Between the first mention of Itter Castle in 1255 and its confiscation in 1943, the town’s history saw very different chapters. It also features listed religious buildings, an annual September celebration and clearly marked starting points for village trails. The choice of activities also changes with the seasons: in winter, a lift to the ski area and cross-country ski trails are among the main sporting options. This makes it easy to plan your stay in Itter around history, local traditions and outdoor activities.
Castle History and Religious Heritage
Itter Castle was first mentioned in 1255. In 1943, the Wehrmacht confiscated the castle and used it as a satellite camp of Dachau concentration camp. These two dates span very different chapters in the castle’s history: its first mention in the 13th century and a significant event of the Second World War. For those interested in cultural history, this offers a specific way to explore the town’s past; the churches and festival add other, religious dimensions.
The Austrian Federal Monuments Authority’s register dated 28 May 2024 lists the Catholic parish church of St Joseph in Itter and the court chapel of St Anthony in Oberlaiming, Itter, as protected monuments. Another chapel stands on the Kraftalm in Itter: built in 1983, it was dedicated to the patron saints of dairy farming—St Lucio, St Theodul and St Fridolin. Its dedication explicitly reflects the religious connection to dairy farming, setting it apart from the two protected buildings.
Itter’s Festival Sunday in September
Itter’s Festival Sunday is a long-standing celebration in the municipality of Itter and takes place every year in September. The procession is held on the Sunday after 8 September. The festival’s historical roots lie in the “Brotherhood of the Seven Holy Refuges.” This annual event brings together a specific date rule, a procession and a religious heritage. If you would like to plan your stay around the festival, check the date for the relevant year before travelling.
Village Trails and Access to the rITTERspielplatz
It is useful to know the starting points of the two trails: the Rosenweg begins at the village square in Itter, while the Dorfrunde Itter starts at the tourist information office. Its signposting points towards the Rosenweg (No. 4). The two trails therefore have different starting points; choose your route based on where you would like to begin. The rITTERspielplatz playground is also located on the Rosenweg in Itter. It can only be reached on foot; access by car is not possible. Keep this access restriction in mind if you are planning to visit the playground.
Swimming and Winter Sports
Itter’s outdoor swimming pool has a solar-heated swimming pool and a children’s pool with a small slide. This adds a specific swimming option to the cultural attractions and village trails.
In winter, the Salvistabahn Itter provides direct access to the SkiWelt Wilder Kaiser – Brixental ski area. The lift operates seasonally, and operating details may change; check the latest information if you are planning your stay around it. Free cross-country ski trails are available on the Itter sun plateau. Before travelling, check both their availability and whether they have been groomed. The two options offer different kinds of winter sport: the lift provides access to the ski area, while the trails offer a free way to go cross-country skiing. Seasonality and current conditions should therefore be part of your activity planning.
Discover more destinations: Hopfgarten im Brixental, Jochberg, Oberndorf in Tirol, Kössen, Kirchberg in Tirol, Schwendt, Westendorf, Brixen im Thale
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