An annual tradition, historical transport links and various routes through gorges offer different possible focuses for a stay in Zirl. There are also castles and other listed sites. Those who prefer spending time outdoors can explore the Maximilian Grotto, the Martinswand and the described gorge trails.

Zachäussingen: a tradition with a fixed date

Zachäussingen is an annual fair tradition in Zirl. It takes place on the third Sunday in October from 4:30 a.m. As the exact calendar date changes from year to year, check the date and start time for your chosen year if you are planning your trip around it. In September 2015, Zirl’s Zachäussingen was added to UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list. The tradition thus combines a specific annual date with lasting recognition as cultural heritage.

For travel planning, this is a different approach from a visit focused primarily on architectural and local history: Zachäussingen centres on a particular Sunday in October. By contrast, historical sites and buildings can be explored as topics related to Zirl independently of this annual date.

From Teriolis to the castles

Zirl’s historical position on transport routes dates back a long way. In the 4th or 5th century BC, the Roman military station of Teriolis stood at the intersection of important transport routes. In 1280, Zirl was mentioned as a relay station and a storage depot for goods transported by packhorse, as well as a transport hub for the roads from Innsbruck to Telfs and from Innsbruck to Mittenwald. The two dates describe different periods: Teriolis belongs to the Roman era, while the stated functions and road connections are documented for the Middle Ages.

The history of the castles also spans several periods. The construction of Fragenstein Castle is estimated to have taken place between 1200 and 1227. According to the Tyrolean heritage register dated 23 June 2026, the Fragenstein Castle ruins are protected by official order. St. Martinsberg Castle, located in Zirl, was expanded into a hunting lodge with a menagerie around 1500 under Emperor Maximilian. These are two distinct building histories: the estimated construction period of Fragenstein and the later expansion of St. Martinsberg.

The Old Roman Bridge in Zirl is protected by regulation. The Catholic parish church of the Holy Cross and the cemetery are also protected by regulation. The Tyrolean heritage register dated 23 June 2026 is authoritative for these protection details. Together with the Fragenstein ruins, they draw attention not only to castles but also to the bridge, church and cemetery as historical sites in their own right.

Martinswand and trails through gorges

The Maximilian Grotto is in the Martinswand near Zirl, around 200 metres above the floor of the Inn Valley. The natural cave is 26 metres wide and 19 metres high. Its approximate elevation describes its position above the valley floor; its width and height give an idea of the cave’s dimensions. The Martinswand is also a popular climbing hotspot today. Conditions on climbing routes can change.

Trail features offer different points of reference for planning hikes. The trail through the Ehnbach Gorge is well secured with footbridges, steps and wire ropes. As trail infrastructure can change, check its condition before setting out. An easy circular hike in the Lower Schlossbach Gorge starts at a covered wooden bridge and continues through the large natural rock arch into the Lower Gorge. A waterfall lies at the end of the trail; how it looks depends on the water level. Water and trail conditions there can vary seasonally.

Which of these topics you choose depends on what you would like to focus on: Zachäussingen takes place on the same date each year, the historical sites span different periods, and the hikes centre on specific routes. When searching for hotels in Zirl, you can use your planned travel dates and the topics you would like to explore as a starting point.

Discover more destinations: Gries Am Brenner, Mils Bei Hall, Rinn, Igls, Grinzens, Gschnitz, Kematen In Tirol, Patsch.

Back to the regional travel overview: Innsbruck-Land.