Kals Travel Guide

Plan your next trip to Kals with this comprehensive travel guide, featuring information on top places to visit, best things to do, hiking routes, food scene, cultural customs, safety, transportation options, nearby destinations and more.


Introduction to Kals

Kals is a charming village located in the heart of the Hohe Tauern National Park, surrounded by the East Tyrolean mountains. It’s a perfect choice for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Austria.

Kals is popular for its ski slopes, but it’s also a great destination during the summer months for hiking and outdoor activities. This guide will help you plan your next trip to Kals and explore the best it has to offer.

List of Places to Visit in Kals

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Nationalparkhaus: Learn about the fauna, flora, and geology of the Hohe Tauern National Park.
  • Pfarrkirche St. Pancratius: Visit this beautiful parish church and admire its intricate interior design.
  • Galitzenklamm: Discover the unique geological formations of this gorge on a guided tour.

Natural Attractions of Kals: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Grossglockner: Take a day trip from Kals to the highest mountain in Austria for breathtaking views.
  • Kalsertal Valley: Explore the beauty of this valley by hiking or cycling.
  • Blauspitz: Hike to this peak for a panoramic view of Kals and the surrounding mountains.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Kals

Kals is a hiker’s paradise, with many trails to choose from. Some popular ones include:

  • Adlerweg Trail: Follow the trail of the eagle through the Austrian Alps, passing through Kals.
  • Lasörling High Route: Hike this stunning mountain range, which is guaranteed to leave a lasting impression.
  • Glockner Round Trail: A multi-day hike that will take you through alpine farms and valleys, with amazing views of the surrounding mountains.

Best Things to Do in Kals: Activities and Tours

  • Skiing: Kals is a popular destination for skiers, with many slopes to choose from.
  • Snowshoeing: Explore the winter wonderland of Kals on snowshoes.
  • Paragliding: Soar over the Austrian Alps and take in the picturesque landscape.
  • Mountain Biking: Ride through the Kalsertal Valley and discover the beauty of the East Tyrolean mountains.
  • Guided Tours: Learn about the history and culture of Kals on a guided tour.

Week-Long Itinerary for Kals

Day Activity
Day 1 Arrival in Kals, explore the village and visit the Nationalparkhaus.
Day 2 Ski or Snowshoe in the surrounding mountains, take a guided tour of the Galitzenklamm.
Day 3 Hike the Blauspitz, enjoy panoramic views of the surroundings.
Day 4 Take a day trip to Grossglockner, the highest mountain in Austria.
Day 5 Mountain bike through the Kalsertal Valley.
Day 6 Guided tour of the Pfarrkirche St. Pancratius.
Day 7 Departure from Kals, or alternatively, take a day trip to nearby destinations.

Food and Drink Scene of Kals

Must-Try Dishes

  • Tiroler Gröstl: A traditional Tyrolean dish made with potatoes, onions, beef, and fried egg.
  • Kaspressknödel: Dumplings made with bread and cheese, served with a salad.
  • Germknödel: A sweet dumpling filled with plum jam, served with vanilla sauce.

Local Beverages

  • Schnapps: A strong, distilled spirit made with fruit.
  • Bier: Beer is a popular drink in Austria, try a local brew from a nearby brewery.

Where to Stay in Kals: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Hotel Glocknerhof: A luxurious hotel with stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
  • Gasthof Post: A charming guesthouse in the heart of Kals.
  • Familienhotel Adler: A family-friendly hotel with a range of activities for children.

What to Buy in Kals: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Birch tree bark handicrafts: Handmade baskets and other items made using birch tree bark.
  • Hand-carved wooden figurines: These intricate figurines are made by skilled artisans.
  • Local food products: Bring home some Tiroler Gröstl seasoning or jams made with local fruit.

Local Culture and Customs of Kals

  • Tyrolean music and dance are an important part of local festivals and celebrations.
  • The traditional dress for women is known as a Dirndl, and for men, it’s a Lederhosen.
  • Meat dishes, particularly pork, are a staple of Austrian cuisine.

Best Time to Visit Kals

The best time to visit Kals is during the summer months (June-September) for hiking and outdoor activities, or in the winter months (December-April) for skiing and snowshoeing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Kals

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages.
  • Take care of the environment, especially in the national park.

Don’t:

  • Ski or hike in areas that are closed or restricted.
  • Wear improper clothing in religious buildings.
  • Speak too loudly or cause a disturbance in public places.

Safety and Health

Safety in Kals

Kals is generally a safe destination, with a low crime rate. However, take precautions while hiking or skiing in the surrounding mountains, and be aware of the risks associated with outdoor activities.

Health in Kals

Austria has excellent healthcare facilities, and there are several hospitals and clinics in nearby towns. It’s recommended to have travel insurance before visiting Kals.

Getting to Kals: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Kals

  • Innsbruck Airport (INN)
  • Salzburg Airport (SZG)

Bus Stations Near Kals

  • Lienz Bus Station

Other Options

  • Car rental is available at both Innsbruck and Salzburg airports.
  • Train travel is also an option, with the nearest train station located in Lienz.

How to Get Around in Kals

The best way to explore Kals is on foot, but a car or bike rental is also available.

Where to Go Next from Kals: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Lienz: Visit this charming town and explore its many historical sites.
  • Grossglockner High Alpine Road: Drive through this spectacular mountain range for stunning views.
  • Innsbruck: A vibrant city with plenty of cultural attractions and a rich history.

Conclusion

Kals is a beautiful destination in Austria that offers visitors a chance to connect with nature. It has lots to offer for those looking for outdoor activities, cultural experiences, and a peaceful escape. Use this guide to plan your trip to Kals and make the most of your visit.