The 9 Treasures of Lake Piburger See

On the Edge of an Abyss

If you are looking for peace and silence away from the busy tourist destinations, Seejöchl makes the perfect spot. Up here the world is still a paradise! After a couple of fairly steep ascents towards the viewing platform towering above lake Piburger See, hikers are rewarded with fabulous views of the lake and the majestic mountains in the background. Observe the lively activities some 150 Meter further down from a bird's eye perspective. Cozy seating facilities on the platform are ideal for a short break. Hikers, mountain bikers and E-bikers share the same trail. However, the last few meters towards the platform can only be covered on foot.

Depending from which direction you are approaching Seejöchl, the ascent can be quite strenuous. The easiest way to reach the vista point is from the hamlet of Piburg or the hamlet of Haderlehn. Other trails start directly from the southwestern shore of the lake or from Oetz via Kohlstatt.

• Starting point: Piburg car park (A) (chargeable parking)
• Walking time (both ways): Piburg loop walk – Seejöchl – Lake Piburger See – Piburg approx. 2 h
• Difficulty level: intermediate
• Altitude difference: 150 Meter

Overlooking Scenic Oetz

As the name implies, this vantage point nestles on the mountain slope. The huge ledge slightly protrudes from the forest and provides dreamlike views of Oetz and its surroundings. Although you look at the village from above you are fully enraptured by the hustle and bustle down in the center. Inevitably you also enjoy the scenic view of the church on the opposite side of the valley in an elevated location. Many trails lead to the Kanzel vista point, the easiest way to reach it is from a turnoff on Piburg's federal road.

• Starting point: sports field/recycling site car park (B)
• Walking time (both ways): 1.5 h
• Difficulty level: intermediate
• Altitude difference: 125 Meter

Huge Mountain Clefts

During the last Ice Age the entire Ötztal was covered by a huge glacier. Later when the glaciers retreated and melted, the rock walls lost their counter pressure – resulting in truly gigantic rockslides. In some places there were also deep fissures in the mountains.

These jagged crevices, partly bridged by clamping bolts, still amaze hikers and bikers: they can be about 50 Meter long, 30 Meter deep and up to 3 Meter wide... dangerous crevices that are very well secured by larch fences now and can be easily admired thanks to two footbridges. Similar to Kanzel area, there are also varied hiking trails. The easiest way to reach the Kluft area is from a turnoff on Piburg's federal road.

• Starting point: sports field/recycling site car park (B)
• Walking time (both ways): 1.5 h
• Difficulty level: intermediate
• Altitude difference: 150 Meter

White Waters – Inner Peace

A place to recharge your batteries and let your thoughts wander. The rushing waters of Ötztaler Ache accompany hikers on the easy walking route along the riverbank and towards the edge of the forest. On the broad gravel trail you reach the lower viewing platform. Here you get a first impression of the elemental forces of water and the rockslides of many millennia ago. The wooden bridge fits perfectly into the forest area. Standing on the bridge you can feel and experience the truly overwhelming power of Alpine waters close up. Enjoy fine water spray on your face and listen to the roaring Ache mountain river.

The eye-catching course of the river is the result of a huge rockslide at the end of the last Ice Age. The original river was dammed up and the water had to find its own new path by forming also impressive rapids which are well-loved by passionate whitewater athletes.

• Starting point: Oetz central car park (C)
• Walking time (both ways): 1 h
• Difficulty level: easy – also suitable for prams up to the lower platform, later it rises more steeply
• Altitude difference: 15 Meter

Lake Exploration for All Ages

The small lake is idyllically situated on the edge of the forest at the village end of Habichen. An approximately 12 meter long footbridge leads into the lake. Cozy seating areas invite you to while away some hours. The gently sloping sandbar makes an ideal place for children to build sandcastles or sand pies. The forest provides pleasant shade in the warm summer months. Frogs, fish and newts frolic in the lake's water while in the evening many bats come out of the forest to quench their thirst in the lake.

In the immediate vicinity of lake Habicher See you will find the “Ice Cellar” which was used as a natural fridge until 1960. Inside the rock's fissures temperatures remain around 0° Celsius all year round as masses of cold air accumulate in these underground cavities.

• Starting point: small car park (D) after underpass in Habichen
• Walking time (both ways): 30 min
• Difficulty level: easy - barrier-free trail also suitable for prams
• Altitude difference: –

Explore Striking Nature

Not only in the picturesque area of lake Piburger See you can enjoy awe-inspiring views. The opposite part of the mountain is equally inviting. For example, just a few walking minutes above the KIDS PARK children‘s playground you will find the splendid Calvary Chapel. While the little explorers climb and romp around, you can indulge in the scenic tranquility under chestnut trees up there. Half an hour and 150 altitude meters later you reach the upper Ebele vista point. Simply let your eyes wander far beyond the roofs of the small hamlet of Habichen...

• Starting point: Oetz central car park (C)
• Walking time (both ways): 2.5 h
• Difficulty level: intermediate
• Altitude difference: 150 Meter

Getting a bit Scary

A witch is said to have wandered through this forest. It is proven by her unmistakable footprints that she left on one of the rocks. You probably can't blame a witch that she settled down in this beautiful landscape. The fabulous view of Oetz and neighboring Sautens almost takes away your breath. This spot has become particularly inviting since it was equipped with a magnificent viewing platform and seating facilities. The easy hike is suitable for all ages

• Starting point: Oetz central car park (C)
• Walking time (both ways): 1 h
• Difficulty level: easy
• Altitude difference: 150 Meter

Peaceful Spot with Meadow View

Right after the steep climb above Hotel Ritzlerhof you will find the gorgeous viewing platform. The cozy swinging lounger invites hikers to take a rest. Then you continue on a beautiful forest trail leading to the hamlet of Piburg. From there the path takes you to scenic lake Piburger See.

• Starting point: Sautens primary school
• Walking time (both ways): primary school – Ritzlerhof – Piburg – lake Piburger See: 1.5 h
• Difficulty level: intermediate
• Altitude difference: 350 Meter