Kartitsch

This alpinist village is located in the Gailtal valley, the highest located valley in East Tyrol.

Altitude: 1,356 m asl

Kartitsch can look back on a long history: Already in the 3rd and 4th century it has been inhabited by the Romans. In 965 AD, however, it has been mentioned for the first time under the name “Kartisa”. After having been affected by Black Death and locust infestation, this place has been frontside in the WWI. In the surroundings there are still trenches of those times. Also the emblem of the village is kept simple and depicts a golden crescent moon on blue background and reminds on the Wiser family of Kartitsch.

Its position in the Gailtal valley in the heart of the Dolomites and the Carnic Alps, makes Kartisch a perfect starting point for hikes in the beautiful mountains, lush meadows and clear mountain air. You can also make hikes in the Sesto Dolomites, as South Tyrol/Italy is only 12 km away. There are a range of possibilities to explore the world of mountains are for example the Kinigat path (2,689 m asl) as well as the Spitzenstein fixed rope route (2,265 m asl). And: Kartitsch is a pilgrimage site, the little Maria Hilf church, located above the village, with the nearby tavern is a popular destination.

In winter the Gailtal valley is one of the valleys of East Tyrol which is snow-sure. This stands for snow fun until spring! Above all the nearby skiing area Dorfberg-Kartitsch takes you from the village on 4 km of ski slopes. Connected is also a 60 km long cross-country ski network and 20 km of hiking paths, leading across untouched winter landscape. Maybe you prefer speedy toboggan rides? You can even choose between the “Bärenlochbahn” and the “Seelandbahn” on the Kartisch Saddle - both of them offer you the possibility to stop for a hot drink.

Our tip: The Obstans glacial cave (pic: Lake Obstans) is a special place - the way takes about 45 minutes and you can go inside about 100 m. Don’t forget to bring a lamp and adequate equipment! Mysterious: The largest part of the 800 m long cave system is still unexplored.