The region around the Wilder Kaiser - a natural idyll and sports mecca in the Alps

The Wilder Kaiser is one of the most impressive regions in the Alps and fascinates with its rugged rocky peaks, gentle alpine meadows, deep forests and crystal-clear mountain lakes. This unique landscape not only captivates nature lovers and sports enthusiasts, but also serves as the backdrop for numerous films and series, including the popular ZDF series The Mountain Doctor. The region impressively combines alpine beauty with an outstanding range of sports and leisure activities.

Whether summer or winter - the region offers countless opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. Hikers can explore the impressive natural surroundings on over 700 kilometres of marked trails, while climbers can put their skills to the test on the challenging rock faces of the Kaiser Mountains. Trail runners will find challenging routes such as the Kaisermarathon with 42 kilometres and 2,450 metres of altitude. Mountain bikers can look forward to an extensive network of trails and routes, including the Kitzbühel Alps Trail (KAT) bike route. Road cyclists can test themselves on the legendary Kitzbüheler Horn, one of the toughest climbs in Austria. In winter, the Wilder Kaiser is transformed into a fairytale snowy landscape with perfectly groomed pistes in the SkiWelt Wilder Kaiser-Brixental, one of the largest ski areas in the world. Ski tourers and cross-country skiers will find countless opportunities to experience the winter mountain world in all its splendour.

One of the most beautiful places in the region is Lake Hintersteiner See, a true natural gem at 882 metres above sea level. With its crystal-clear, turquoise-blue water and picturesque location in the midst of unspoilt nature, it is one of the cleanest mountain lakes in Tyrol. A hike around the lake always reveals new, fascinating perspectives. Especially in the early hours of the morning, when the majestic peaks of the Wilder Kaiser are reflected in the still water, the lake reveals its full magic.

Another highlight is the Schleier waterfall near Going, one of the most impressive waterfalls in Tyrol. The water plunges over a 60 metre high rock face into the depths, surrounded by a picturesque forest landscape. This place is a paradise for climbers, as some of the best climbing routes in the region can be found around the waterfall.

A special place of power can be found above Ellmau - the Ellmau stone circle. This mystical formation of boulders is said to concentrate particularly strong earth energies and offers a breathtaking view of the Kaiser Mountains. Perfect for a short meditation or simply to take a deep breath in the midst of the imposing mountain world.

If you want to experience the Wilder Kaiser from above, you should visit the Gruttenhütte. At 1,620 metres, it is the highest hut in the region and a popular destination for hikers and climbers. The ascent leads through impressive karst landscapes and rewards you with a magnificent panorama. There is also plenty to discover for fans of the series The Mountain Doctor. Filming locations such as the Gruberhof or the picturesque village square in Going allow visitors to immerse themselves in the world of the popular TV series.

The region not only offers sporting challenges, but also numerous opportunities for regeneration. Many hotels and alpine huts offer yoga retreats with a unique mountain panorama, while wellness programmes with panoramic saunas and natural bathing lakes invite you to relax. Culinary connoisseurs also get their money's worth: Traditional Alpine huts serve Tyrolean specialities such as Gröstl, Kaspressknödel and Kaiserschmarrn, while the region's gourmet restaurants serve sophisticated creations made from regional products.

Image rights: Kurt Tropper, Wilder Kaiser Tourist Board (© Stefan Leitner, © Mathäus Gartner,© Thomas Henerbichler, © Marcella Emmerhirt, © Emanuel Adensam, © Martin Raffeiner, © Felbert Reiter)