With its numerous granite faces, the Ötztal is considered a paradise for climbing enthusiasts. A total of 11 hiking trail routes are spread across the valley, three of which are in the area around Gurgl. From the Hotel & Apartment Alpenland in Obergurgl, you can reach these routes as well as several climbing areas in the upper Ötztal.
On the Zirbenwald via ferrata, you’ll climb through the ancient Swiss stone pine forest high above the roaring Gurgler Ache. The route begins with a breezy suspension bridge, before you’re challenged by two more demanding C-grade sections that require a bit of experience. A comfortable footpath connects the start and finish of the via ferrata in the Ötztal.
The Hohe Mut via ferrata gives you a choice: at a fork in the route, the right-hand route leads upwards through easy A/B terrain and is well suited to beginners, whilst the left-hand variant offers experienced climbers a scenic C-grade section via a striking rock pillar. The Hohe Mut cable car takes you conveniently close to the start of the via ferrata.
Further information at: gurgl.com
On the Schwärzenkamm via ferrata, you’ll climb high above the Gurgler Glacier World, where easier A/B sections alternate with short, challenging C/D sections, for which you should have some climbing experience. After the first third of the route, a grassy ledge invites you to take a break. There are signposted emergency exits available if you wish to take a shortcut.
Combine cycling with climbing: cycle by mountain bike from Obergurgl towards the Langtalereckhütte, thereby significantly shortening the walking approach to the via ferrata's start point.
Further information at: gurgl.com
High above Obergurgl, at an altitude of 1,940 metres, you can climb at the Zirbenwald climbing area, with views of the surrounding glaciated three-thousand-metre peaks. The 32 gneiss routes are short and well-secured, covering a wide range of grades from 3 to 7 – from your first attempts to a challenging climb. It takes 20 to 30 minutes to walk to the crag.
For more information, visit: gurgl.com
The Oetz climbing area features 39 climbing routes ranging in grade from 3 to 7. Those who prefer a more leisurely climb should stick to the easier sections on the left-hand side, whilst the overhanging central section demands powerful moves. For young climbers, the Lauser sector offers short, child-friendly routes.
For more information, visit: oetztal.com
At the Längenfeld-Oberried climbing area, you’ll find 143 routes across nine sectors, ranging in difficulty from 3 to 8. The variety ranges from steep overhangs to classic crack intersections, meaning that both beginners and experienced climbers will find suitable routes here.
For more information, visit: oetztal.com
State-certified mountain guides will show you how to use a via ferrata set safely and teach you the correct techniques on the rock during the Ötztal Tourism via ferrata workshop. On the Zirbenwald hiking trail and at the nearby climbing area, you’ll gain your first experiences under expert guidance and improve your skills step by step. The course is suitable for beginners and families with children aged 10 and over. There’s also a guided climbing tour on the Zirbenwald hiking trail once a week.
For a via ferrata, you will need a climbing harness, a via ferrata set with a webbing shock absorber, a helmet and sturdy hiking boots; thin gloves are recommended. If you’re travelling without your own kit, you can hire all the safety equipment directly in Obergurgl, for example at Sport Lohmann.
Climbing is just one of the summer activities on offer in Gurgl. Around Obergurgl, you can enjoy alpine hikes, mountain bike tours and attractions such as the Timmelsjoch High Alpine Road. This way, you can combine your days of climbing with other mountain experiences in the upper Ötztal valley.
Ready for your climbing holiday at the head of the Ötztal valley? Enjoy the physical challenge in the low-pollen mountain air. Book your room at the Hotel & Apartment Alpenland in Obergurgl online or make a no-obligation enquiry.
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