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EXPLORE TIROL THROUGH SKIING, CULTURE, AND CUISINE

Written by Julia 14 July 2025

Last modified on 18 July 2025
Pertisau village Pertisau village

The Austrian Tirol Explorer offers a unique opportunity to experience the region through a carefully crafted cross-country skiing itinerary that blends physical activity with cultural depth and culinary enjoyment. Set against the dramatic backdrop of the Alps, this trip takes in the quiet beauty of winter landscapes, the rich heritage of Tyrolean mountain communities, and the warm hospitality for which the region is known. 

Each day is designed to combine scenic skiing routes with moments of cultural discovery - whether through traditional alpine architecture, conversations with local craftspeople, or meals in rustic mountain huts serving regional specialities. The journey includes use of the region’s free ski bus network and is supported by experienced ski guides, providing insight into local history, trail conditions, and mountain life.

Authentic Mountain Gastronomy

Culinary experiences play an integral role in this journey through Tirol. Daily meals are enjoyed in family-run restaurants and welcoming alpine huts, offering hearty and traditional fare crafted from seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. Guests can expect dishes such as Tiroler Gröstl (a rustic pan-fried potato and meat dish), warming Knödel dumplings, rich soups, and sweet Kaiserschmarrn pancakes. These meals offer more than sustenance - they are part of Tirol’s cultural identity, served in settings that encourage connection and reflection after a day on the snow.

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Pertisau
Participants arrive in the lakeside village of Pertisau, nestled between Lake Achensee and the Karwendel mountains. Upon arrival, guests are welcomed at the hotel by their Nordic Ski Instructor. The group gathers for a welcome dinner, where plans for the week are shared and the journey ahead begins to take shape.

Day 2: Stadium Warm-Up and Falzthurn-Gramai Loop
The day begins with an introductory ski session at the Pertisau Nordic Centre. After warming up and refining basic techniques, the group skis into the peaceful Falzthurn-Gramai Valley. This scenic route traces a gently rising track flanked by snow-laden forests and dramatic rock faces. The trail culminates at the Gramai Alm hut, a traditional mountain restaurant set at the head of the valley, where guests enjoy a warm lunch and local hospitality. Distance: 16 km | Ascent: 285 m

Day 3: Achenkirch to Steinberg am Rofan
Today, the group travels north to Achenkirch to ski the Unterautal Valley and the stunning Guffert Trail. The tracks wind through quiet woodland and expansive meadows, gradually climbing toward the remote hamlet of Steinberg am Rofan. This is a day of immersion in nature - minimal development, wide snowy views, and the soothing rhythm of skis gliding through soft powder. Distance: 20 km | Ascent: 350 m

Day 4: Karwendel Valleys and Alpine Meadows
Returning to the Karwendel side of Pertisau, skiers explore the lesser-known valleys that extend toward the German border. The Pletzach-Gern route follows icy brooks, past alpine meadows and through stands of spruce and pine. Lunch is enjoyed at the Gernalm hut. In the afternoon, guests may choose to ski further into Falzthurntal or the more demanding Tristenau Valley for those seeking added challenge and vertical gain. Distance: 19.7 km | Ascent: 410 m

A classic Germknödel as dessert 

Day 5: Seefeld Plateau and Leutasch Valley
After breakfast, the group transfers to Seefeld, one of Europe’s premier cross-country destinations. The high-altitude plateau offers a vast network of interconnected trails. Today’s route explores the Leutasch Valley, winding alongside a lively stream and through sunlit pine groves. The day includes lunch in Gasthof Mühle before looping back toward Weidach and returning to Seefeld. Distance: 16 km | Undulating terrain

Day 6: Bodenalm Trail to Scharnitz
The quieter Bodenalm Trail leads east toward the village of Scharnitz. With fewer skiers, this route provides an intimate experience of the winter landscape, following the Giessenbach stream and opening into sweeping alpine views. After lunch in Scharnitz, guests can choose to continue skiing or return by local bus. Distance: 11 km | Undulating terrain

Day 7: Wildmoos Loop
A fitting finale to the week, the Wildmoos Loop is a classic Seefeld route that combines variety and beauty. The track climbs through deep forest, skims across snow-covered fields, and passes frozen lakes, all beneath towering Alpine peaks. A final descent into Seefeld village brings the journey full circle, offering spectacular views and a celebratory sense of accomplishment. Distance: 17.3 km | Ascent: 324 m

Winter Church in Seefeld

Day 8: Departure

After breakfast, guests depart at their own pace, enriched by a week of cross-country skiing, cultural encounters, and immersion in the alpine serenity of Tirol.

 

On the Tirol Explorer you inevitably to slow down and connect with the rhythm of alpine life. With peaceful trails, rich traditions, and warm hospitality, this journey offers a meaningful winter experience far removed from the usual resort holiday.

Combining physical challenge with cultural immersion and scenic reward, it's ideal for travellers seeking movement, mountain beauty, and deeper connection with place.

Discover the full Tirol Explorer itinerary and join the adventure.

 

Keep up to date with Tracks and Trails through our newsletter, click here to sign up. For more information about our adventure holidays, either bespoke or Scheduled Departures, speak to one of our expert team by calling +44 1663 434468  or email info@tracks-and-trails.com 

In winter, we offer snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, while in summer we would encourage you to join us for hiking, and trail running.