Holidays in Westendorf

On an Inghams walking holiday, you have the freedom to explore the area at your own pace. Each day, a new adventure, with as much or as little walking as you like.

Why we love walking in Westendorf

In Westendorf alone, there are over 200 kilometres of perfectly tended and signposted hiking trails to explore with around 800 kilometres in the wider region which is easily accessible thanks to the fantastic bus, train and lift network. Walk across lush pastures and gentle grass mountains to rustic alpine huts where the traditional culinary delights await - ideal for the gourmet hiker! The views are spectacular at every turn, and some of area's trails have earned the Austrian Hiking Seal of Quality which recognises outstanding walking.

The Hiking and Stamp Book serve as an inspiration and motivation to go hiking in the mountains and you can collect points at most summits and at many of the mountain huts along the routes. Earn enough points and you can collect hiking pins from the Tourist Office.

Guided Walks

Westendorf Tourist Office offers a varied programme of guided walks (some supplements apply) for all abilities, enabling you to discover some of Westendorf's most scenic spots with a guide, learning fascinating information about the area along the way (book directly with the tourist office).

There is also the option to join two Inghams guided walks per week from Kitzbühel - see the tab below for further details.

The start points of many walks are easily reached on foot from Westendorf and the neighbouring village of Brixen is only a short walk away. For exploring high into the mountains and further afield, there is a superb network of chairlifts and gondolas, buses and trains in the valley making access to summits and linking walks very easy.

Lifts

There are up to 14 lifts open in the area during the summer, normally from the end of May/beginning of June until October. Round trips start from about €34 so if you're planning to use them a lot during your stay it may be worth buying a Mountain Experience Card or Kitzbühel Alps Summer Card to make the most of the area in a cost-effective way - see the Cards & Passes tab for more details.

The lifts open in the summer are:

• Alpenrosenbahn 1 and 2 in Westendorf (normally open from 18 May)
• Hochbrixen and Zinsbergbahn in Brixen (normally open from 18 May)
• Salvenbahn 1 and 2 in Hopfgarten (normally open from 18 May)
• Hochsöll, Hohe Salve and Keat in Söll (normally open from 9 May)
• Hartkaiserbahn in Ellmau (normally open from 9 May)
• Astbergbahn in Going (normally open from 8 Jun)
• Brandstadlbahn in Scheffau (normally open from 18 May)
• Kaiserlift in Kufstein (normally open from beginning May)
• Salvistabahn in Itter (limited opening days throughout the season)

Subject to change.

Buses and trains

From Westendorf station trains run in either direction to Wörgl and Hochfilzen, via places like Kitzbühel and St. Johann. Your guest card from your hotel entitles you to free travel between Wörgl and Hochfilzen - if you want to explore further, you can purchase tickets at the train station.

You guest card also entitles you to free bus travel in the region.

Local buses from Westendorf connect to Hopfgarten and Kitzbühel, and on the other side of the mountains, the hiker's bus "Kaiserjet" runs between the villages of Söll, Scheffau, Ellmau and Going, linking the villages and the bottom of the mountain lifts, meaning you can use a combination of lifts, buses and panoramic mountain walking routes to have a wonderful adventurous day out.

Join Inghams guided walks in Kitzbühel 

There are two full-day walks per week in Kitzbühel, just for Inghams guests and when you stay in Westendorf it's easy for you to join. Join a small group and be led by a professional walking guide on some of their favourite trails. It’s a great way to get to know the area. The walks in Kitzbühel are run by David Hechl.

In Summer 25, they're available from 26 May - 12 Sep. Walks will run on Mondays and either Thursdays or Fridays - please see the dates by the walk descriptions below. You can add the walks onto your holiday at the time of booking, through My Booking or by giving us a call.

Please note: the walks all take place in or around Kitzbühel, and you'll need to make your own way to and from the starting point (usually by train), which will be advised by your overseas representative.  

Bichlach Circular

A beautiful, low-level circular route through a hilly, forested area that was heavily influenced by the Ice Age. Pass pretty, traditional farmhouses and meadows, and enjoy stunning views of the local area. At the end, there's the option for a dip in the picturesque Schwarzsee lake - the warmest swimming lake in the area.

• Grade: easy - moderate (basic fitness required)
• Distance: 15km
• Walking time: approx. 5 hours
• Ascent/Descent: 480m
• Terrain: Asphalt, dirt tracks, natural trails
• Useful information: There will be a lunch stop at the Tischlerwirt (payable locally)

In Summer 25, this walk will run on: 26 May, 16 Jun, 7 Jul, 28 Jul, 18 Aug and 8 Sep

Wildalm Circular

Enjoy beautiful views on this circular walk - an ascent of the more pleasant kind, weaves up from the valley offering spectacular views over the Achental. At the top, you're rewarded with the Wildalm Hut where you'll stop for refreshments with an impressive mountain backdrop.

• Grade: moderate - challenging (basic fitness and sure-footedness required)
• Distance: 10.2km
• Walking time: approx. 5.5 hours
• Ascent/Descent: 660m
• Terrain: Forest tracks, natural trails
• Useful information: This walk requires a local taxi which is approx. €10pp each way. There will be a lunch stop at the Wildalm Hut (payable locally)

In Summer 25, this walk will run on: 30 May, 20 Jun, 10 Jul, 1 Aug, 21 Aug, 12 Sep

Rauher Kopf

Summit-baggers will love this walk. It starts in Kirchberg and heads up mainly through the shady forest then along the ridge to the peak of the Rauher Kopf - the view from here is really special. After a summit break, it's on to the Ruetzen snack station for refreshments and then down to the pretty town of Kirchberg for a train back.

• Grade: moderate - challenging (basic fitness and sure-footedness required)
• Distance: 11.5km
• Walking time: approx. 5.5 hours
• Ascent/Descent: 530m ascent and 750m descent
• Terrain: Forest tracks, natural trails
• Useful information: This walk requires a local taxi which is approx. €10pp and a local train which is approx. €2.70pp. There is a lunch stop at the Ruetzen snack station (payable locally)

In Summer 25, this walk will run on: 6 Jun, 27 Jun, 18 Jul, 8 Aug, 29 Aug

Chapel Walk

The name gives the game away on this walk - you'll pass five picturesque chapels - but it's also a scenic walk for the non-believers. Weaving along the valley, in and out of the forest, it's an enjoyable walk that can be shortened at any time by taxi if necessary. Of course, there'll be a refreshment stop on route too, at the pretty Hallerwirt and the final highlight is the Schleier waterfall.

• Grade: easy - moderate (basic fitness required)
• Distance: 15km
• Walking time: approx. 5.5 hours
• Ascent/Descent: 570m ascent and 750m descent
• Terrain: Forest tracks, natural trails
• Useful information: This walk requires a local bus which is payable locally. There will be a lunch stop at the Hallerwirt (payable locally)

In Summer 25, this walk will run on: 2 Jun, 23 Jun, 14 Jul, 4 Aug, 25 Aug

Explore the famous Kitzbühler Horn

First the Hornbahn lift does the brunt of the uphill leg-work and you're rewarded with spectacular views right from the start. You follow the scenic Gams Trail to the Lämmerbichlalm where there's chance for a tea break before a beautiful climb up towards the Hochetzkogel for a panoramic view. The Bichlalm Hut offers lunch in the dreamiest setting and then you descend to Sonnbergstube (you can shorten the descent by taking the chairlift part way) and then you'll get a taxi back to Kitzbühel.

• Grade: moderate - challenging (good fitness and sure-footedness required)
• Distance: 11.5km
• Walking time: approx. 5 hours
• Ascent/Descent: 380m ascent and 880m descent
• Terrain: Forest tracks, natural trails
• Useful information: This walk requires ascent by gondola (payable locally - approx. €24.50pp or €29.50pp for a combined ticket with the optional chairlift) and return by taxi (payable locally - approx. €8pp). There will be a stop for a tea break and lunch which are both payable locally

In Summer 25, this walk will run on: 13 Jun, 4 Jul, 25 Jul, 15 Aug, 5 Sep

Seidlalm Circular

Experience summer on the iconic Streif - one of the most challenging downhill ski runs on the World Cup Ski Calendar. On this walk, you'll enjoy some beautiful views over Kitzbühel towards the Wilder Kaiser mountains, as well as seeing some of the famous sections of the ski run including the finishing jump. You'll pass some picturesque traditional farms along the way too, and lunch is at the Siedlalm which offers spectacular views.

• Grade: moderate (basic fitness and sure-footedness required)
• Distance: 9.5km
• Walking time: approx. 5 hours
• Ascent/Descent: 625m
• Terrain: Forest tracks, natural trails
• Useful information: There will be a stop at the Siedlalm (lunch not included)

In Summer 25, this walk will run on: 10 Jun, 30 Jun, 21 Jul, 11 Aug, 1 Sep

For every walk you will need: suitable walking shoes/boots with good grip, appropriate walking clothing, sun cream, insect repellent, sunglasses, rain jacket, a warmer layer, rucksack, at least a litre of water, a snack, cash for mountain huts/transport. You may find walking poles useful.

Early booking is strongly recommended as spaces are limited. All walks are subject to availability of local guides, weather conditions and maximum numbers. Planned routes are subject to change. Any distances and ascents/descents stated are approximate. Full details of the walks with the meeting points and routes will be provided to you on arrival. In some instances there may be a small charge for local transport that is payable locally. In resorts where the walks run over more than two days, the day of the walk will be allocated to you by your Rep in your welcome meeting. Where we cannot confirm your preferred option in resort, we will endeavour to offer an alternative subject to the above conditions.

Please ensure you are comfortable with the grade of walk, planned distance covered and terrain before booking. The decision of the guide on the suitability of the walk for you is final and no compensation will be paid where the guide believes, in their professional opinion, that it is not suitable. Please ensure you are well-equipped for the walk have suitable clothing and footwear. Walks are not recommended for guests under 12 years. Any guests under 18 years will need to be accompanied by an adult.

The Waterfall Way

• Moderate walk
• Approx. 8km
• Expect to take around two and a half hours

From the top of the Alpenrosen cable car, this idyllic route through forests and meadows, passes several small waterfalls and a beautiful old chapel. Cross little wooden bridges and enjoy the views along the way - you can also stop for some lunch at the Gasthaus Maierhof before a short climb takes you to the mid-station of the cable car to ride back down to Westendorf.

Kreuzjöchlsee Trail

• Moderate walk
• Approx. 12km
• Expect to take around four to five hours

The Kreuzjöchlsee is a picturesque mountain lake surrounded by lush Alpine pastures and it's a lovely circular walk from the top of the Alpenrosenbahn cable car. You can see for miles on this route and will enjoy panoramic views of the Hohe Tauern, Kitzbühel Alps and Zillertal Alps.

Alpinolino Trail

• Easy, family-friendly walk
• Approx. 2km
• Expect to take around 30 minutes to an hour

Get up into the mountains with the whole family and explore the 14 different stations that provide information on the local mountains, animals and plants. Make sure you get a souvenir photo at the photo station too.

Three-summit walk

• Moderate walk
• Approx. 12km
• Expect to take around five and a half hours

The Himmelsteig translates to "the path to the sky" and that's where you're headed on this beautiful walk. Another route that starts at the top of the Alpenrosenbahn cable car, this route ticks off the Guggenkogel, Fleiding and Gampenkogel summits, followed by the pretty Kreuzjöchlsee mountain lake.

Recommended equipment

Comfy walking boots, sun cream, insect repellent, waterproofs, rucksacks and walking poles are useful for hiking around Westendorf and the wider area. There are several places in Westendorf to buy walking equipment or the Vitalhotel Schermer offers guests staying there rucksacks and umbrellas to borrow.

Walking maps

We recommend Mayr Map 456 for the Westendorf and the Brixental, which have a scale of 1:25,000. The maps show the walking routes which are numbered and match the yellow signposts around the area. They will have a key which will help you understand the nature of the hiking trail before you set out on your walk.

Walking guidelines

The mountains are a natural paradise, with lots to explore and discover. To help it stay that way, and remain an enjoyable and safe place for everyone, we recommend following our little list of do's and don'ts:

• Plan your route well and don't overestimate yourself
• Check the weather forecast
• Tell someone where you're planning to walk and what time you're expecting to be back
• Take all the recommended equipment
• Make a note of emergency numbers:
  • Austrian Emergency Services: 112
  • Mountain Rescue: 140
• Don't leave the marked trails or go onto a glacier without a guide
• Let nature stay wild by not picking alpine flowers (it's illegal in some places) or getting close to/making contact with wild animals
• Always leave gates as you found them
• Leave no trace

Your Guest Card will be given to you on arrival at your hotel.

The guest card gives you free travel on local buses and trains (between Wörgl and Hochfilzen), plus discounts on cable cars and a variety of bonus partners, so keep it with you as you explore the area.

Subject to change.

Mountain Experience Card - buy locally | from €94.00 - 6 days | from €69.00 - 3 days | please present your guest card for a reduced rate. 

Consecutive days only. Other durations are available.

Includes up to 14 lifts in the Wilder Kaiser - Brixental region plus discounts on various bonus partners throughout the area.

• Alpenrosenbahn 1 and 2 in Westendorf (normally open from 18 May)
• Hochbrixen and Zinsbergbahn in Brixen (normally open from 18 May)
• Salvenbahn 1 and 2 in Hopfgarten (normally open from 18 May)
• Hochsöll, Hohe Salve and Keat in Söll (normally open from 9 May)
• Hartkaiserbahn in Ellmau (normally open from 9 May)
• Astbergbahn in Going (normally open from 8 Jun)
• Brandstadlbahn in Scheffau (normally open from 18 May)
• Kaiserlift in Kufstein (normally open from beginning May)
• Salvistabahn in Itter (limited opening days throughout the season)

Kitzbühel Alps Summer Card - buy locally | from €103.50 - 6 days | from €76.00 - 3 days | please present your guest card for a reduced rate.

Consecutive days only. Other durations are available.

Includes up to 38 lifts in the Kitzbühel Alps region plus discounts on various bonus partners throughout the area, so is ideal for people staying longer durations or wanting to explore further afield.

The lifts included are the 15 listed above, plus operating lifts in Kitzbühel, St Johann, Wildschönau, Alpbachtal, Fieberbrunn, Steinplatte Waidring, Pillersee and Lofer.

Lift pass inclusions, prices and lift opening times are subject to change.

Things to do in Westendorf

Over 250km of walking paths

Gentle paths and green grassy slopes surround the village of Westendorf. Put your walking boots on and ease yourself into the mountain scenery and even-terrain with pretty valley walks before venturing further into the Kitzbüheler Alps, where even more trails and marked routes lead to summit crosses and picturesque mountain lakes. Whether you're a leisurely stroller or keen peak-bagger - there's trails to suit every kind of walker in Westendorf.

Cycling in Westendorf

Take your mountain bike up in one of the cable cars after planning your very own bike tour with the online interactive map. Maybe you prefer something more leisurely? Then a ride to Kitzbühel is just right for you; a lovely one-hour bike ride via Lake Schwarzsee. E-Bikes are available to rent locally too if you want a little assistance on the uphill.

Cafés and shops

Stroll through the village at your own pace and browse the shops and handcrafted souvenirs. Spend an afternoon indulging in some traditional food, or taking in the fresh mountain air in on a café terrace surrounded by flower baskets and timeless wooden buildings - a perfect finish to a morning of walking.

Exploring the area

Being part of the Kitzbüheler Alps, Westendorf has many places to go and activities to do nearby. You can visit the Schnapps distillery in St. Johann, local cheesemaking farms and even a 100-year-old farmhouse. The superb network of public transport, chairlifts and gondolas all make your time in the region a whole lot easier - it's easy to head a little further afield on the train too so why not enjoy a day out in Munich.

Top-location Golfing

Golf course Westendorf is the youngest course in the region, covering a total distance of 5,882 metres. This easily walkable course has 18 holes over 64 hectares of well-groomed alpine landscape. Featuring unforgettable views and amazing facilities, you can enjoy a full course game, or just visit the driving range for a quick practise. Did you know you can find an original red British phone booth in the middle of the course?

Festivals and events

Westendorf has lots of brilliant events and a weekly programme that means a holiday in the Kitzbüheler Alps is something quite special indeed. Make the most of the opportunity to enjoy local traditions below:

• Weekly brass band concerts from June
• Weekly market in July
• Weekly Tyrolean evenings (High season)
• Regular live music at hotels
• Annual Dorf Fest Village festival/carnival (August)

Family activities in Westendorf

Alpinolino Westendorf

Its all about fun and adventure at the Alpinolino Westendorf, an alpine explorer park on the adventurous terrain of the Talkaser mountain. Kids can go on a discovery mission with a choice between various themed trails (Himmelsteig, Holzwurmweg and Adlerhorst) and a wide selection of puzzles along the way - they will burn some energy in no time.

Alpinolino children's festival

Take part in a range of events and games at the Alpinolino festival, including face painting, tug-of-war, arts and crafts, sack races, and even competitions. It's great fun for the whole family but will be especially loved by the younger ones. The festival runs every Monday, from 10:30am to 2pm, during July and August.

Refreshing pools and mountain lakes

Visit the outdoor swimming pool in Westendorf for a dip - there's a children's pool and slide, plus plenty of lawn space to relax. Or, mix it up and visit Brixen outdoor pool where children can paddle, jump and slide into the pool. It's on the Brixental bike path so is easily accessible from Westendorf and there's also a spacious lawn and small kiosk. Even better, head up the mountain on the Brixen lift and discover the Filzalmsee lake, with various play areas to enjoy on the shore and views for miles - can you find the giant that lurks in the lake?

Nearby attractions

Take a day trip to Kitzbühel, Ellmau or Söll where you will find plenty of other family attractions like mountain playgrounds, fun parks and larger lakes full of optional activities to keep the little ones entertained. 

Pre-book your excursions online or give us a call

Berchtesgaden from £48/30 per adult/child (full day)

There's a few options for you to choose from on this interesting trip to Berchtesgaden. Spend the day discovering the pretty Bavarian town of Berchtesgaden itself, or choose one of the optional extras that you can add on to your day (difference payable locally).

The most famous is the Kehlsteinhaus (Eagle's Nest). Explore the historic building and surrounding area, with spectacular views on a clear day over the King's Lake. The house is famous for being Nazi-constructed and was used for government and social meetings by Hitler and the Nazi Party. Alternatively, head underground to see the Salt Mines. A network of tunnels and slides take you on an underground adventure discovering this once very important industry (optional add-ons are payable locally - Eagle's Nest approx. €30.80 per person, Salt Mines approx. €22.50 per person).

Departs: Tuesdays

Grossglockner from £54/36 per adult/child (full day)

This spectacular journey takes you over the Grossglockner High Alpine Road, an incredible feat of engineering with stunning views. From the Franz-Josef's Höhe you'll see the Pasterze glacier and maybe catch a glimpse of 3,798-metre summit of the Grossglockner. Keep a look out for the wild marmots and Ibex too - they love the high alpine conditions. You can visit the free museums and exhibitions to learn about the National Park or enjoy a walk round the area and a tasty Austrian mountain meal.

Departs: Thursdays

Salzburg from £42/26 per adult/child (full day)

Salzburg is a city full of culture, history and music. Visit Mozart’s birthplace, enjoy the view from the Hohensalzburg Fortress, or wander the famous Getreidegasse shopping street. Immerse yourself in history as you explore the medieval Old Town, discover museums and Baroque churches or visit the Salzburg Residenz Palace - the DomQuartier. There is an optional guided walking tour which is a great way to see more of the city (payable locally, approx. €12 per person).

Departs: Fridays

Bookable Locally

Hidden Treasures from approx. €45/25 per adult/child

Discover some of the area's best kept secrets on this trip which combines three unique destinations. Our first 'treasure' is Kufstein, located on the banks of the River Inn. You'll have time to explore and admire this border town with its dominating Fortress. Next, you're off to the beautiful local Hechtsee lake, surrounded by forests and steeped in folklore. Our final destination is Rattenberg, rich in history and famous for Kisslinger glass - watch a glass-blowing demonstration and explore the picturesque streets of this tiny city.

Departs: Wednesdays

We act at all times as a selling agent for the suppliers. All excursions require minimum numbers to run and are subject to change. Some excursions may not be available to pre-book in low season but may be available to book locally subject to numbers. Prices will be confirmed at the time of booking. Please see our terms & conditions.