Our Top 10 Summer Highlights
The stage is set for the Alps' most beautiful retreat
The Diamond of the Alps reveals its multifaceted side even in summer. Boredom is unknown in Gurgl: lace up your hiking boots, hop on your bike or cruise along the Timmelsjoch High Alpine Road while immersing yourself ever deeper in a world of alpine peaks, glaciers and crisp mountain air.
We are crossing ravines, marveling at sweeping vistas and savoring the delightful side of the high mountains. Facet by facet, you can discover Gurgl a little better and perhaps even yourself.
Ready for your getaway above 2,000 meters?
Lake Soomsee
Gurgl's mountain lakes reflect the high alpine landscape like giant diamonds. One of them: picture-book lake Soomsee. Perfect for a true refreshment on warm summer days and for a journey into times long past.
Where clear mountain lakes now glitter, mighty glaciers once shaped the landscape. The high alpine plateau and its lakes still bear witness to this primal force. Even the uphill hike makes a unique experience: alpine plants, sweeping views and - with a bit of luck - you can watch eagles, chamois and other wildlife in the distance.
It's about 700 altitude meters from the valley floor to the lake. A quite challenging hike, but every step is worth it.
Langtalereckhütte Hut
This mountain bike tour truly promises sweeping views. The wide gravel path up to Langtalereckhütte mountain hut leads through an impressive high alpine landscape, past majestic mountains, lush meadows and ever deeper into the glacier world.
The route ascends around 700 meters in altitude, alternating between moderate stretches and challenging climbs, Those riding an e-bike have even more time to admire the view of Hangerer, Gurgl's landmark mountain, and the Haflinger horses and sheep that spend the whole summer up here.
At the top, great enjoyment is coupled with a view: on Langtalereckhütte's sunny terrace or later at Schönwieshütte during a stop on the way back to the valley floor.
Piccard Bridge
If you haven't had enough after hiking or biking to Langtalereckhütte, you will find a real highlight in the uppermost part of Gurgl's valley: scenic Piccard Bridge. Built in 2017, this suspension bridge spans a ravine about 100 meters deep and connects the two sides of the valley over a length of 142 meters.
Always in view: Gurgl's scenic glacier. Back in 1931, it became the scene of a remarkable adventure when explorer and researcher Auguste Piccard had to make an emergency landing in his hot-air balloon on the glacier - not far from where the bridge stands today.
You don't have to be quite so daring nowadays. But a good head for heights is definitely a must.
Timmelsjoch Drive
30 hairpin bends, gradients of up to 13 % and a mountain pass at 2,474 m: scenic Timmelsjoch High Alpine Road leads from Hochgurgl into Passeiertal valley while it tells stories of nature, history and the limits of alpine adventure at six interactive stations.
Right at the start of this legendary pass road you will find the Top Mountain Motorcycle Experience. Europe's highest motorcycle museum houses over 500 historic motorbikes and classic cars! A real must-see for motorsport fans and anyone who loves extraordinary places.
Smugglers' Hike
Near Timmelsjoch Pass, there is a quieter gateway to the south: hidden Königsjoch saddle at 2,825 m. It nestles at the rear end of picturesque Königstal side valley and is only accessible on foot.
The trail leads past an old customs hut, following traces deeply rooted in history. Smugglers once used this route between Austria and Italy, carrying food, livestock, cigarettes and anything else that could fit in their backpacks.
Today, the tour is a challenging hike on historical tracks, offering superb panoramic views with a typical alpine character.
Zirbenwald Via Ferrata
Adventure seekers, watch out: the family-friendly via ferrata of Zirbenwald stone pine forest starts right away with a little test of courage and a wobbly Nepalese bridge high above Ötztaler Ache river.
After that, the route continues into the valley in a well-secured way along the ravine. The rushing mountain brook and the view of high alpine landscapes are ever-present. The key section awaits you just before the end, followed by an exit route that rewards you with awe-inspiring vistas towards the valley's uppermost part.
Those who prefer to take in the view first can follow the easy hiking trail to the exit point.
Guided forest bathing at Ochsenkopf
The "Forest Bathing at Ochsenkopf" Discovery Trail invites you to pause and reflect at 12 stations. Using a web app, you will find step-by-step breathing exercises & meditation units, accompanied by the forest, light and silence.
Simply scan the QR code, breathe consciously and immerse yourself in what makes Gurgl so special in summer: crisp and clear mountain air, tranquil moments amid nature and the peaceful atmosphere of the mountains. Just perfect for anyone who wants to actively unwind and recharge.
Alpine Cuisine in Gurgl
In Gurgl, culinary delights begin where alpine quality meets creative cooking art. Regional ingredients, traditional recipes and modern interpretations define the Alpine Cuisine: clear, high-quality, deeply rooted in the mountains.
Ranging from authentic mountain cooking on alpine pasture huts to toque-awarded restaurants and Michelin-starred cuisine, Gurgl also offers a variety of culinary experiences. It means that you can look forward to exceptional taste sensations, genuine products and enjoyment with a view right in the heart of the high mountains.
Hohe Mut Saddleback
Not just two or three, but 21 three-thousand-meter high peaks await you at Hohe Mut. The wide open alpine saddleback at 2,653 m boasts awe-inspiring views of summits, glaciers and the serene grandeur of the high mountains.
You can get especially close to this majestic landscape on the easy loop hiking trail along the ridge of Hohe Mut. Those who want to combine wonder and enjoyment will find the perfect spot on the panoramic terrace of Hohe Mut Alm.
And afterward? A comfortable gondola ride back down to the valley floor.
This article was originally published in May 2022 and updated on 27.07.2026.