Magical places in the Alps: Mountaineering villages stand for nature-oriented tourism

To the west and east of the Chiemgau flower mountain Geigelstein (1,808 m), the towns of Sachrang (738 m) and Schleching (569 m) offer a mountaineering village duo. The summit in their midst is particularly attractive from Sachrang (7–8 hours, 18 km, 1,100 m elevation gain). Among the best tours on the Schleching side is the circular hike to the idyllic Taubensee (5 hours, 12.6 km, 862 m elevation gain). PDF flyer: schleching.de/ueber-schleching/bergsteigerdoerfer

In addition to Sachrang and Schleching, there are two other mountaineering villages in Germany: Ramsau and Kreuth – a total of 38 mountaineering villages (as of 2024). The added value for these villages lies not only in their increasing recognition as mountain destinations among Alpine Club members, with over 2.5 million Alpine Club members. They are also encouraged in their focus on sustainable tourism, which is intended to have positive effects on agriculture, local supply, transport, and population development.

In northern Slovenia, the peaks of the Karawanks and the Kamnik Alps frame the country's first mountaineering village , the tranquil municipality of Jezersko. Don't miss the hike (3.5 hours, 663 meters elevation gain) from the town center to the traditional Češka koča ("Czech Hut") at 1,543 meters. Those who want to go higher can tackle the scenic peak of Velika Baba (2,127 meters) from Lake Planšarsko (7 hours, 1,237 meters elevation gain). Information at: jezersko.info

Not far from the Italian Riviera, the 360-person community of Triora (780 m) is nestled between deep forests, ancient olive groves, and snow-capped mountains. Twenty-two official hiking trails crisscross the surrounding area. Starting directly in the medieval town center, for example, are the challenging climb (7 hours, 1,420 m elevation gain) of the Ligurian peak king, Monte Saccarello (2,200 m), and the enjoyable tour (4 hours, 448 m elevation gain) to the almost deserted hamlet of Goina .

The most attractive way to approach the mountaineering village of Lunz am See in Lower Austria's Mostviertel region is by bike: along the heart of the Ybbstal Cycle Path (55 km), which leads from Waidhofen along an old railway line to its destination. Those who want to lace up their hiking boots shouldn't miss the partly high-alpine panoramic tour (2 days, 21.5 km, 1547 m elevation gain) via the Ybbstalerhütte to the Dürrenstein (1878 m). Information at: ybbstaler-alpen.at

These new Alpine villages also stand for authentic flair and sustainable tourism:

• Baška Grapa (Slovenia): This valley is nestled between the Julian Alps and stretches along the Bača River between Tolmin and Bohinj. The region is characterized by picturesque villages and old railway viaducts that reflect the valley's cultural heritage. An extensive network of trails opens up the diverse landscape for hikers and mountain bikers. The accession ceremony took place on May 24, 2025.
• Campo Vallemaggia (Switzerland, Ticino): Located in the rear Rovana Valley, this area encompasses the four villages of Niva, Pian di Campo, Campo Vallemaggia, and Cimalmotto. Surrounded by rocky peaks, sparse larch forests, and green meadows, various hiking trails depart from the center of the main town. Particularly attractive are tours to Alpe Magnello on the Italian border or via Cimalmotto to Alpe Sfille in the Onsernone Valley. The accession ceremony is planned for June 21, 2025.
• Lauenen (Switzerland, Bernese Oberland) This charming village is located in the western Bernese Oberland and is surrounded by two nature reserves, a raised bog, and imposing peaks. Its unspoiled natural beauty is Lauenen's greatest asset – Lake Lauenen is a popular destination for visitors and locals alike. The accession ceremony is scheduled for August 1, 2025 .

Since last year, the long-distance hiking trail "Bergsteigerdörfer" (Mountaineering Villages) has connected four mountaineering villages: Guarda, Ardez, and Lavin in the Swiss Lower Engadine, and Matsch in the South Tyrolean Upper Vinschgau. This alpine long-distance hiking trail, divided into six stages, accumulates approximately 5,000 meters of ascent and descent over a distance of nearly 100 kilometers . Buses are available for shortcuts in some places. Overnight stays are offered partly in huts and partly in villages. Further information about the trail: alpenvereinaktiv.com/s/3vtu9g , and package deals are available at eurotrek.ch.