Tourist attractions in Tyrol: Innsbruck & the Alpenzoo

Tourist attractions in Tyrol include several natural highlights; we would like to mention two in particular: the Timmelsjoch and the Ötztal glacier road. The 2,509 m high Timmelsjoch, the mountain pass also known as the gateway to the south, is the direct route that leads from Sölden, in Austria, to Merano/Meran in South Tyrol, Italy. From mid-June to October the yoke is open to traffic in the daytime and offers the chance to observe the transition from the typical Alpine climate of Austria to the decidedly more Mediterranean temperatures of South Tyrol. The route offers several points to stop and admire the beautiful views. It so happens that you can have a Kaiserschmarren for breakfast in Tyrol and a pizza for dinner in Merano/Meran. Unsurprisingly, the Timmelsjoch is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Tyrol!

The 15 km long Ötztal glacier road leads from our hotel in Austria to the glacier ski areas of the Rettenbach- and Tiefenbach glacier, at about 2,800 m. 

Along the way you will be rewarded with spectacular views over the eastern Alps. Once at the top, it goes through the highest road tunnel in the Alps, which stretches over 1.7 km to connect the two glacier ski areas.

“All that glitters is not gold” … it can be silver, or crystal, instead! Among Tyrol’s top tourist attractions there are two sparkly destinations: the silver mine in Schwaz and the Swarovski Crystal Worlds in Wattens. 

Since their opening in 1995, the Swarovski Crystal Worlds have been charming millions of visitors: Entrancing crystals, beautiful gardens and of course the famous Swarovski giant add up to a memorable experience for the young and old. The 16 Chambers of Wonder inside the giant contain the personal interpretations of crystal offered by Austrian and international artists, designers and architects. Contemporary art and ancient history hold hands in the 7.5-hectare garden, creating an evocative atmosphere as unique and faceted as only crystal can be. In addition, a play tower and a playground are there for children to play while their parents are temporarily ensnared by the magic of crystal.

The silver mine in Schwaz is a time-travel into the depths of the Earth, and of course one of the most sought-after tourist attractions here in Tyrol. 500 years ago, the town of Schwaz was home to more than 10,000 silver- and copper miners. The mine’ 800 m deep tunnels can be explored by foot and mine train, and offer an interesting insight into the world of mining. The silver mine in Schwaz is especially popular among children. 

To learn more about these and other tourist attractions in Tyrol, feel free to contact our reception at any time; we will be delighted to help you plan exciting trips to the most interesting destinations around our hotel in the Alps!