Five Peaks to Explore

1. Tiroler Zugspitzbahn | Ehrwald

The Zugspitze is known as Germany’s highest peak, but many are unaware that it straddles the border between Germany and Austria – with the summit just about on the German side. Up at the top is an eye-catching piece of architecture – the glass-and-steel Snow Crystal inspired by the lines and angles of a snowflake.

2. Arlberg Winter Via Ferrata | St. Anton

Carving fresh tracks in virgin powder is the dream of many skiers and snowboarders, but it is becoming increasingly hard to find untouched slopes. One place to escape the masses on the lifts is the Arlberg Winter Via Ferrata, a climbing route in the mountains with handholds and footholds as well as a steel wire from start to finish for extra safety. The climb ends at the Roßfallscharte ridge – the start of your descent into the resort.

3. Snowshoe walks on the Frudiger | Pfunds

Every village in Tirol has its own mountain. For Pfunds it is the Frudiger, a peak which despite being 2,136 metres in altitude can be climbed in winter using snowshoes. The route up to the top leads through forests and meadows, peaks and troughs all the way to the impressive crucifix on the summit. After a break for a snack and a few quick pics it is time to descend back down on the other side before completing the final section along the same path back down into the valley.

4. Masnerkopf | Serfaus

Waiting at the top: a vulture. The Masnerkopf above the village of Serfaus is known for its bearded vulture – but there is no need to be afraid. The vulture in question is a huge bronze statue gazing out over the mountains from the summit, a reminder of the incredible fauna of the Alps. Humans without the benefit of wings can get to the top quickly and easily using the cable car – and as you may expect, the view at 2,828 metres is majestic.

5. Schafsiedel | Kelchsau

The Schafsiedel mountain may look just a short walk from the Neue Bamberger Hütte (open in winter), but don’t be fooled. From the valley to the peak there are 1,335 vertical metres of climbing to complete – yet the view at the top and the descent back down are well worth all the effort.