If you’re looking for a winter walk that really takes you into the mountains, then this is the hike for you!
The hike starts at the mid-station of the Patscherkofelbahn cable car. Exit the station and cross the piste, following the signs for the Patscher Alm. Take the path up behind the alm and follow its endless curves gently up the mountain, enjoying the breathtaking views as you walk.
Eventually, you will come out of the forest and rejoin the top of the cable car. All that’s left to do is to tuck into some hearty Tyrolean food in either the modern Das Kofel restaurant or the rustic Schutzhaus, before taking the lift back down to the valley.
But be careful! Depending on the snow conditions, the Vitalweg may only be accessible with snowshoes. It is best to check with the staff at the bottom of the lift before heading up. If you do need snowshoes, these can be rented at the Intersport hire shop at the bottom station and are easy to use, even if you’ve never done it before.
Start: Patscherkofel cable car (take the J bus to Patscherkofel)
Duration: 90 minutes (longer if snowshoes are required)
Change of altitude: 250m
Difficulty: Medium
Full Route Information