Kaiserwand in Ellmau – the training ground for tomorrow’s climbing champions

Updated on: 19. Aug 2026
Nestled amidst the impressive mountain scenery of the <a href="t3://page?uid=8824">Wilder Kaiser</a> lies a place that attracts not only bathers but also climbing enthusiasts. In Kaiserbad Ellmau, the <a href="t3://record?identifier=addressbase&uid=187160">Kaiserwand</a> awaits: an indoor climbing centre that proves that a genuine love of climbing doesn’t require a big budget, but rather passion, knowledge and the right people.Anyone who comes here soon realises that it’s about more than just training when the weather’s bad. It’s about varied routes, a sense of community and the joy of climbing. And, above all, it’s about the fact that every route has its own character.
Klettern an der Kaiserwand in Ellmau am Wilden Kaiser
Klettern an der Kaiserwand in Ellmau am Wilden Kaiser

Creative route design combining local and international expertise

The Kaiserwand thrives on its route-setters – two minds, two philosophies, one shared goal: to create brilliant routes.

Armin Widauer knows the indoor climbing centre and the climbing scene in the Tirolean lowlands like no one else. Since 2017, the majority of the routes on the Kaiserwand have been his creation. For him, it’s clear: “Because there are cool routes” – that’s the reason to climb on the Kaiserwand. But that isn’t enough for him. Even Easy routes should offer a certain 

Klaus Fendler brings international expertise to Ellmau. He has set routes for competitions in Australia, Russia, Singapore and the USA, and has trained and coached many climbers. His experience is wide-ranging – and you can really tell from his routes. For Klaus, the art of route-setting lies not in complexity, but in clarity: routes should be accessible, not appear overloaded, and yet still be challenging. “The technical aspect usually emerges of its own accord,” he says. It is the seemingly simple lines that naturally guide the body towards precise movements – and therein lies the key to lasting climbing enjoyment.

Armin and Klaus have made plans together: regular updates, new routes every month, so that things never get boring in the hall and there’s never a shortage of projects. And the best bit? A feedback system for all climbers – a genuine invitation to voice their wishes and help shape the development of the routes. The climbing centre thrives on its community. “Even on easy routes, you’re allowed to think things through a bit” – that’s his philosophy. Whether he’s setting routes or climbing the wall himself.

Flexible climbing – whenever it suits you

Fancy a spontaneous early-morning session? Or would you prefer a few relaxed routes late on a Sunday evening? At the Kaiserwand, this will soon be possible without any organisational hassle.

A modern access system is already in the pipeline: register, pick up your season ticket, and you’re sorted. Climbers can use the hall independently during opening hours – including checking in and out. Above all, this means: more freedom, maximum flexibility, and no administrative hassle. So you can climb whenever suits you.

The facilities on the wall are also impressive: around 800 m² of climbing area with walls up to 16 metres high. Over 90 varied routes up to Level of Difficulty 10. Whether you’re taking your first attempts at climbing or tackling challenging projects – there’s a challenge for everyone here. Two automatic belay devices are available.

For the youngest visitors – or as a relaxed way to get started – there’s also a small bouldering wall. Perfect for honing your technique, warming up, or having fun as you take your first steps up the wall.

Climbing on the Kaiserwand in Ellmau on the Wilder Kaiser

A training ground for the climbing champions of the future

The Kaiserwand does not stand alone – it is closely linked to the region around Ellmau and the Wilder Kaiser. Anyone training here is not just looking out at the real rocks outside in a symbolic sense.

The Wilder Kaiser has always been regarded as one of Austria’s most important climbing areas. Legends such as Hermann Buhl, Hans Dülfer and Paul Preuß – names familiar to every climber – have already felt the Kaiser’s limestone beneath their hands. Many of those who are out there today tackling the imposing walls took their first steps right here: in a climbing centre like the Kaiserwand.

The Kaiserwand is thus set to become a kind of talent incubator. A place where the next ‘climbing emperors’ grow up – young talents with a sparkle in their eyes, but also adults rediscovering their passion. A training circuit between the coloured holds and the real rock outside. A place where the basics are mastered before heading out into the mountains.

The fascination begins with the small things

So the next time you find yourself at the Kaiserbad and let your gaze wander towards the Wilder Kaiser, you’ll know this: great climbing stories often start small – with colourful holds, a route that grabs hold of you and won’t let go, and people who know what they’re doing.

The Kaiserwand in Ellmau is ready. The routes are bolted, the community is waiting, and the future is already taking shape. It’s high time to pay a visit.

More information about the Kaiserwand

Whether you’re just starting out in climbing or looking for training facilities for advanced climbers – the newly built climbing centre at the foot of the Wilder Kaiser offers ideal conditions and plenty of space. The climbing area covers 805 m² and has a height of up to 16 m, with a floor area of 173 m².

Kaiserwand / Kaiserbad Ellmau