Mayrhofen holidays

How to reach Mayrhofen

Flight time: Flights to Innsbruck from London, the nearest airport to Mayrhofen, take about 2 hours. Other major UK airports, such as Manchester and Birmingham, also offer direct flights to Innsbruck.

Transfer time: From Innsbruck Airport, you can take a train to Mayrhofen, which takes around 1 hour 45 minutes.

Price: The train from Innsbruck Airport to Mayrhofen costs around €15–€20.

Weather and best time to visit Mayrhofen

Deciding when to visit Mayrhofen depends on whether you prefer to enjoy its winter sports or other activities at different times of the year. Here’s a guide to help you choose the best time for your holidays to Mayrhofen:

• December to February is the peak season for skiing and snowboarding, and the village is bustling with winter sports enthusiasts. Temperatures range from -5 to 5°C, and snowfall is abundant.

• March to May offers the tail end of the ski season and the beginning of spring, a quieter time than winter, with fewer tourists. Average temperatures range from 0 to 10°C, with decreasing snowfall and plenty of sunshine.

• June to August is ideal for hiking, mountain biking and enjoying the lush green alpine scenery. Average temperatures rise to 15–25°C, with occasional rain and long, light days.

• September to November is perfect for those who enjoy tranquillity. Temperatures drop from 10 to 2°C, and there is an increasing chance of early snow. It’s a peaceful time to explore the area before the winter crowds return.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: German is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas. Learning a few basic phrases is appreciated.

• Local habits and customs: Austrians value punctuality and politeness. Greeting people with a friendly Grüss Gott and always thanking your hosts (danke) when leaving a place is appreciated.

• Currency: Austria uses the Euro (€). ATMs are widely available, with debit and credit cards accepted in most establishments.

• Getting around: The village of Mayrhofen is compact and walkable. Buses and trains are available for longer trips, and the Zillertalbahn train is a scenic way to explore the Zillertal valley.

• Electricity and plug types: Austria's supply is 230V and uses the standard European plug types C and F with two round pins. UK travellers will need an adaptor.

• Time zone: Austria is on Central European Time (CET), which is 1 hour ahead of GMT, and observes Daylight Saving Time.

Best things to do in Mayrhofen

Nestled in the stunning Zillertal Valley, Mayrhofen offers a delightful mix of adventure, culture and natural beauty. Here’s the best of what Mayrhofen holidays have to offer:

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Ahorn Plateau: Take the Ahornbahn cable car up Mount Ahorn for breathtaking views over the Zillertal Alps. The viewing platform is perfect for panoramic photos and enjoying the serene mountain landscape.

• Mount Penken: The Penkenbahn gondola takes you to the top of the mountain, where you can enjoy stunning vistas and a variety of hiking trails. The views from here are spectacular and provide a fantastic backdrop for outdoor activities.

Historic monuments

• Mayrhofen Parish Church: This charming 18th-century church, with its beautiful baroque architecture and peaceful atmosphere, is a lovely spot to visit.

• Strasser House Museum: Learn about the history of the Strasser family – known for their yodelling and singing traditions and famous for their part in making Silent Night so well known – at this small but informative museum that offers a glimpse into the cultural heritage of the Zillertal Valley.

Day trips in the area

• Hintertux Glacier: Just a short drive from Mayrhofen, this glacier offers year-round skiing, stunning panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and tours of an ice cave with a glacial lake.

• Zillertal High Elevation Road: Take a scenic drive along the high alpine Zillertaler Höhenstrasse for incredible views of the valley and mountains. There are plenty of spots to stop and take in the scenery, with hiking trails and picnic areas along the way.

• Krimml Waterfalls: The highest waterfalls in Austria, Krimml Waterfalls make for a great day trip. The walk to the top is rewarding, with beautiful views along the way, and the falls themselves are a spectacular sight.

Activities for families in Mayrhofen

Mayrhofen is a fantastic destination for families, offering a variety of activities that cater to all ages. Here’s a roundup of what families can enjoy:

• Swimming pools: The Erlebnisbad Mayrhofen features indoor and outdoor pools, including a children’s pool and water slides, making it a perfect spot for family fun.

• Museums: The Strasser House Museum offers interactive exhibits that provide children with a fun and educational experience, focusing on local history and traditions.

• Other: Tobogganing on the Hainzenberg run, ice skating, curling and guided nature walks are all great ways for families to explore and enjoy Mayrhofen.

Free things to do in Mayrhofen

Mayrhofen offers plenty of free activities that allow you to enjoy its beauty and charm without spending a penny. Here are some great options:

• Free events: Mayrhofen hosts various free events throughout the year, such as outdoor concerts, village festivals and seasonal celebrations that offer a taste of local culture and entertainment.

• Hiking: Exploring the scenic hiking trails around Mayrhofen is completely free. Trails like the one to Zimmereben offer beautiful views and are perfect for a leisurely walk.

Nature and outdoor activities

• Hiking: The region boasts an extensive network of trails suitable for all levels of hikers. Routes like the Zimmereben Trail and the Stilluptal Valley offer breathtaking views and are perfect for exploring the area's natural beauty.

• Mountain biking: With numerous trails ranging from easy to challenging, Mayrhofen is a fantastic destination for mountain bikers. Some of the 800km of well-marked trails can be accessed by cable car, taking you quickly up into the mountains for some fantastic high-up riding.

• Paragliding: Experience the thrill of paragliding over the Alps. Tandem flights are available for beginners, offering a bird’s-eye view of the stunning landscape and the opportunity to soar above the majestic peaks.

• Fishing: The rivers and lakes around Mayrhofen are perfect for fishing enthusiasts. Spend a peaceful day by the water, surrounded by the serene beauty of the alpine environment.

• Wildlife watching: The region is home to a variety of wildlife, including ibex, marmots and golden eagles. Guided wildlife tours provide opportunities to observe these animals in their natural habitat and learn about the local ecosystem.

• Canyoning: For an adventurous day out, try canyoning in the nearby gorges. This activity involves descending a canyon and navigating through its various obstacles, including waterfalls and rock pools, using techniques like abseiling, jumping and sliding.

• Ziplining: Experience the thrill of ziplining over the alpine landscape. The high ropes courses and zipline parks in the region offer an exciting way to enjoy the scenery from above.

Local dishes in Mayrhofen

One of the great delights of holidays to Mayrhofen is indulging in the hearty and delicious culinary offerings that reflect the alpine traditions of Austria. Here’s what you should look out for:

Some typical dishes

• Käsespätzle: A traditional dish of soft egg noodles layered with melted cheese and topped with crispy onions. It’s Austria’s answer to macaroni cheese and is perfect for warming up after a day in the mountains.

• Tafelspitz: Slow-boiled beef served with horseradish and apple sauce. It’s a comforting dish often accompanied by vegetables and potatoes.

• Wienerschnitzel: Although originally from Vienna, this breaded and fried veal or pork cutlet is now a favourite throughout Austria.

Meat dishes

• Gröstl: A hearty Tyrolean dish made from fried potatoes, onions, and leftover pork or beef, topped with a fried egg. It’s a great choice for a filling meal after a day of skiing.

• Tiroler Speckknödel: Bacon dumplings served in a rich beef broth. These dumplings are packed with flavour and are a staple in alpine cuisine.

Sweets and desserts

• Apfelstrudel: A classic Austrian dessert of apples, cinnamon, raisins and sugar, all wrapped in a thin pastry and baked until golden.

• Kaiserschmarrn: Fluffy shredded pancakes sprinkled with powdered sugar and served with a side of fruit compote. It’s a popular dessert that’s also great for breakfast.

• Sachertorte: A rich chocolate cake with a layer of apricot jam, covered in dark chocolate icing. Originally from Vienna, it’s a favourite across Austria.

Local drinks

• Glühwein: Warm yourself up with a mug of this spiced mulled wine, which is especially popular in winter.

• Schnapps: Try the local fruit brandies, which come in a variety of flavours such as pear, apricot and plum.

• Beer: Austria has a strong beer culture, and in Innsbruck, you’ll find plenty of local brews to enjoy. A pint of Märzen or Dunkel is a perfect accompaniment to a hearty meal.

Sports Activities in Mayrhofen for Your Holiday

Mayrhofen is a paradise for sports enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of activities throughout the year. Whether you're visiting in winter or summer, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this vibrant Tyrolean town.

Winter Sports

Skiing and Snowboarding Mayrhofen is renowned for its extensive ski area, which is part of the larger Zillertal region. The Penken and Ahorn mountains offer a variety of slopes suitable for all levels, from beginner-friendly runs to the challenging Harakiri, one of the steepest slopes in Austria. The interconnected ski areas mean you can explore a vast terrain without having to leave the region.

Ski Schools and Camps For those new to winter sports or looking to improve their skills, Mayrhofen has several highly-rated ski schools and sports camps. These schools provide lessons for all ages and abilities, ensuring everyone can make the most of the snowy landscape.

Rise & Fall Event A unique and thrilling event held every January is the Rise & Fall relay race. This competition involves teams of four athletes who each take on different sports: ski mountaineering, mountain biking, paragliding, and Alpine skiing or snowboarding. It’s a spectacular event that showcases the versatility and excitement of winter sports in Mayrhofen.

Summer Sports

Hiking and Trail Running When the snow melts, Mayrhofen transforms into a haven for hikers and trail runners. The Mayrhofen Ultraks, held in September, is a major trail running event featuring various distances that challenge both elite and recreational runners. The trails offer stunning views of the Zillertal Alps, making it a visually and physically rewarding experience.

Mountain Biking The summer months also open up a vast network of mountain biking trails. From leisurely valley rides to intense downhill tracks, there are routes to suit all levels of cyclists. The Penken Mountain is a particularly popular spot for mountain biking, offering both challenging trails and panoramic views.

Paragliding For a unique perspective of the Zillertal Valley, try paragliding. Mayrhofen’s ideal wind conditions and stunning landscapes make it a top destination for both novice and experienced paragliders. Several local operators provide tandem flights, allowing you to soar above the beautiful alpine scenery safely and enjoyably.

Water Sports

Canyoning and Rafting The Zillertal Valley’s rivers and gorges offer exciting opportunities for canyoning and rafting. These adrenaline-pumping activities are perfect for those looking to experience the natural beauty of the area from a different angle. Local guides ensure that both activities are safe and enjoyable, making them suitable for families and adventure seekers alike.

By incorporating a mix of winter and summer sports into your holiday, you can fully appreciate the dynamic and adventurous spirit of Mayrhofen. Whether you’re hitting the slopes, running the trails, or soaring through the skies, Mayrhofen promises an unforgettable sporting experience.