Sustainability in Gurgl
Deeply rooted, at home in the heights
This is where pristine nature meets a commitment to sustainability. Amidst varied landscapes, regional delicacies and innovative solutions, there is a region that consciously looks toward the future while preserving its roots.
Bewusst Tirol Quality Seal
Gurgl focuses on short supply chains, seasonal products and solid partnerships with local producers.
The coveted "Bewusst Tirol" quality seal puts the origin of food in the spotlight and recognizes partner businesses that consistently focus on regional products. It strengthens cooperation between agriculture and tourism by ensuring that more local ingredients find their way straight to your plate.
In this regard, Ötztal is developing into a true model region: over 30 partner businesses are already certified and many more are in the process of doing so. This puts the valley in a leading position in Tirol when it comes to promoting gastronomical regionality.
Ötztal Nature Park
The unique Ötztal Nature Park is one of Tirol's largest protected areas, preserving an alpine landscape of exceptional biodiversity. Glaciers, high alpine trails and rare habitats provide refuge zones for countless animal and plant species within the entire Ötztal and also in Gurgl.
At the same time, the Nature Park makes nature accessible and easily understandable. The Nature Park Info Point Hohe Mut Alm as well as guided tours and research projects bring topics such as climate, geology and biodiversity to life. Protected areas and quiet zones ensure the preservation of nature in the long term.
A year-round program of guided hikes, snowshoe tours and theme trails opens up new perspectives on the huge range of the alpine environment. Whether natural history trails, archaeological paths or geo-routes, each trail tells its own story.
Ötztal Nature park Facts
🏔️ 510.5 km² in size
🥈 Tirol's 2nd largest nature park
🌱 Austria's 3rd largest nature park
❄️ 91 km² glacier area
🧊 67 glaciers
🥾 1,600 km high alpine trail network
⛰️ 152 peaks over 3,00 meters
💧 Tirol's largest waterfall
Protected Recreation Areas in the Nature Park
Culture, Tradition & Customs
The Ötztal Museums are central hubs of regional cultural heritage and make the valley's history accessible in a variety of ways. Several exhibitions, events and educational programs address defining topics of the region, ranging from natural landscapes and glacial development to rural life, archaeology and architectural heritage. Interactive formats such as photo walks and audio guides offer completely new perspectives, allowing visitors to individually trace the development of the region, its villages and their ways of life.
A particular cultural treasure is the Ötztal dialect: as part of the intangible cultural heritage, it plays an important role in regional identity. The digital Ötztal dialect dictionary documents this unique linguistic area and makes it accessible to everyone. Terms like "Marend" (afternoon snack) or "Sunna" (sun) show how closely language, everyday life and the spirit of Ötztal valley are intertwined - robust, distinctive and deeply rooted in the region.
Climate, Energy & Mobility
- Winter Sports, Energy & Snowmaking
Winter sports in Ötztal are increasingly relying on sustainable solutions: mountain lifts use green electricity and photovoltaic devices, while modern snowmaking systems operate in a resource-efficient way using water from local reservoirs. Free skibus shuttles further reduce private car traffic. - Mobility & Getting There
A well-developed public transportation infrastructure promises relaxed and environmentally friendly travel options. Bus connections in 30-minute intervals throughout the valley, direct train connections and seasonal services such as ski and hiking buses promote car-free mobility. The 50 km long Ötztal Cycle Trail complements the varied offer in summer. - E-Mobility
With around 100 charging stations and over 160 charging points, sustainable mobility is actively supported. The dense network makes it easy to travel comfortably by electric car throughout the valley.
Region & Accessibility
Barrier-free accessibility stands for an environment that is accessible to everyone - regardless of individual needs and circumstances. It ensures a self-determined travel experience for families, seniors and people with disabilities alike.
Special attention is paid to key infrastructure such as mountain lifts, medical care, local amenities and public transportation. Many services and facilities are accessible without any barriers and clearly marked.
- Wide doors and passageways (min. 80 cm clearance width)
- Rooms with sufficient maneuvering space (150 cm maneuvering space)
- Good lighting in all areas
- In multi-story buildings: an elevator is available and large enough for wheelchairs (min. 150 cm maneuvering space); controls and buttons are easily accessible and have tactile labels (80 to 110 cm height)
- Accessible restrooms (min. 150 cm maneuvering space) and grab handles (80 to 110 cm height)
- Adequate number of clearly marked disabled parking spaces near the entrance
- Information material such as brochures and websites freely accessible and usable for everyone
Green Event – Audi FIS Alpine Ski World Cup Gurgl
Sustainability also plays a central role in events held within the valley. Green events like the Audi FIS Alpine Ski World Cup Gurgl adhere to recognized standards such as "Green Events Tirol" and "Green Events Austria."
The focus is on resource-saving organization: less waste, increased use of regional products, conscious energy use and targeted measures to raise awareness among visitors and organizers. Even smaller events like the Glacier Trail Run demonstrate how sustainability can be actively practiced.
This effort results in events that not only inspire but also take responsibility in harmony with nature, the region and the future.
Platform of inclusion & creativity. Artists with disabilities present their artworks, gaining visibility, recognition & awards as part of VOI fesch Art Prize.
Charity event with heart. Tirol's hotel owners & innkeepers support Tiroleans in need - culinary treats, community and donations for financially troubled families.
Digitalization
Digitalization stands for both efficiency and excellent service with a focus on sustainability.
- Reducing print products in favor of digital information channels
- Digital guest communication from ticketing to service
- Smart systems for energy and process management
This effort results in modern solutions that conserve resources while simultaneously improving holiday experiences for our guests.
Mobilität im Tal
Mit den öffentlichen Verkehrsmitteln praktisch & nachhaltig durch das gesamte Tal.