Information & interesting facts

Short description:

This trail opens up the natural jewel of the valley with its magnificent mountain panoramas and the romantic lake.

Technique: ***
Quality of experience: ******

Recommended season:
  • January
  • February
  • March
  • April
  • December
Properties:
  • Loop
  • Refreshment stops available
  • Family friendly
  • Faunistic highlights
Description:

On the trail directly into the heart of the Tannheimer Tal. Enjoy a magnificent mountain landscape on the way to Vilsalpsee. Since the area around Vilsalpsee has been designated a nature reserve for over 50 years and is simultaneously a Natura 2000 area, this trail offers particularly charming features.


Tyrolean Trail Quality Seal


For two decades, the Tyrolean state government has awarded the Tyrolean Trail Quality Seal to operators of trails who meet certain requirements.


The Tannheimer Tal is a "cross-country skiing paradise." This is not only recognized by the ADAC Ski Guide 2008, which nominated the region as one of the top 10 ski areas in the Nordic/cross-country category, but also by the state of Tyrol which awarded the "Trail Quality Seal of the State of Tyrol." This is valid for three years, and criteria such as the number of trails, grooming, orientation, or signage are regularly checked.


With a 140-kilometer-long network of trails and a maximum altitude difference of 50 meters, the Tannheimer Tal offers optimal cross-country skiing conditions. The routes are suitable both for classic style and skating and offer suitable challenges for cross-country skiers of all skill levels.

Directions:

We start at the building of the Tannheim Tourism Association and follow the southbound trail along the eastern edge of the village. After crossing several streets, we enter the outer meadows of the valley before reaching the Schmieden district. After the houses, we follow the trail first through meadow terrain, then through a wooded section, and then come close to Vilsalpstraße. Via a long ascent, we reach the upper valley level and cross the forest around the Gappenfeldbach. On the rolling trail, we reach the northern edge of the Vilsalpsee meadows. We are now in the middle of the nature reserve and can walk the meadow areas above the lake on a wide loop. Along the way, we always have the magnificent panorama of the mountain range together with the valley basin of the frozen Vilsalpsee before us.

At the inns at Vilsalpsee, we can stop for refreshments before starting the return trip to Tannheim on the now downhill trail. This mainly runs along the western valley edge, crosses Vilsalpstraße, and turns west towards Kienzen. With a lively descent, we reach the meadows in front of the building of the Tannheim Tourism Association and can finish the round here. Alternatively, you can choose a ride, either the Alpenexpress or the horse-drawn carriages.

Tip:

A stop at the Vilsalpsee Restaurant or the Fischerstube is definitely worthwhile.

Safety guidelines:

Observe the FIS behavioral rules for cross-country skiers!


Confident handling of the equipment even in poor snow conditions and good fitness are basic requirements for cross-country skiing.
Choosing the right speed - adapted to skiing skills and fatigue level - greatly reduces the risk of accidents and injuries.


Stay on the route: All tours described here lead on groomed trails. Do not leave the route.


The Tannheimer Tal trail map facilitates your tour planning, shows distances, and makes it easier to estimate travel time.


Equipment:
Modern and well-maintained equipment (ski, binding, boot, poles, and clothing) not only provides a significant degree of safety but also greatly facilitates cross-country skiing. Sun protection (high protection factor and possibly sunglasses) as well as sufficient fluids should not be forgotten.Additional information:

Tannheimer Tal Tourist Association


Vilsalpsee Nature Reserve

Starting point: Tourism info Tannheim, 1099 meters above sea level
Destination: Tourism info Tannheim, 1099 meters above sea level
Getting there
On the A7 motorway at the "Oy-Mittelberg" exit onto the B310 towards Wertach and then Oberjoch. Follow the sign "Tannheimer Tal" B199, exit Tannheim.
From the Tyrol side via Reutte on the B198 towards Lechtal to Weißenbach, over the Gaicht Pass along the B199 to the exit Tannheim.
Public Transit
By train to Sonthofen, Pfronten/Ried or Reutte, then by bus to Tannheim.
Parking
Lift parking lot in Tannheim - paid
Favorable season
Spring
High winter

Vilsalpsee loop trail
Informationsbüro Tannheim
Vilsalpseestraße 1
6675 Tannheim