Special place: The Almkopf

A panorama worthy of the name: the Almkopf in the Tiroler Zugspitz Arena is a place of wonder for many a hiker.

At a height of 1,802 metres, the Almkopf may not seem like a giant. But that’s only going by physical size – when it comes to the views from the top, it measures up very favourably with its neighbours in the Tiroler Zugspitz Arena. On top of that, the Almkopf is easily accessible for everyone, with no less than two mountain railways to take the strain: the Almkopfbahn from Bichlbach and the Sonnalmbahn from Berwang. Once you alight, it’s just a few minutes to the summit cross – and stunning panoramic views, most impressively of the mighty Wetterstein Mountain in the east. In snow, however, it’s not such a good idea to attempt an ascent – so much better to make full use of the autumn sun before it’s too late.

In good weather, hikers enjoy the gradual and easy ascent from the lower terminals of the mountain railways, which takes around one and a half hours from Berwang and two hours from Bichlbach. Along the way, you’re sure to marvel at the sight of the mountains increasingly standing proud from the landscape. Mountain bikers and users of the ‘mountain scooters’ that you can hire in the summer also enjoy the terrain and its well-maintained trails – not least because these two groups hardly ever get in each other’s way.

The three-kilometre summit walk on the Almkopf has its own special charm, particularly for those who prefer to take it easy: the walk covers just 200 metres of altitude difference. With each step, you proceed further into an undulating natural landscape and will encounter many different animals, all of whom feel right at home here. In summer, they especially include the cows and calves that are allowed to graze in the uplands during the warm season.

And you’re also guaranteed a snack with mountain views: the Heiterwanger Hochalm caters to all appetites, large or small, and is the ideal place to stop if you simply can’t get enough of the Almkopf’s beauty.