Skiing Is Just the Start: Explore a Winter Wonderland with Peaks, Igloos and Even Llamas in the Innsbruck Region

Last updated on 09.12.2025

In wintertime, the Innsbruck region is probably best known for its superb skiing experiences and perfect pistes as far as the eye can see. But away from the slopes, this area has so much more to offer in the colder season – including relaxed rambles through the snow-covered landscape, unforgettable nights sleeping under ice, and wonderful walks with some fluffy companions.

Winter magic that goes on for miles: explore the Sellraintal Valley on snowshoes

When fresh snowfall transforms the Sellraintal Valley into a winter wonderland, it’s the perfect place to slow down and clear your mind on a long and leisurely snowshoe walk. The valley offers routes for everyone – whether you want a gentle wander through snowy woodland or a more adventurous ascent to breathtaking heights (and views!). With every step you take through the crunching snow, past ice-tipped spruces and with majestic mountains always in sight, the stress of everyday life drifts further and further into the distance. And you can even reward yourself with some home-made treats at one of the charmingly rustic mountain inns.

Whiz your way down the mountainside: try out the local toboggan runs

Covering eight kilometres over three sections on its meandering descent down to the valley, the Rangger Köpfl toboggan run is one of the longest and most varied in the region. It is easy to reach by cable car and offers fun-filled toboggan rides for people of all ages and abilities – whether you are seriously sporty or just out to enjoy yourself. Kühtai also offers high-speed thrills at high altitude: Tyrol’s highest toboggan run starts from 2,020 metres above sea level at the Graf-Ferdinand-Haus lodge, where you can fuel up and gather your strength in cosy surroundings. Both of these runs are also lit, so – depending on the snow conditions – you can enjoy the unforgettable experience of tobogganing after dark twice a week on the Rangger Köpfl and even every day in Kühtai.

Soak up the sun and the alpine air: take relaxation to new heights on the Seegrube

Up on the Seegrube, you can really see what makes this region so special: in less than 30 minutes, you can get from the centre of Innsbruck to 1,905 metres above sea level, where a breathtaking view of the city’s alpine-meets-urban scenery awaits you. Being up here feels like you’re floating on cloud nine – literally, if you stop to sip a cool drink on one of the loungers at the Cloud 9 bar with its amazing sun terrace. And if you like, you can take the cable car right up to the “top of Innsbruck” at Hafelekar – perched at an altitude of 2,334 metres – to watch the winter sun casting its warm glow over the glistening peaks.

Sleep under a canopy of ice: spend the night in Kühtai’s igloo village

In Kühtai, around 2,000 metres up in the mountains, you will find a truly extraordinary hotel: the Iglu-Dorf, a “village” made up of over 25 hand-built igloos, complete with a restaurant, bar and sauna. Guests can enjoy a walk or snowshoe hike under a starlit sky (if the weather cooperates), a hearty cheese fondue and a night nestled in sleeping bags on top of thick fur. There is even an outdoor jacuzzi for the ultimate way to unwind in this authentic alpine setting.

Follow in the footsteps of animals: go llama trekking on the Mieming Plateau

Up on the picturesque Mieming Plateau, there is no better or more relaxing way to connect with nature than by going on a leisurely llama trek in Obsteig, where your gentle – and adorable – four-legged companion will set the pace. Adults and children alike will fall in love with these charmingly curious guides as they lead you through wintry forests and meadows, giving you the chance to forget about everyday life for a while.

Get your skates on and off you go: glide across the ice in Telfs

One of the best ways to make the most of the winter chill is by heading to the ice rink in the town of Telfs in the Inntal valley. Here, visitors of all ages are welcome to slip on a pair of skates and take a spin around the ice. This state-of-the-art facility is ideal for both beginners and seasoned skaters, guaranteeing plenty of fun and a great way to spend an afternoon even when the weather is bad.

Tip: Head up to the peaks and down to the streets with the Welcome Card

If you want to split your stay between urban Innsbruck and its alpine surroundings and enjoy the best of both worlds, then the Welcome Card is just the thing for you. This card is available to visitors staying two nights or more at one of Innsbruck Tourismus’ partner establishments. In addition to discounts on a wide range of attractions, it also offers opportunities to take part in our local winter activity programme off the pistes – including free guided winter hikes, cross-country skiing, and snowshoe walks with experienced guides.

About the Innsbruck region

The Innsbruck region is unique in its symbiosis of vibrant urbane space and captivating alpine landscape. It covers both Innsbruck itself – the capital of Tyrol – and over 40 locations in the surrounding area, with six distinct tourist regions: the city, the Inntal valley, Kühtai-Sellraintal, the Mieming Plateau and the south and west regions. Innsbruck offers all the sights and sophistication of a thriving city, yet sporting thrills and opportunities to conquer your next peak are never very far away. The free Welcome Card offers guests the chance to experience the region in all its diversity, with access to various attractions and free use of local public transport. The official destination management organisation for the Innsbruck region is Innsbruck Tourismus. Its 100 or so employees and eleven tourist information offices are on hand to help you enjoy unforgettable holiday experiences in true harmony with our local communities and natural surroundings.

Further links
Website: www.innsbruck.info/en/ 
Blog: www.innsbruck.info/blog/en/
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