Achensee (Pertisau, Maurach, Achenkirch, Steinberg, Wiesing)

Achensee

Relaxation on the Tyrolean Fjord

Three medium-sized Ski areas at 1,000 meters above sea level that meet a variety of requirements. Add to that a few smaller drag lifts between the sometimes rugged mountains of the Rofan - all together it forms a secluded but easily accessible winter destination. In the case of Lake Achensee, "sea level" is the pure truth. The fjord lake often has frosty temperatures, which contributes to the mental connection with more northern regions. But it is also the sporty atmosphere that fits. In summer and winter, you can admire sports extremists here who prefer to compete in endurance sports. Or jump into the lake on New Year's Eve. You can only watch in amazement. Otherwise, activity is also the main focus for guests.

Five places are part of the region: Steinberg and Wiesing, which is already in the Inn Valley, are out of the way. Interest is concentrated on Achenkirch, Maurach and Pertisau, where most of the most comfortable hotels can be found. The focus is on the excellent hotels, while the winter sports resorts themselves can boast of being manageable and - unlike in midsummer - quiet. Some of the districts are far apart. In Achenkirch, for example, there are hardly any houses around the church; instead, a second center has already formed at the valley station of the Christlum ski area. The ORTOVOX touring educational trail in the Rofan in Maurach is still quite new. At seven stations, information is provided on correct alpine behavior and how to use avalanche transceiver, shovel and probe. It is aimed not only at ski tourers, but also at snowshoe hikers. Over a distance of around 2 km, 200 meters in altitude and with 7 large information boards, you can move along safe paths through the Rofan Mountains.

The Christlum offers the largest selection of the three ski areas. Even slopes suitable for beginners dominate the picture and prove to be ideal for families with young children. Two "black" slopes sneak almost unnoticed into the Gföllalmgraben. Halfpipe, boardercross and the illuminated toboggan run complete the Christlum.

If you want something a little quieter, we recommend the cosy Rofan lifts in the 1,000-meter-high Steinberg am Rofan with manageable pistes, safe slopes and an idyllic landscape. The small, fine ski area (blue: 1 km) is particularly suitable for beginners.

From Pertisau from there you float with the Karwendel mountain railway to the Zwölferkopf, the descents lead somewhat hidden far out on ski trails down to the valley. At the top, drag lifts can be used in the rather easy terrain. Those who prefer to stay down in the valley for now can practice on the Planberg and Wiesen lifts in Pertisau or at Astberg Lift in Wiesing (blue: 1 km). These routes are even suitable for the little ones and the friendly staff ensure a family-friendly atmosphere.

For adventurous fun is the Rofan cable car from Maurach. There are not only a few pistes and hiking trails there, but also the AIRROFAN skyglider not far from the mountain station. As if carried by eagle's wings, the view falls into the valley while you are pulled 200 meters up towards Gschöllkopf. Then you head back at 80 km/h. The snow kite school also promises action. To really let off steam, you're better off using cross-country skis. The more than 200 kilometers of trails up to the tranquil Steinberg are great. For barrier-free cross-country skiing, the signs for appropriately prepared trails have been supplemented with sled cross-country skiing stickers.