Achenkirch

This municipality is composed of several scattered villages in the Achental valley, extending up to Lake Achensee.

Altitude: 916 m asl

At the northern lakeside of Lake Achensee, there is Achenkirch and its component localities Achenkirch, Achensee, Achental and Achenwald, Scholastika and the terrain of the former Achenseehof farm. In other words, the municipal territory extends from Lake Achensee to the Bavarian border. Already in 1313 AD the village was known as “Achental”, while only in 1971 its name was changed to Achenkirch. Around the turn of the last century, Achenkirch was a popular destination for summer vacationists, including famous personalities such as the authors Peter Rosegger and Ludwig Ganghofer. And Felix Mitterer, famous Austrian actor and playwright, was born here.

In the village and its surroundings, there are several places of cultural interest, e.g. 15 chapels dating back to the 18th, 19th and 20th century. The parish church and its bulbous spire, built in 1748, is dedicated to Saint John the Baptist. Further buildings that are worth noticing are a wine tavern that has already been mentioned in the 15th century, and which maintained its original form up to present times. It has recently been renovated, serving as tavern today. The “Salzstadel” building, however, has once upon a time been meeting point for salt merchants between the salines Hall and Munich, and today it is in private hands.

Summer at Achenkirch is characterized by the lake and the surrounding mountains: Lake Achensee is the largest lake of Tyrol, attracting a large number of people due to shipping, great sports offers and numerous beaches. Hiking along the 450 km of well-manicured trails stands for great panoramic views, also down on the lake. Regarding the winter season, the Hochalm-Christlum skiing area is particularly snow-sure, offering 25 km of ski slopes and 4 lift facilities. Beside Achenkirch offers 58 km of cross-country ski trails and several other possibilities to experience winter at its best. Make a horse-drawn sleigh ride, wrapped in a cosy warm blanket. Not only comfortable, but also romantic!

Our recommendation: worthwhile is also the traditional Sixenhof farm, in which the museum of local history is accommodated. This museum provides an insight into the lifestyle and handicraft of former times.