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Mayrhofen is a picturesque Alpine town nestled in the Zillertal Valley in the western Austrian state of Tyrol. The town combines traditional Tyrolean charm with modern tourist infrastructure. It covers an area of about 178.79 square kilometers (69.05 square miles) and is home to approximately 3,858 residents.
Situated at an elevation of 633 meters (2,077 feet) above sea level, Mayrhofen lies roughly 70 kilometers (43.5 miles) southeast of Innsbruck, the capital of Tyrol. Located at the upper end of the Zillertal Valley and surrounded by Alpine peaks, the town is a popular destination for both winter and summer tourism.
Mayrhofen’s history dates back to the Middle Ages. The first recorded mention of the settlement appears around the year 1200 in documents from the Archbishopric of Salzburg. The name “Mayrhofen” originates from “Meierhof,” meaning a farmstead that once belonged to the church.
Tourism is the backbone of Mayrhofen’s economy. The town welcomes around 1.3 million visitors each year, offering a variety of activities and attractions throughout all seasons. With winter sports, summer festivals, and business conferences, Mayrhofen is the second most visited tourist destination in Tyrol after Innsbruck.
Skiing in Mayrhofen
Mayrhofen features three main ski areas: Penken, Ahorn, and Horberg. The total length of ski runs reaches 139 kilometers (86 miles), with the longest single run stretching 12 kilometers (7.5 miles). Many of the slopes are equipped with lighting for night skiing. Modern cable cars, including the Penkenbahn and Ahornbahn, provide quick and efficient access to the slopes. Lifts generally operate from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
Several ski schools in Mayrhofen offer lessons for beginners and advanced skiers alike. Ski and snowboard rental shops are also widely available, ensuring visitors have everything they need for a comfortable skiing experience.
Climate in Mayrhofen
Mayrhofen has a temperate continental climate, characterized by cold, snowy winters and cool summers. The average annual temperature is about +2.6°C (36.7°F).
Warmest month: July, with average temperatures around +12°C (53.6°F). Coldest month: January, with average temperatures around -5°C (23°F).
Annual precipitation is approximately 1,666 mm (65.6 inches), fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, with a slight increase in the summer months.
Best times to visit Mayrhofen are during the winter season (December to March) and summer season (June to September). Winter is perfect for skiing and snowboarding, while summer offers excellent hiking, cycling, and nature observation opportunities.
Attractions in Mayrhofen
Mayrhofen offers a variety of attractions and activities for tourists. Highlights include:
— Penken Mountain & Penkenbahn Cable Car — A favorite among skiers and snowboarders, Penken Mountain features a range of trails suitable for all skill levels. The Penkenbahn cable car quickly takes visitors to the summit, where panoramic views of the surrounding Alps await.
— Ahorn Mountain & Ahornbahn Cable Car — One of Mayrhofen’s main attractions, Ahorn Mountain rises to 1,980 meters (6,496 feet) above sea level. Its wide, gentle slopes are ideal for beginners and families. The Ahornbahn transports visitors to the peak, where they can enjoy scenic vistas and visit the observation platform.
— Erlebnisbad Mayrhofen — A family-friendly indoor water park featuring pools, water slides, a sauna, and relaxation areas—perfect for unwinding after a day on the slopes.
— Schlegeis Alpine Road (Schlegeis Alpenstraße) — A scenic mountain road leading to the Schlegeis Reservoir. Along the way, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the Alps and glaciers, as well as hiking and picnic opportunities.
— Adlerbühne Ahorn (Eagle Stage Ahorn) — A bird of prey demonstration site located atop Ahorn Mountain. Visitors can watch eagles, falcons, and other raptors soar through the sky in their natural Alpine habitat.
— Snowbombing Festival — A unique fusion of winter sports and live music, the Snowbombing Festival hosts renowned DJs and musical acts each April, creating an unforgettable party atmosphere.
Mayrhofen also boasts an extensive network of hiking trails that wind through Alpine meadows, forests, and mountain ridges. Popular routes include trails around Penken and Ahorn Mountains, as well as scenic walks along the Ziller River.