Wanderlust Travel Magazine (UK)
ST. JOHANN IN TIROL
Peaks, labyrinths, moors & more
St. Johann in Tirol is situated next to Kitzbühel, making it a great spot from which to tread the 200km of hiking trails to be found between Kitzbüheler Horn and the Wilder Kaiser. There are natural spectacles such as the Grießbach Gorge in Erpfendorf to find and areas of natural conservation and beauty, such as the Kaiserbachtal
Valley, to wander in; all equating to an active and relaxing break.
With its far-reaching views across the Kitzbüheler Alpen,
a ride on the Harschbichlbahn Cable Car up the Kitzbühel Horn is an experience in itself. This is also a convenient way to enjoy
the multitude of activities and routes to be found on the mountain, with two stopping points: the mid-way station at Koasaburg; and the top station at Harschbichl.
From Harschbichl, the 6km Horn Panorama Circuit is a popular choice that climbs up to the summit with paths crossing alpine pastures and narrow ridges, and plenty of viewing points along the way.
Meanwhile, the single-track Harschbichl Trail from Koasaburg will be of special interest for mountain bikers. Winding down from the mid-way station to the valley floor, expect to fly through forest thickets and emerald fields, over bridges and, on the final stretch, see the Wilder Kaiser Mountains and the Leukental Valley set before you.
Kletterwald Hornpark is a tree top adventure park that can also be found by the cable car’s middle station, with climbing courses and zip lines to brave, and for an alternative return journey to the valley, why not try a thrilling three-wheeled descent on a mountain cart?
If you’re searching for some unique hiking opportunities, then St. Johann in Tirol won’t disappoint. An easy walk to the Eifersbacher Waterfall in Winkl-schattseite is perfect to escape the summer heat, with paths that pass under shady forests and the cool spray of spring water to enjoy. Then there are the forest trails of Teufelsgasse near Gasteig guaranteed to set adventurers’ passions alight with thin labyrinthic passages carved straight into the rock. Moreover, don’t miss the moors on the south-eastern side of the Kaiser mountains; there are two loop trails that peacefully meander through these natural gems of the Wilder Kaiser, with information panels to find about the unique flora and fauna. What ‘moor’ could you ask for?