Wattenberg is picturesquely situated at an elevation of about 1,000 metres, high above the Inn Valley. Hiking trails, a distinctive alpine landscape and traces of mining each offer something different. When planning your stay, you can choose whether to focus on short circular walks, longer hikes or cultural sights. The stated walking times make it easier to compare routes; most are approximate.

Hiking by Duration and Route Type

The “Little Circular Hiking Trail” starts and ends at the Gasthof Hanneburger in Wattenberg and takes about two hours. The Wuzelschellweg is listed as taking roughly the same amount of time: this moderate hike covers 6.10 kilometres and 378 metres of elevation gain. The “Wattenberg Forest Loop” takes about three hours; it starts and ends at the Gasthof Mühle. This gives you two roughly two-hour options and one longer loop to choose from. For the Wuzelschellweg, the difficulty, distance and elevation gain are also specified.

The Lizumer Zirbenweg leads from Lager Walchen to the Lizumer Hütte through an old Swiss stone pine forest. The “Lizumer Zirbenweg B” route also starts at Lager Walchen in Wattenberg and leads to the Lizumer Hütte; it takes about 2.5 hours. The “Lizum–Mölser Berg” route starts there and leads to Mölssee in about 4.5 hours. The “Mölstal–Lizumer Hütte” circular hike takes about 6.5 hours and starts and ends at Lager Walchen. The stated times clearly distinguish the routes by duration. Check the current regional hiking map before setting out, as route details may change.

Mölssee and the Wattental Valley

Mölssee lies at an elevation of 2,238 metres. It is 144 metres long, up to 65 metres wide and covers an area of 8,430 square metres. It can only be reached on foot. As it is located in a military restricted area, access may not always be possible; check whether access is permitted before your visit.

The Wattener Lizum forms the eastern end of the Wattental Valley and includes several alpine pastures. The long-distance “Dream Path from Munich to Venice” also passes through the Wattental Valley on its way to the Lizumer Hütte. There are ski touring routes of varying difficulty around the hut. Options range from paths through the Swiss stone pine forest and a longer hike to Mölssee to ski tours around the Lizumer Hütte.

Mining, Churches and Rural Culture

The iron mine in the Mölstal Valley opened in 1315 and is considered the oldest mine in North Tyrol. The church at the Lizum military training area offers a different cultural highlight: it stands at an elevation of just under 2,000 metres and is one of the highest-altitude churches in Austria. Wattenberg also has numerous small chapels that invite visitors to stop and spend some time. Those interested in local history and the built landscape will find a range of subjects in one place.

Many of Wattenberg’s traditional farmhouses have been lovingly and stylishly renovated in recent years. Cheese-making is also part of the area’s history: since 1996, the Außermelang Alm in Wattenberg has produced its own cheese. Near the Lizumer Hütte, the Lizumer Almkäserei offers “Lizumer Almkas” and “Lizumer Kasermandl” (Tilsiter) in a self-service refrigerator. Check availability locally.

Seasonal Activities and Events

In summer, guided llama treks through the Wattenberg forest take place in Wattenberg every Friday at 2 p.m. Check the dates before your trip. Services at Sägerkirche also follow a regular weekly schedule: they take place every Sunday at 8:30 a.m.; check the current service schedule before your visit.

In winter, the small Wildstättlift is suitable for children, beginners and those returning to skiing; its operation depends on natural snow. The “Kreuztaxen” toboggan run is very close to the lift. Check current operating conditions before visiting. This lets you plan your stay around the activities you actually intend to do, without treating short walks, longer mountain hikes and seasonal offerings as equivalent.

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