Paznaun Valley Travel Guide

Plan your perfect trip to Paznaun Valley with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover top attractions, hiking routes, activities, local cuisine, accommodation options, and more.


Introduction to Paznaun Valley

Paznaun Valley is a picturesque alpine valley nestled in the heart of Tyrol, Austria’s westernmost province. Surrounded by majestic mountain peaks, including the Silvretta and Verwall mountain ranges, Paznaun Valley offers a wealth of recreational opportunities for visitors throughout the year. Known for its unparalleled natural beauty, charming villages, and warm hospitality, Paznaun Valley is a must-visit destination for those seeking a true alpine experience.

List of Places to Visit in Paznaun Valley

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Paznaun Local Heritage Museum

    Located in the village of See, the Paznaun Local Heritage Museum offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into the history and culture of the region. The museum showcases a variety of exhibits, including traditional costumes, handicrafts, and photographs.

  • Mathias Schmid Museum

    Located in Galtur, the Mathias Schmid Museum is dedicated to the life and work of Mathias Schmid, a prominent local artist and sculptor. The museum features a collection of Schmid’s sculptures, paintings, and drawings.

  • Alpinarium Galtur Museum

    Located in the village of Galtur, the Alpinarium Galtur Museum is a modern museum that showcases the region’s natural and cultural history through multimedia exhibits and interactive displays.

Natural Attractions of Paznaun Valley: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Silvretta High Alpine Road

    One of the most scenic drives in Austria, the Silvretta High Alpine Road takes visitors on a journey through the stunning Silvretta mountain range. The road offers breathtaking panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, turquoise lakes, and jagged mountain ridges.

  • Bielerhöhe Reservoir

    Located at an altitude of 2,036 meters above sea level, the Bielerhöhe Reservoir is a popular spot for hiking, fishing, and picnicking. The reservoir offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and is a great place to relax and unwind.

  • The Fluchthorn

    The Fluchthorn is the highest peak in the Silvretta mountain range, standing at an impressive 3,399 meters. The peak is a popular destination for experienced hikers and alpinists, offering incredible views of the surrounding mountains.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Paznaun Valley

Paznaun Valley is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a variety of hiking and biking trails that cater to all skill levels. Some of the most popular routes include:

  • Zeinisjoch - Heidelberger Hütte

    This hiking trail takes visitors on a journey through the stunning Silvretta mountain range, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks, lakes, and glaciers. The hike is considered moderate to challenging and typically takes between 4-5 hours.

  • Paznauner Taja-Wallfahrt

    This hiking trail is well-known for its cultural significance, as it takes visitors on a pilgrimage route from the Silvretta mountain range to the Paznaun Valley. Along the way, hikers can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding alpine landscape. The hike is considered moderate and typically takes 3-4 hours.

  • Silvretta Bike Tour

    The Silvretta Bike Tour is a popular cycling route that takes visitors on a journey through the Silvretta mountain range. The route covers a distance of 200 kilometers and takes cyclists on a circular tour through the region’s most scenic landscapes.

Best Things to Do in Paznaun Valley: Activities and Tours

Paznaun Valley is filled with a wide range of activities and tours that cater to all tastes and preferences. Some of the best things to do in the region include:

  • Skiing and Snowboarding

    Paznaun Valley is a world-renowned ski destination, offering some of the best slopes and ski areas in Austria. With over 200 kilometers of ski runs and 50 ski lifts, visitors can enjoy a variety of winter sports activities, including skiing, snowboarding, and cross-country skiing.

  • Paragliding

    Paznaun Valley offers some of the best paragliding conditions in Austria, with strong thermals and stunning alpine landscapes. Visitors can take part in tandem flights or courses to learn how to fly solo.

  • Mountain Biking

    Paznaun Valley is a paradise for mountain bikers, with over 1,000 kilometers of trails and routes that cater to all skill levels. Visitors can enjoy scenic rides through alpine meadows, high mountain passes, and steep descents.

Week-Long Itinerary for Paznaun Valley

Day 1: Arrival and Relaxation in the Hotel Day 2: Explore the Paznaun Local Heritage Museum and hike the Zeinisjoch-Heidelberger Hut route. Day 3: Visit the Mathias Schmid Museum and cycle the Silvretta Bike Tour. Day 4: Skiing or snowboarding at one of the ski areas in Paznaun Valley. Day 5: Take a paragliding tour or visit the Alpinarium Galtur Museum. Day 6: Hike the Paznauner Taja-Wallfahrt route. Day 7: Departure and farewell to Paznaun Valley.

Food and Drink Scene of Paznaun Valley

Paznaun Valley is renowned for its delicious cuisine, which combines traditional alpine flavors with modern culinary techniques.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Tiroler Gröstl

    A hearty dish made with potatoes, beef, onions, and bacon, Tiroler Gröstl is a staple dish in many Austrian alpine regions.

  • Kaiserschmarrn

    A sweet and fluffy dessert made with shredded pancakes, raisins, and caramelized sugar, Kaiserschmarrn is a popular dish in Austria and Germany.

  • Kaspressknödel

    A savory dish made with bread, cheese, and herbs, Kaspressknödel is a popular dish in the alpine regions of Austria and Germany.

Local Beverages

  • Schnapps

    Made from distilled fruit, schnapps is a popular alcoholic beverage in Austria that comes in a variety of flavors, including pear, apple, and plum.

  • Almdudler

    A refreshing non-alcoholic beverage made from a blend of herbs, Almdudler is a popular drink in Austria.

Where to Stay in Paznaun Valley: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Paznaun Valley offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit all preferences and budgets. From luxurious ski resorts to cozy guesthouses and hostels, visitors can choose from a variety of options that cater to their individual needs.

Some of the most popular accommodation options in Paznaun Valley include:

  • Hotel Trofana Royal

    One of the most luxurious hotels in Austria, Hotel Trofana Royal offers guests a wide range of amenities and services, including a spa, gourmet restaurant, and ski-in/ski-out access.

  • Hotel Silvretta

    Located in the heart of Ischgl, Hotel Silvretta offers guests comfortable rooms, an on-site restaurant, and a wellness center.

  • Gasthof Piz Buin

    A cozy guesthouse in the village of Galtur, Gasthof Piz Buin offers guests a relaxing and authentic alpine experience.

What to Buy in Paznaun Valley: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Paznaun Valley is renowned for its high-quality local products, including artisanal cheeses, schnapps, and handicrafts. Some of the best local products to bring home as souvenirs include:

  • Paznauner Almkäse

    A traditional hard cheese made with raw cow’s milk, Paznauner Almkäse is a delicious and aromatic cheese that is perfect for cheese lovers.

  • Hazelnut Schnapps

    Made with locally grown hazelnuts, Hazelnut Schnapps is a sweet and nutty liquor that is perfect for after-dinner drinks or as a gift for loved ones.

  • Handmade Woodcarvings

    Paznaun Valley is known for its traditional woodcarving techniques, which produce beautiful and intricate carvings of animals, religious figures, and alpine traditions.

Local Culture and Customs of Paznaun Valley

Paznaun Valley has a rich cultural heritage that is steeped in alpine traditions and customs. Some of the most important cultural events and traditions in the region include:

  • Almabtrieb

    A traditional alpine festival that celebrates the return of cattle from the high alpine pastures, Almabtrieb is a colorful spectacle that features decorated cows, traditional costumes, and music.

  • Silvretta Ferwall Marsch

    A challenging mountain trek that takes hikers through the stunning Silvretta and Verwall mountain ranges, Silvretta Ferwall Marsch is a great way to experience the region’s natural beauty and challenge your hiking skills.

Best Time to Visit Paznaun Valley

Paznaun Valley is a year-round destination that offers a variety of activities and attractions throughout the seasons.

  • Winter Season

    From December to April, Paznaun Valley is a popular destination for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports activities.

  • Summer Season

    From June to October, Paznaun Valley is a great destination for alpine hiking, mountain biking, and outdoor activities.

  • Autumn Season

    From September to November, Paznaun Valley is a great destination for experiencing the region’s fall foliage and traditional alpine events and festivals.

Do’s and Don’ts of Paznaun Valley

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions

    Paznaun Valley is a region with rich alpine customs and traditions, and visitors should be respectful of them.

  • Dress appropriately for outdoor activities

    The weather in the alps can be unpredictable, and visitors should dress accordingly for outdoor activities.

  • Try the local cuisine

    Paznaun Valley is renowned for its delicious cuisine, and visitors should not miss the opportunity to try traditional dishes and beverages.

Don’t:

  • Litter or leave trash behind

    Visitors should not litter or leave trash behind while in the alpine region.

  • Disrupt native wildlife or plant life

    Visitors should not disrupt native wildlife or plant life while hiking or exploring the region.

Safety and Health

Safety in Paznaun Valley

  • Altitude Sickness

    Visitors to Paznaun Valley should be aware of the potential risks of altitude sickness and take necessary precautions.

  • Weather Conditions

    Weather conditions in the alpine region can change rapidly, and visitors should be aware of any weather warnings and adjust their activities accordingly.

Health in Paznaun Valley

  • Sun Protection

    Visitors should wear appropriate sun protection while outdoors, as the sun’s UV rays can be strong in the alpine region.

  • Hydration

    Visitors should stay hydrated while engaging in outdoor activities and carry enough water with them.

Getting to Paznaun Valley: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Paznaun Valley

  • Innsbruck Airport

    Located 100 kilometers from Paznaun Valley, Innsbruck Airport is the closest airport to the region.

  • Zurich Airport

    Located 200 kilometers from Paznaun Valley, Zurich Airport is another option for visitors coming from further away.

Bus Stations Near Paznaun Valley

  • Ischgl Bus Station

    Located in the heart of Ischgl, this bus station offers connections to regional and national bus lines.

  • Galtur Bus Station

    Located in the village of Galtur, this bus station offers connections to regional and national bus lines.

Other Options

  • Train

    Visitors can take a train to Landeck-Zams railway station and then take a bus or taxi to Paznaun Valley.

How to Get Around in Paznaun Valley

Visitors can get around Paznaun Valley conveniently using the public transportation system. The region offers a network of bus routes, including free shuttle buses, that connect visitors to popular tourist destinations and outdoor activities.

Where to Go Next from Paznaun Valley: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Paznaun Valley is surrounded by many charming destinations and attractions that are worth exploring. Some nearby destinations include:

  • St. Anton am Arlberg

    A popular ski destination located only 30 kilometers from Paznaun Valley, St. Anton am Arlberg offers visitors a variety of winter sports activities and outdoor adventures.

  • Lake Constance

    Located only 200 kilometers from Paznaun Valley, Lake Constance is a popular summer destination that offers visitors a variety of water sports activities and cultural events.

Conclusion

Plan your perfect trip to Paznaun Valley and discover the best attractions, outdoor adventures, local cuisine, and accommodation options in this charming alpine region of Austria. Whether you’re a passionate hiker, an adrenaline seeker, or a history buff, Paznaun Valley has something for everyone. Experience the warm hospitality, breathtaking views, and rich culture of this unique destination and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Alpinarium in Galtür. Alpinarium in Galtür. Trisanna Bridge next to the See (Tyrol)#Q1401352 Trisanna Bridge next to the See (Tyrol)#Q1401352 St. Hieronymus Parish Church in Kappl. St. Hieronymus Parish Church in Kappl. Descending the Trisanna by kayak! Descending the Trisanna by kayak! ''Silvrettastraße'' closed because of avalanche risk. ''Silvrettastraße'' closed because of avalanche risk.


    Galtür
    Kappl
    See