Otztal Attractions

The Ötztal, through which flows the Ötztaler Ache, is the longest lateral valley (55km/34mi) on the southern bank of the upper Inn, extending up into the Ötztal Alps. The mouth of the valley, at Ötz, is wide and fertile; then, halfway up, it narrows into a succession of gorges alternating with expanses of meadowland. The road climbs southward in a series of "steps", passing many waterfalls and affording impressive views of the Alpine peaks and glaciers. The villages in the Ötztal are excellent bases for walks and climbs in the surrounding mountains, and they are increasingly developing also into winter sports resorts. From the head of the valley the Timmelsjoch Road, which is open for only a few months in the year, crosses the pass into Italy.