Stubai Valley — Glacier paradise on Innsbruck's doorstep★★
The Stubai Valley is Tyrol's most versatile alpine valley — only 30 minutes from Innsbruck and yet a completely different world. Four villages (Schönberg, Mieders, Telfes, and Neustift with Milders) line up along the Ruetz stream, framed by over 80 three-thousanders. At the end of the valley sits the Stubai Glacier — Austria's largest glacier ski area.
In winter, the Stubai Valley offers four ski areas: the Stubai Glacier (snow guarantee October–June), the Schlick 2000 (family ski area), Serles lifts (beginners), and the Elferbahnen (toboggan run!). In summer, the Stubai Valley is a hiking paradise with the WildeWasserWeg as a highlight — a themed trail along spectacular waterfalls and wild gorges.
Neustift in the Stubai Valley is the main town and has retained its village charm: no bed castles, but family-run guesthouses, rustic inns, and genuine Tyrolean hospitality. The Stubai Super Card (summer, free from hosts for stays of 3 nights or more) includes all cable cars, buses, swimming pools, and entry to attractions.
💡 Tipp
The WildeWasserWeg in the Stubai Valley is one of Tyrol's most spectacular easy hikes: three stages along waterfalls, gorges, and glacier streams. The third stage to the Sulzenau-Alm (2,191 m, 2.5 hours) is the most beautiful — with views of the Sulzenau Glacier and the Sulzenau Waterfall (100 m drop).
Stubai Glacier — Skiing at 3,210 m
The Stubai Glacier is Austria's largest glacier ski area: 35 kilometers of slopes at altitudes of 1,750–3,210 meters, absolute snow guarantee from October to June. 26 modern lift facilities, including the spectacular 3S Eisgratbahn (opened in 2016, 3,000 people/hour).
At 3,210 meters lies the Top of Tyrol viewing platform — a free-floating steel construction with views of 109 three-thousanders and Austria's highest point, the Großglockner (3,798 m). On clear days, you can see as far as the Dolomites.
The Ice Grotto inside the glacier (at 2,900 m) is accessible year-round: A 200-meter-long tunnel leads into the eternal ice — fascinating shades of blue, -2°C, free of charge.
Ski pass: Day pass €62.50 (adults), €31 (children up to 15). 5-day pass: €280/€140. Family ski pass (2 adults + children): significant discount. Operation: Mid-October–Mid-June.
