Holidays in Nauders, Austria: Find holiday apartments & villas

Welcome to Nauders: Tyrol's high alpine hidden gem

Located on a sunny plateau at 1,394 meters above sea level, Nauders is a picturesque Alpine village where Austria, Italy and Switzerland meet. This unique location on the "three-country border" (Dreiländereck) gives the village a fascinating mix of Tyrolean tradition and Mediterranean atmosphere. Whether you're looking for an action-packed outdoor adventure or a quiet alpine retreat, Nauders is the perfect mountain escape.

A glimpse of history

Roman times

The village grew along the famous Via Claudia Augusta, an ancient Roman road that connected Italy with Germany over the Reschen Pass.

Medieval fortress

Due to its strategic location, fortifications were built to protect the trade route. The most prominent is Schloss Naudersberg, a 14th-century castle that still stands proudly today, offering a window into the region’s medieval past.

Modern Resilience

For centuries, Nauders was a farming community that braved harsh Alpine winters. Today, it has seamlessly transformed into a leading year-round tourist destination while carefully preserving its authentic, rustic charm.

Destination Description: Your Perfect Alpine Stay

Nauders perfectly balances old-world charm with modern Alpine luxury. The village center is characterized by narrow streets, historic fountains, and beautifully preserved farmhouses.

When it comes to accommodations, Nauders caters to every traveler’s style. If you’re looking for a homely experience, the village boasts an incredible selection of vacation rentals and cozy vacation rentals, ranging from rustic wood-paneled apartments to elegant, ultra-modern chalets.

For larger families or groups seeking privacy, luxurious mountain villas and premium holiday homes offer panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, complete with private wellness areas and crackling fireplaces. Whether you book a ski-in/ski-out apartment right next to the cable car or a secluded villa nestled in the alpine meadows, local hospitality ensures a relaxing holiday experience.

Nature and landscapes

The nature around Nauders is nothing short of dramatic. Surrounded by the towering peaks of the Ötztal Alps and the Samnaun Group, the landscape changes drastically with the seasons.

Reschen Pass and Lake Reschen

Just across the Italian border lies the iconic Lake Reschen, famous for its 14th-century underwater church tower rising from the water.

Schwarzer See (Black Lake)

A pristine, protected natural lake tucked away in the mountain forests, offering a tranquil place for reflection.

Plamort Plateau

A high-altitude wetland with unique flora, striking rock formations and historic anti-tank fortifications from World War II, all set against the backdrop of the majestic Ortler Mountain.

Activities for every season

Nauders is an absolute paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, no matter when you visit.

Winter wonders

Skiing and snowboarding: The Bergkastel ski area offers over 75 kilometres of wide, snow-sure pistes. Because it connects with the Italian ski resorts of Schöneben and Haideralm under the "Two Country Ski Arena" pass, the variety is enormous.

Tobogganing: Nauders is home to the Bergkastel toboggan run, which at 8 kilometers is one of the longest illuminated and groomed toboggan runs in Tyrol.

Winter hiking: Kilometers of cleared trails allow you to explore the snow-covered forests at a slower pace.

Summer adventures

Mountain biking: Nauders is legendary for its 3-country enduro trails. With over 58 kilometers of single trails crossing borders, it is a bucket list destination for mountain bikers.

Hiking and climbing: From gentle family hikes through alpine pastures to challenging summit climbs over 3,000 meters, the trail network stretches over 300 kilometers.

Kitesurfing: The nearby Reschensee becomes a hotspot for windsurfers and kitesurfers in the windy summer months.

Typical foods and culinary delights

The culinary scene in Nauders is a delicious collision of hearty Austrian Tyrolean cuisine and northern Italian (South Tyrolean) flavors.

Kaspressknödel

Pressed cheese dumplings, fried in a pan until crispy and golden. Served in a hot beef broth or on a bed of sauerkraut.

Schlutzkrapfen

Moon-shaped ravioli pasta, a delicious nod to neighboring South Tyrol. Filled with spinach and ricotta, topped with melted butter and parmesan.

Tiroler Gröstl

A comforting mountain casserole with fried potatoes, onions and minced beef or pork. Topped with a fried egg and fresh herbs.

Kaiserschmarrn

A fluffy, grated pancake caramelized in a pan with raisins and sugar. Served with a side of plum compote or applesauce.

Festivals and Culture

Tradition runs deep in Nauders, and the local community loves to celebrate its heritage withlively local festivals.

Almabtrieb (Autumn Cattle Drive)

In September, the cows are decorated with elaborate flower crowns and bells as they are led down from the high alpine pastures to the valley in winter. It is celebrated with live music, local food and farmers' markets.

Herz-Jesu-Feuer (Sacred Heart Fires)

In June, the mountains literally light up. Huge bonfires – often shaped like crosses or hearts – are lit high on the mountain ridges, a fantastic tradition dating back to the 18th century.

Nauder Summer Night Festivals

During July and August, the village streets come alive with outdoor concerts, street food stalls and traditional Tyrolean dance performances.

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