Galtür Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, see, and experience in Galtür, Tyrol, Austria. Plan your trip with this comprehensive guide covering Galtür's natural and cultural attractions, food and drink scene, accommodations, local customs, transportation options, and more.


A Comprehensive Travel Guide to Galtür, Austria

If you’re looking for a hidden gem in Austria away from the usual tourist crowds, look no further than Galtür, a charming mountain village located in Paznaun Valley, in Tyrol, in Central Europe. Galtür is a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts, skiers, and snowboarders. However, it offers much more than winter sports, so whether you prefer hiking, cycling, or simply exploring breathtaking alpine scenery, Galtür won’t disappoint.

Introduction to Galtür

Galtür is located at 1,584 m above sea level and has a population of around 800 people. This picturesque mountain village has a long-standing tradition of farming and tourism, dating back centuries. Its history is closely intertwined with local legends, customs, and traditions, some of which are still observed and celebrated today.

List of Places to Visit in Galtür

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Galtür is home to several museums and historical places that offer a glimpse into its fascinating past. Here are some of the must-visit cultural attractions in Galtür:

  • Wechselausstellungen Galtür: This museum showcases temporary exhibitions of art, crafts, and cultural events from the region.
  • Alpinarium Galtür: This museum tells the story of the 1999 avalanche disaster and the region’s alpine history.
  • St. Antonius Chapel: This beautiful Gothic chapel is one of the oldest in the area and is decorated with frescoes dating back to the 15th century.

Natural Attractions of Galtür: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Galtür is nestled in a stunning alpine valley and offers spectacular natural attractions for visitors to enjoy. Here are some of the must-visit natural attractions in Galtür:

  • Birkhahnbahn Cable Car: This cable car takes visitors up to 2,520 meters and offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers.
  • Silvapark Galtür: This nature park offers a variety of activities, including hiking, mountain biking, and Nordic walking.
  • Jamtalferner Glacier: This glacier is located near Galtür and is ideal for experienced hikers looking for a challenging trek.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Galtür

Galtür is a paradise for hiking and cycling enthusiasts. The mountain village has a vast network of trails and routes to explore, ranging from easy, scenic walks to more challenging hikes and rides. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes in Galtür:

  • Verwalltal Hike: This scenic hiking trail follows the Verwall valley and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and waterfalls.
  • Silvrettarunde: This is one of the most popular bike routes in the area and covers 120 km of stunning mountain scenery.
  • Gehrenspitze Hike: This challenging hike takes visitors up to 2,631 meters, offering breathtaking views of the valley below.

Best Things to Do in Galtür: Activities and Tours

Galtür offers a wide range of activities and tours for visitors of all ages and interests. Here are some of the best things to do in Galtür:

  • Skiing and Snowboarding: Galtür is a popular ski resort with 40 km of slopes that cater to all levels of skiers and snowboarders.
  • Snowshoeing: Explore the winter wonderland of Galtür on a snowshoeing tour.
  • E-Biking: Rent an e-bike and explore the scenic alpine trails around Galtür.

Week-Long Itinerary for Galtür

If you’re planning to spend a week in Galtür, here is a suggested itinerary that covers the best the region has to offer:

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore the village of Galtür and visit Alpinarium Galtür museum
Day 2 Take the Birkhahnbahn Cable Car and hike to Jamtalhütte mountain hut
Day 3 Ski or Snowboard at the Galtür ski resort
Day 4 Take a snowshoeing tour in the surrounding mountains
Day 5 Visit the Wechselausstellungen Galtür Museum and St. Antonius Chapel
Day 6 Take an e-biking tour around the Silvapark
Day 7 Visit the nearby towns of Ischgl and Kappl for a change of pace

Food and Drink Scene of Galtür

Must-Try Dishes

Galtür has a rich culinary tradition that combines Austrian and Tyrolean flavors with local ingredients. Here are some of the must-try dishes in Galtür:

  • Kaiserschmarren: This fluffy pancake dish is served with fruit compote and is a favorite of both locals and visitors.
  • Kasnocken: This hearty dish consists of soft cheese dumplings and is perfect after a long day of skiing or hiking.
  • Gerstlsuppe: This barley soup is a traditional Tyrolean dish that is perfect for cold winter days.

Local Beverages

If you’re looking to quench your thirst after a day of outdoor activities or to warm up during the winter months, here are some of the local beverages to try:

  • Almdudler: This is a refreshing herb-flavored soda that is a popular drink in Austria.
  • Schnapps: This distilled fruit brandy is a popular after-dinner drink in Austria and comes in various flavors.
  • Glühwein: This spiced hot wine is a winter staple in Austria and is perfect for warming up after a day on the slopes.

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

Galtür offers a variety of accommodations to suit all tastes and budgets. Whether you prefer a cozy guesthouse or a luxury hotel, you’ll find plenty of options in Galtür. Here are some of the best places to stay in Galtür:

  • Hotel Toni: This family-run hotel offers comfortable rooms and suites, a spa, and easy access to the ski slopes.
  • Hotel Almhof: This luxury hotel offers stunning mountain views, a spa, and a gourmet restaurant.
  • Pension Walserstube: This charming guesthouse is located in the center of Galtür and offers comfortable rooms and a homely atmosphere.

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

If you’re looking to bring home some souvenirs or local products from Galtür, here are some of the best places to shop:

  • Galtür Dorfladen: This local shop offers a range of souvenirs, local honey, and homemade jams.
  • Schafwollprodukte: This store specializes in sheep wool products, including blankets, hats, and scarves.
  • Spezialitäten Sennerei Paznaun: This cheese shop offers a range of local cheeses and dairy products.

Local Culture and Customs of Galtür

Galtür has a rich cultural heritage that is closely tied to local customs, traditions, and folklore. Some of the most notable events and customs in Galtür include the annual “Silvretta-Ferwall-Marsch” hiking event and the “Perchtentanz”, a traditional dance performed by locals in elaborate masks during the winter months.

Best Time to Visit Galtür

Galtür is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on your interests and preferences. If you’re into winter sports, then the peak ski season from December to March is ideal. However, if you prefer hiking and outdoor activities, then the months from May to September offer mild temperatures and longer daylight hours.

Do’s and Don’ts of Galtür

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions.
  • Try the local cuisine and drinks.
  • Bring warm clothing and proper gear for outdoor activities.

Don’t:

  • Leave trash or litter in nature areas.
  • Make loud noise after 10 pm in residential areas.
  • Ignore the local traffic laws and regulations.

Safety and Health

Safety in Galtür

Overall, Galtür is a safe destination for visitors. However, it’s important to take the necessary precautions when engaging in outdoor activities and to follow the local safety guidelines and regulations.

Health in Galtür

Galtür has a local doctor’s office and pharmacy, but for more serious health concerns, it’s recommended to visit a nearby hospital or medical center. It’s also important to have travel insurance that covers emergencies and medical expenses.

Getting to Galtür: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Galtür

The nearest airports to Galtür are Innsbruck Airport (INN), which is approximately 100 km away, and Friedrichshafen Airport (FDH), which is approximately 120 km away. Both airports offer shuttle services and rental cars for transportation to Galtür.

Bus Stations Near Galtür

Galtür is well-connected by bus with nearby cities and towns. The main bus station in Galtür is located in the center of the village and offers daily connections to Ischgl and other nearby destinations.

Other Options

The most convenient and scenic way to reach Galtür is by car or by hired taxi. Several car rental companies operate in the airports near Galtür.

How to Get Around in Galtür

Galtür is a compact village, and most of the attractions and destinations can be reached on foot. However, for longer distances or for exploring the surrounding areas, renting a car or a bicycle is recommended.

Where to Go Next from Galtür: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Galtür is ideally located for exploring other nearby destinations and attractions in the region. Here are some of the best nearby places to visit:

  • Ischgl: This famous ski resort is only a short distance away from Galtür and offers a wide range of winter activities.
  • Kappl: This alpine village is located nearby and offers stunning hiking trails and mountain vistas.
  • Vienna: This majestic capital city is roughly a six-hour drive from Galtür and offers a rich cultural heritage, attractions, nightlife, and dining options.

Conclusion

Galtür is a hidden gem that offers a variety of natural and cultural attractions, outdoor activities, and local traditions. Whether you’re a skier, hiker, or culture buff, Galtür has something for everyone. Plan your trip and make sure to experience this charming mountain village in Tyrol, Austria.

Memorial for the victims of the 1999 avalanche. Memorial for the victims of the 1999 avalanche. The Alpinarium The Alpinarium The Parish Church in winter The Parish Church in winter St. Martin Chapel in Tschafein St. Martin Chapel in Tschafein The iconic Jamtalhütte. The iconic Jamtalhütte.