Welcome to Wald im Pinzgau
Located at the foot of the Gerlos Pass and the Hohe Tauern National Park, Wald im Pinzgau is a quiet alpine retreat that feels like a well-kept secret. It offers the perfect balance between traditional Salzburgerland charm and modern holiday comfort. Whether you are looking for a luxury coastal-style villa in the mountains or a cozy, rustic holiday apartment, Wald serves as a peaceful base camp for exploring the Zillertal Arena and Wildkogel Arena.
History and heritage
Wald im Pinzgau has deep roots as a mountain farming village. Historically, it was a crucial transit point for salt and goods transported over the mountain passes to the Tyrol region.
The mineral village: The area has long been known for its rich mineral deposits, especially emeralds and rock crystals found in the nearby Habach Valley.
Traditional architecture: You will notice that the village has retained its historic soul, with many 16th-century farmhouses still standing, with the dark wooden balconies typical of the Pinzgau region.
Nature: The gateway to the mountain peaks
The Wald is the region's "green lung". It lies at an altitude of 885 metres, surrounded by lush meadows and dramatic peaks.
Krimmler Waterfalls: Just a few minutes away is Europe's highest waterfall. The fine mist is scientifically proven to help with allergies and asthma.
Hohe Tauern National Park: One of the largest nature reserves in Europe, offering untouched glaciers and a diverse alpine flora and fauna.
Activities: Year-round adventures
Whether you prefer the "Ski-In" lifestyle or summer hiking, there is no shortage of activity here.
Winter: You're sandwiched between the Zillertal Arena and the Wildkogel Arena. Enjoy skiing, snowboarding and the world's longest floodlit toboggan run (14 km!) in nearby Bramberg.
Summer: Explore the Pinzgau bike trail, go canyoning or take a guided "mineral hike" to look for crystals.
Wellness: The Kristallbad in Wald is a local favorite with indoor/outdoor pools and a massive sauna landscape - perfect for relaxing after a day on the slopes.
Typical foods: A taste of the Alps
Pinzgauer cuisine is hearty and designed to nourish the mountain workers. Don't leave without trying:
Pinzgauer Kasnockn: Small dumplings doused with spicy local "Pinzgauer Bierkäse" (beer cheese) and topped with fried onions.
Schlutzkrapfen: Crescent-shaped pasta filled with spinach and ricotta.
Moosbeernocken: Wild blueberry pancakes sprinkled with powdered sugar, usually served in a cast-iron pan.
Festivals and Culture
The village comes alive with traditional festivities that have remained unchanged for centuries:
Bauernherbst (Farmer's Autumn): A celebration of the harvest with cattle drives (Almabtrieb), where cows are decorated with flowers.
Village Evenings: Weekly summer concerts with the local brass band (Trachtenmusikkapelle), where locals wear traditional lederhosen and dirndls.
Advent Markets: In December, the village is transformed into a fairy-tale landscape with small wooden stalls selling handmade crafts and Glühwein.