Holidays in Austria: Villas and holiday apartments in East Tyrol with Italiavillas

Welcome to East Tyrol (Osttirol)

Welcome to East Tyrol, the "hidden gem" of the Austrian Alps. While North Tyrol is famous for its bustling resorts, East Tyrol - separated by a narrow strip of Italian territory - remains a haven of untouched nature, authentic hospitality and majestic peaks.

Description: Your Alpine Escape

East Tyrol is defined by its dramatic contrasts: the jagged, pale limestone of the Lienz Dolomites in the south and the towering, glacier-clad giants of the Hohe Tauern National Park in the north. The "Sun City" of Lienz serves as the region's charming Mediterranean-inspired heart. If you're planning a holiday, you'll find that the accommodation here reflects the local spirit. You can book a luxury villa with a view of the valley, stay in a modern holiday apartment with a private sauna or rent a traditional mountain hut (Hütte) for a real "off-grid" feeling.

Whether it's a spacious penthouse for the whole family or a cozy studio for a romantic getaway, the focus is always on high-quality natural wood and breathtaking mountain views.

History in a nutshell

East Tyrol has a unique "island" history. After World War I, when South Tyrol was ceded to Italy, East Tyrol became an enclave, physically separated from the rest of North Tyrol. Roman roots: You can visit Aguntum, the only Roman city in Tyrol, which was once a thriving trading center.

Medieval power: Bruck Castle in Lienz was the seat of the Counts of Gorizia and now houses a world-class museum dedicated to the expressionist painter Albin Egger-Lienz. Resilience: The region’s history is one of hardy mountain farmers who preserved their dialects and customs despite their geographical isolation.

Typical foods: Hearty Alpine soul

The cuisine here is honest, hearty and deeply connected to the land.

Schlipfkrapfen: East Tyrol’s signature dish. These are handmade pasta dishes filled with a savory mixture of potatoes, herbs and onions, served with browned butter and Parmesan.

Tiroler Gröstl: A hearty casserole of potatoes, speck (bacon) and onions, usually topped with a fried egg.

Speckknödel: Hearty bread dumplings with smoked bacon, often served in a clear broth or with sauerkraut.

Osttiroler Pregler: A protected regional fruit brandy (Schnapps) made from apples and pears – a must-try “digestif” after a long hike.

Nature and activities

Nature is the main event here. East Tyrol is home to 266 peaks over 3,000 meters, including the Großglockner, Austria’s highest mountain (3,798 m).

Summer activities: Hiking: Explore the Virgental or Villgratental, one of the most untouched valleys in the Alps.

Adrenaline: Ride the Osttirodler, one of the world’s longest alpine roller coasters, or brave the Galitzenklamm water adventure park.

Cycling: The Drava Cycle Path is a gentle, downhill route that’s perfect for families.

Winter Activities: Skiing: Enjoy the uncrowded slopes of the Großglockner Resort Kals-Matrei or Zettersfeld. Ski touring: East Tyrol is considered the mecca for ski touring in the Eastern Alps due to its reliable snow and vast, open terrain.

Festivals and traditions

Tradition is not just for tourists here; it is a way of life.

Krampus Runs: In early December, the streets of Lienz and the surrounding villages come alive with "Krampus" figures - mythical masked creatures in sheepskin, intended to drive away evil spirits.

Almabtrieb: In autumn, cattle are adorned with elaborate floral headdresses and driven down from the high mountain pastures to the valley - a massive celebration with music and local markets.

Olala Festival: Every summer, Lienz is transformed into the stage for one of Europe's best international street theatre and circus festivals.

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