Holiday houses and apartments in Aschau, Austria | Italiavillas

Welcome to Aschau im Zillertal

Located in the heart of the Tyrolean Alps, Aschau im Zillertal is often described as the "quiet center" of the Zillertal valley. While neighboring towns like Zell or Mayrhofen buzz with energy, Aschau offers a more authentic, relaxed atmosphere - making it the perfect base for a rejuvenating holiday.

History in brief

Aschau's roots are deeply agricultural. For centuries it functioned as a quiet farming community. Its name, derived from "Esche" (ash tree) and "Au" (river plain), suggests its natural landscape along the Ziller River. Over the past century, it has transformed itself from a remote mountain village into a leading holiday destination, carefully balancing modern tourism with its preserved Tyrolean heritage.

Description and Accommodation

The village is characterised by its charming wood-panelled architecture and flower-covered balconies. Whether you are looking for a rustic experience or top-class comfort, the town stands out for its variety

Atmosphere: It is a place where cowbells provide the soundtrack and the air smells of fresh pine and hay.

Typical foods (Zillertaler Delikatesser)

Tyrolean cuisine is hearty and designed to nourish mountain travellers. Don't leave without trying:

Zillertaler Krapfen: A local speciality consisting of a crispy rye pastry filled with a tasty mixture of potatoes and grey cheese (Graukäse).

Kasspatzln: Soft egg noodles rolled in melted Alpine cheese and topped with crispy fried onions.

Tiroler Gröstl: A hearty casserole of potatoes, meat (usually beef or pork) and onions, topped with a fried egg.

Speckknödel: Bread dumplings filled with smoked Tyrolean bacon, served in a clear broth or with sauerkraut.

Activities

Aschau is a year-round playground for outdoor enthusiasts:

Winter: It lies directly between two massive ski areas: Hochzillertal-Kaltenbach and the Zillertal Arena. A dedicated ski slope ("Aschau Valley Run") leads directly back to the village.

Summer: The village is a hub for hiking and mountain biking. The Zillertal cycle path runs right through the center and offers a flat route along the river for families.

Adventure: Nearby you will find climbing gardens, paragliding sites and the "Erlebnistherme Zillertal" thermal baths for rainy days.

Nature

Nature is Aschau's greatest asset. The village is flanked by the Zillertal Alps to the east and the Tux Alps to the west.

The Ziller River: Provides a tranquil backdrop for morning walks.

High Alpine Pastures: Just a short gondola ride away, you’ll find lush meadows that transform into a sea of ??wildflowers in June and July.

Waterfalls: Several hidden cascades can be found in the smaller side valleys that branch off from the main town.

Festivals and Traditions

Life in Aschau follows the rhythm of the seasons:

Almabtrieb (Autumn): One of the most famous traditions, where cattle are decorated with flowers and bells and driven down from the high pastures to the valley in winter. It’s a massive celebration with music and local markets.

Gauder Fest (May): Held in the neighboring town of Zell, but heavily attended by Aschau locals. This is Austria's oldest spring festival, famous for its strong "Gauder Bock" beer and traditional wrestling (Ranggeln).

Village Concerts: During the summer, the local brass band (Bundesmusikkapelle) performs weekly outdoor concerts in the market square.

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