Insights into the info trip from our product manager Magdalena Klawonn.
Our popular Alpine crossing from Tegernsee to Sterzing has a new addition: A new variant starts at the idyllic Spitzingsee. The first section is relaxed with gentle climbs on quiet paths and leads through impressive gorges to Fügen before the route turns into the classic.
In September 2024, I set off to explore the tour myself and get to know our new partner hotels. Join me on a mental journey full of memories, impressions of nature and sensory perceptions.
Stage 1: Spitzingsee — Kaiserhaus
I set off early in the morning from the tranquil Spitzingsee. Only the chirping of birds accompanies me. I follow the wide “Bockerlbahnweg” trail through flowering meadows before the route later leads through the forest along the river deeper into the valley. After the Valepp forester’s lodge, the landscape opens up: wide alpine meadows, waterfalls shimmering in the distance. High above the valley, an idyllic path leads down to the river, where ice-cold natural pools invite you to take a break. If it were warmer today, I would jump in! The spectacular Kaiserklamm gorge awaits me as a highlight. On a secured path, I watch as the turquoise water thunders through the eroded rocks. Once I arrive at the Kaiserhaus, I treat myself to a well-earned break before the bus takes me to Brixlegg. The evening ends with an excellent meal at the charming Hotel Herrnhaus.
Stage 2: Kaiserhaus — Kramsach/Brixlegg
After a transfer back to the Kaiserhaus, I continue my hike. I leisurely follow the forest path downstream, the water glistening in the morning sun. The weather is glorious, so I take the opportunity for a refreshing dip in a natural pool. Shortly afterwards, I reach the spectacular Tiefenbachklamm gorge. Metal bridges and narrow paths lead directly along the rock, while the water rages below me in fascinating colors. After six kilometers, I leave the gorge. I walk along a narrow path through the forest to Kramsach. My destination is the charming Hotel Jagdhof. After a warm day, I am delighted to enjoy a refreshing drink in the hotel’s own restaurant.
Stage 3: Kramsach/Brixlegg — Fügen
I take the bus a short distance to Brixlegg. Past the flower-decorated farmhouses in Reith im Alpbachtal, a panoramic trail then winds its way up to the Reitherkogel. Alternatively, you could also take the cable car here to save yourself around 2.5 hours of ascent. Once I reach the top, I am rewarded with a breathtaking panorama: the Zillertal valley stretches out before me in all its glory. I enjoy the view before continuing along a varied hiking trail. I discover a self-service cabinet at a farm — the raspberry lemonade is a blessing in this heat! The descent takes me down to Fügen on a quiet, scenic road, where the modern Kosis Lifestyle Hotel welcomes me. After cooling off from the hot day, I pay a visit to the small wellness area with sauna and steam bath and relax my muscles. I then round off the day with an excellent dinner at the hotel.
Stage 4: Fügen — Hochfügen
After a short walk to the Spieljochbahn cable car, it takes me comfortably up into the alpine landscape. Right at the mountain station, I discover an adventure park with trampolines embedded in the ground — a short jump with a view is a must! I then hike up to the summit of the Spieljoch and continue along a beautiful ridge path deeper into the alpine world. Fog rolls in and envelops the landscape in mystical silence. I warm up with a hot chocolate in a rustic mountain hut before continuing on to Hochfügen. Here I check into the cozy Hotel Almhof and relax in the whirlpool.
Stage 5: Hochfügen — Mayrhofen
The fog is still hanging around, but that’s what gives the landscape its special charm. The ascent to the Sidanjoch is steep, but as soon as I reach the top, the cloud cover breaks. Rays of sunlight bathe the green hills and glistening pools of water in magical light. A goosebump moment! I stop off at the Rastkogelhütte for a leisurely break before taking the bus and train to Mayrhofen. The Hotel Perauer awaits me here with its excellent cuisine and inviting wellness area.
Stage 6: Mayrhofen — Pfitsch — Sterzing
I take the shuttle to the impressive Schlegeis reservoir. The bright blue water of the reservoir lies against the backdrop of mighty glaciers — a breathtaking sight. But today I am about to cross the main Alpine ridge. I follow the path over glistening slate slabs and alpine streams. Then the moment has come: I cross the border from Austria to Italy and thus the main Alpine ridge! If you like, you can stop off at the Pfitscherjochhaus, but I descend directly into the Pfitschtal valley and take the bus to Sterzing. I explore the historic alleyways in the charming old town before checking into the Hotel Rosskopf. The next day, I return home with many impressions in my luggage.
Would you like to experience this Alpine crossing for yourself?
We have carefully planned and optimized the hiking tour to guarantee an unforgettable and safe hiking experience