Summer in Galtür in thePaznaun – Ischgl means Bouldering, climbing and tackling Via Ferrata/Iron Way routes against a breathtaking glacial backdrop – all whilst enjoying pleasant temperatures when it gets hot down in the valley.
After all, Tirol’s only climatic health resort is situated at an altitude of just under 1,600 metres – whilst Silvapark Galtür is actually situated at between 1,800 and 2,000 metres. A lovely bonus of this high altitude is that Galtür has been ECARF-certified since 2018, making it the ideal destination for people with allergies and asthma. Incidentally, the certification also ensures that the facilities in the guest rooms take the needs of this group into account and that the resort offers a range of food products clearly labelled as suitable for them. The pure mountain air does the rest, so that everyone here can breathe easily.
Another plus point of Galtür: the bouldering park is designed for beginners and children as well as professionals. The various sectors, complete with topos and descriptions, guide bouldering enthusiasts perfectly through the many boulders and the 175 routes in total. The rock-climbing experience is rounded off by two interesting Via Ferrata/Iron Ways: the family-friendly ‘Little Ballun’ Via Ferrata/Iron Way and the challenging Silvapark Via Ferrata/Iron Way. If you’re still not satisfied, choose one of the many trail running routes or grab an (E-)Bike to explore the high-alpine region.
With great attention to detail and even greater passion for this wonderful sport, bouldering legend Bernd Zangerl took the lead in designing and developing Silvapark. The ever-growing bouldering community from all over the world is grateful to him and regularly makes the pilgrimage to Paznaun, travelling right to the end of this sun-drenched high valley. You can reach this paradise either on foot, by car (toll) or via the Birkhahnbahn cable car. From the Top station, for example, the children’s and beginners’ area is just a ten-minute walk away. And then it’s time to lay out your bouldering mat and tackle the marked bouldering problems – sometimes playfully, sometimes technically, sometimes with strength, and sometimes using a combination of all three. But the focus is always on having fun whilst being active.
During breaks, you can lie down in the grass or on a thick mat, watch the fluffy clouds drift by and have a nap. Or you can set off on an exploratory tour, for example to the ‘Anam Cara’ sector, and watch the experts at work. Here, the pros regularly tackle the extremely challenging routes. Watching the bouldering athletes as they perform their athletic moves, perfectly combining strength and technique – that’s definitely both inspiring and motivating.
Tip: If you’ve left your mat at home or need more equipment, bouldering mats can be hired on site.
Does Bouldering alone seem (at first glance) a bit too one-sided for a holiday? No problem! The ‘Silvapark’ Via Ferrata/Iron Way, rated as moderate to difficult (C/D), will satisfy even the most avid mountaineer. On the north face of the striking Ballunspitze (2,671 m) and practically at the foot of the bouldering park, the Via Ferrata/Iron Way winds its way up partly steep Rock Faces to the summit. A good 350 metres of altitude are covered, secured by a wire rope, across the ancient rock. At the top, a breathtaking view makes all the effort worthwhile. The view takes in the glacial world of the Silvretta Alps and the rugged rock towers of the Rätikon. The Kops reservoir is a feast for the eyes with its turquoise waters. The Via Ferrata/Iron Way should only be attempted in good weather conditions and when the ground is dry. Via Ferrata/Iron Way and mountaineering experience are essential; it is suitable for children aged 12 and over.
Via Ferrata/Iron Way novices are in good hands on the‘Little Ballun’. On the family via ferrata (suitable for children aged around 8 and over), participants can learn both how to use a via ferrata set and the correct walking and footwork techniques in a playful way on easy terrain (difficulty A/B). There’s just 100 metres of altitude to tackle. This shouldn’t be too much for anyone – instead, the via ferrata will leave you wanting to try more.
An overview of all climbing opportunities and Via Ferrata/Iron Ways is available in the Paznaun–Ischgl region.
After bouldering, the group either gathers on the meadow or, from this summer onwards, meets at the Faulbrunnalm Alpine Pasture. The Alpine Pasture is situated right next to the bouldering area, making it THE place to meet.
Luxury trail running and (E-)Mountain biking! Why? Because the Ischgl Ironbike, Silvrettarun 3000 and E-Bike World Championships already bring together the crème de la crème of the best runners and mountain bikers in the Paznaun. The network of trails for trail running and cycling is, unsurprisingly, excellent.
Tip for bad weather: the Alpinarium in Galtür. The award-winning building alone is extremely interesting for (amateur) architecture enthusiasts. Inside, you can visit changing exhibitions – or give the indoor bouldering wall a go, which, conveniently, is also located in the Alpinarium.
The Paznaun Valley, with its villages of See, Kappl, Ischgl and Galtür, offers a wide variety of accommodation options. From campsites to luxury spa hotels, there is something to suit every taste and requirement. There are also three accommodation options for climbers in Paznaun: the newly opened ‘Adrenalin’ aparthotel in Kappl, as well as the ‘Toni’ and the ‘Hubertus’ in Galtür.
Every guest staying overnight receives the Silvretta Alps Card from their accommodation provider at check-in. The basic package is free of charge; it allows free use of all local public transport buses, and cable car and chairlift rides are also free.
Anyone wishing to explore more, make the most of the facilities, or travelling with children should take a closer look at the Premium package: This offers unlimited free use of all Uphill Facilities in Paznaun and Samnaun; bike transport is included, as is participation in the children’s and Youth Activity Programs and free entry to the outdoor and indoor swimming pools in Ischgl and Galtür.
Tips & Safety
Would you like to know more about climbing safety? Click here for our safety tips.
