discover around 2,000 animals that are native to the Alps. The day could then be rounded off with a great meal on the Bergisel ski jump.

When the first snow comes: Fun in the SkiWelt Wilder Kaiser Brixental

And when winter approaches, there are plenty of adventures waiting for you in the SkiWelt Wilder Kaiser Brixental between glittering snow and mighty peaks. For example, you can let off steam in 4 fun parks or treat yourself to a drink at the bar in the Alpine Igloo Village in Hochbrixen and soak up the sun. Even after sunset, you can still race down the slopes in Austria's largest night skiing area. 280 kilometers of slopes are available for this. Outdoor activities such as tobogganing, ice skating and snowshoe hiking also attract visitors to Tyrol.

Tyrol has a lot to offer for nature lovers. © unsplash.com, Jochen Bückers