Visiting the Stubai Valley in summer is guaranteed to create unforgettable memories of hiking, swimming, and other adventures against a magnificent mountain backdrop. And all of this less than an hour away from Innsbruck in Tyrol.
We’ve been visiting the Stubai Valley for years, and it remains one of our favourite summer destinations in Tyrol. The best part? You don’t have to be an experienced mountaineer to enjoy it. The valley caters just as well to families with toddlers as it does to keen hikers looking for a challenge.
Whether you’re planning a day trip from Innsbruck or a week-long holiday in the Austrian Alps, this guide covers everything you need to know.
About the Stubai Valley
The Stubai Valley stretches approximately 35 kilometres from Schönberg, just south of Innsbruck, to the Stubai Glacier deep within the Stubai Alps.
Surrounded by more than 100 peaks over 3,000 metres high, it is one of Austria’s best outdoor destinations while remaining remarkably accessible. Excellent roads, cable cars and public transport make it possible for almost anyone to experience spectacular mountain scenery.
The valley consists of five main villages, each with its own character:
Schönberg im Stubaital
Known as the gateway to the valley, Schönberg is where the Stubai Valley branches off from the Brenner route.
Mieders
A charming village famous for the Serlesbahnen and its thrilling Alpine Coaster.
Telfes im Stubai
A quieter village with beautiful walking paths and traditional Tyrolean charm.
Fulpmes
The largest village after Neustift and home to the popular Schlick 2000 hiking area.
Neustift im Stubaital
The valley’s tourism hub, offering the widest choice of accommodation, restaurants and access to the Stubai Glacier.
How to Get to the Stubai Valley
The Stubai Valley is one of the most accessible Alpine regions in Austria, whether you’re arriving by car, train or plane.
By Car
From Innsbruck, take the A13 Brenner motorway south and exit at Schönberg im Stubaital, then follow the Stubaitalstraße into the valley. The drive from Innsbruck to Neustift takes around 30 to 40 minutes, and the road continues all the way up to the Stubai Glacier car parks.
By Public Transport
The valley is served by the Stubaitalbahn (STB) tram, which runs directly from Innsbruck’s city centre and main station to Fulpmes. From there, regular valley buses connect all the villages, cable car stations and major attractions, making a car unnecessary for most visitors. Holders of the Stubai Super Card (more on that below) can use the valley buses and the tram to Innsbruck for free.
By Plane
Innsbruck Airport is the closest, roughly 20 kilometres from the valley entrance and easily reached by taxi or public transport. Munich Airport is a common alternative for international visitors, around two and a half hours away by car.
Interactive Map of the Stubai Valley
Use the map below to get your bearings and see how the villages, cable cars and attractions mentioned in this guide fit together.
Best Things to Do in the Stubai Valley
1. Spend the Day at Klaus Äuele Adventure Park
If you’re travelling with children, Klaus Äuele is one of the best free attractions in the Stubai Valley.
Set among forests, meadows and mountain streams near Neustift, this beautiful nature playground is the kind of place where children disappear happily for hours while parents finally get a chance to relax.
The playground has been thoughtfully designed around the surrounding landscape rather than filling it with plastic equipment. Children can pull themselves across the pond on a wooden raft, build dams and waterways, splash in shallow streams, climb and balance on natural obstacles, swing and slide, cross the stream on a zipline, and enjoy large open spaces for running and exploring.
For years we loved bringing our Weber grill for a proper South African braai, but open grilling is no longer permitted. Fortunately, there’s now a restaurant and café on site serving drinks, snacks and meals, making it.
Good to know: Admission is free. Paid parking is available. Toilets and restaurant facilities are available. Allow at least 2 to 3 hours.
2. Visit the Spectacular Grawa Waterfall
Just a few minutes further up the valley lies one of the most impressive natural attractions in Tyrol.
Grawa Waterfall is the widest waterfall in the Eastern Alps, stretching approximately 85 metres across while plunging nearly 180 metres down the mountainside.
A short, easy walk leads from the parking area to several viewing platforms where you can experience the full force of the cascading water. The cool mist is wonderfully refreshing on hot summer days and is believed by many to have therapeutic benefits.
Comfortable wooden loungers near the viewing platform allow visitors to relax while listening to the roar of the waterfall.
The accessible walking paths also make this an excellent stop for families with younger children. If waterfalls are a highlight of your Austria trip, the Krimml Waterfalls make a spectacular day out elsewhere in the region.
Don’t miss Grawa Alm: Before leaving, stop at the nearby Grawa Alm which overlooks the waterfall. This traditional Alpine hut is one of our favourite places in the valley for an ice cream, coffee or cold drink after visiting the waterfall.
3. Go Paragliding Above the Stubai Valley
Watching colourful paragliders silently circle above Neustift is almost as entertaining as flying yourself.
The Stubai Valley is internationally known for its excellent thermal conditions, making it one of Austria’s most popular destinations for paragliding.
If you’ve never flown before, tandem flights with experienced pilots allow you to experience the incredible scenery without needing any previous experience. Even if you prefer keeping your feet on the ground, the landing area near the Elferbahn cable car station is a wonderful place to enjoy a drink while watching dozens of colourful wings drift through the sky.
4. Ride an Alpine Coaster
Few attractions create bigger smiles than the Mieders Alpine Coaster at Serlesbahnen.
The 2.8-kilometre track twists and turns through the forest with exciting bends, bridges and drops. You control your own speed, making it suitable for both cautious riders and adrenaline seekers.
Children can ride with an adult, while older children often enjoy racing down repeatedly.
Instead of immediately returning to the valley after one ride, spend some time exploring the mountain. The Serles area also offers family hiking trails, mountain restaurants, adventure playgrounds, water play areas and beautiful picnic spots. It’s an ideal destination for spending half a day.
Neustift’s Elferbahnen also opened a brand-new Alpine Coaster in summer 2026. The Elfercoaster starts at the Elfer mountain station at 1,790 metres and winds roughly 1.3 kilometres down through the forest, reaching speeds of up to 40 km/h across steep curves and several loops.
5. Explore the Stubai Glacier in Summer
Many visitors associate the Stubai Glacier with winter skiing, but it’s equally spectacular during summer.
Austria’s largest glacier ski area transforms into a hiking destination with panoramic walking trails, viewing platforms and family attractions.
Take the cable cars high into the mountains and enjoy breathtaking views across the Stubai Alps. Children love the large playground near the mountain station, while adults can simply admire the incredible scenery from one of the panoramic terraces.
Even in midsummer you’ll often find patches of snow, making this a fun experience for children who have never played in snow during summer holidays.
6. Ride the Summer Lifts
One of the easiest ways to experience the Alps without tackling long climbs is by using the Stubai cable cars. The valley has several summer lift systems, each opening access to different hiking areas. They are:
- Elferbahnen – based in Neustift at the foot of the Elfer peak, offering the new Elfercoaster alpine coaster, hiking trails and paragliding.
- Schlick 2000 – Gondola from Fulpmes, with themed walking trails, mountain playgrounds, adventure stations and access to the Stubai High Trail.
- Serlesbahnen – located in Mieders, home to the Mieders Alpine Coaster, family hiking trails, mountain restaurants and water play areas.
- Stubai Glacier lifts – based near Neustift at the head of the valley, offering glacier hiking, viewing platforms, a playground and summer snow play.
All the mountain stations have family adventure activities, playgrounds and restaurants, allowing visitors to enjoy the scenery without needing advanced hiking skills.
7. Hike the WildeWasser Trail
The Wilde Wasser Weg is one of the most beautiful hikes in Tyrol.
The trail follows rushing mountain streams, waterfalls and the Sulzenegg basin while connecting several of the valley’s highlights, including Grawa Waterfall.
There are various sections ranging from easy family walks to a longer, steeper hike to the Sulzenauhütte. Bring plenty of water and allow yourself time to stop at the viewing platforms along the way.
8. Discover Schlick 2000
Schlick 2000 is another fantastic summer destination, particularly for families.
Take the gondola from Fulpmes before exploring an extensive network of hiking trails with magnificent views over the valley. Children especially enjoy the themed walking trails, mountain playgrounds, adventure stations and easy circular walks.
One highlight is the Stubai Tree House Trail, an easy circular route between the middle station and the Vergör alpine hut, where kids can climb, play and rest at a series of themed tree houses along the way. Little ones can also join a treasure hunt with a friendly dwarf character, while the nearby disc trail lets you roll a wooden disc down a purpose-built track for some extra fun.
More experienced hikers can continue towards the famous Stubai High Trail or climb one of the surrounding peaks.
Come winter, the same slopes become one of our favourite family ski resorts near Innsbruck; read our full Schlick 2000 ski resort review for tips on runs, lift passes and where to stay.
9. Visit Maria Waldrast
If you’re looking for a quieter experience, visit Maria Waldrast, Europe’s highest monastery.
Located on the slopes above Mieders, this peaceful pilgrimage site is surrounded by forests and mountain scenery. It’s easily reached on foot from the Serles lift station and makes a lovely stop for lunch or coffee while enjoying the peaceful surroundings.
10. Enjoy Traditional Alpine Food
No visit to Stubai is complete without spending time at one of the valley’s mountain huts.
Whether you’ve completed a long hike or simply taken the cable car to the top, there’s nothing better than enjoying traditional Tyrolean food while looking out across the Alps. Look out for local favourites including Tiroler Gröstl, Kaspressknödel, Kaiserschmarrn, Brettljause and homemade apple strudel.
Many huts also have playgrounds, making lunch stops enjoyable for the whole family.
11. Go Hiking in the Mountains
One of Stubai’s greatest strengths is the sheer scale and variety of hiking on offer, with well over 300 kilometres of signposted trails winding through the valley and its side valleys. Hikers can choose easy trails in the valley like the one around Klaus Äuele, or slightly longer routes like the WildeWasser Trail.
Getting up into the high mountains doesn’t have to mean hours of steep climbing, either. The valley’s cable cars and chairlifts, including those at Schlick 2000, Serles and the Stubai Glacier, whisk you up to well over 2,000 metres in a matter of minutes.
From these mountain stations, well-marked paths lead onward into more demanding terrain for those craving a real challenge, including sections of the Stubaier Höhenweg, which links a chain of huts across high passes and glacier-view ridgelines, such as the dramatic Olperer Hut in the Ziller Valley.
Whatever route you choose, Stubai’s traditional alms and mountain huts are never far away, offering a welcome place to rest tired legs and refuel with hearty Tyrolean fare, cold drinks and homemade cake.
Where to Stay: Neustift vs Fulpmes vs Mieders
Neustift
Best for first-time visitors, families and anyone wanting the largest choice of accommodation and restaurants, plus the easiest access to the Stubai Glacier.
Hotel: Sporthotel Neustift is a family-friendly hotel just a few minutes’ walk from the village centre, with a pool, sauna and hearty breakfast to fuel your days in the mountains.
Self-catering: Alpin Apartments Volderauer sit right in the heart of Neustift, giving you your own kitchen and a balcony with mountain views after a day of hiking or lift rides.
Fulpmes
Ideal for hiking holidays and easy access to Schlick 2000, with a good range of shops and restaurants for a village of its size.
Hotel: Hotel Alphof Stubaital is a cosy family-run hotel a short stroll from the centre of Fulpmes, offering comfortable rooms and half-board dining after a day on the Schlick 2000 trails.
Self-catering: Aparthotel Krösbacher offers bright self-catering apartments close to the centre of Fulpmes, ideal if you’d rather cook your own meals between hikes.
Mieders
Perfect if you’re planning to spend time at the Serlesbahnen or prefer a quieter village atmosphere.
Hotel: Hotel Alpenstolz is a small, highly-rated hotel just steps from the centre of Mieders, known for its excellent kitchen, making it a great base for exploring the Serlesbahnen.
Self-catering: Ferienwohnungen Obex are privately run apartments in Mieders a short walk from the village centre, perfect for families wanting their own space and kitchen close to the Alpine Coaster.
Is the Stubai Super Card Worth It?
If you’re staying overnight during summer, absolutely.
Many participating hotels, guesthouses and apartments include the Stubai Super Card, which offers outstanding value. Benefits typically include:
- One daily return trip on participating cable cars.
- One daily return trip on the Stubai Glacier lifts.
- Free use of valley buses.
- Free travel on the Stubai tram to Innsbruck.
- Admission to selected swimming pools.
- Discounts on attractions and activities.
Since lift tickets are often one of the biggest holiday expenses, the savings can be considerable for families. Always check whether your accommodation includes the card before booking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Stubai Valley worth visiting in summer?
Absolutely. It combines spectacular Alpine scenery with family attractions, cable cars, waterfalls and excellent hiking.
How many days should I spend in Stubai?
A day trip is possible, but two to four days allows you to experience the valley at a much more relaxed pace.
Is Stubai suitable for young children?
Yes. Nature playgrounds, cable cars, easy walks and family attractions make it one of Austria’s best Alpine destinations for children.
Can you visit the Stubai Valley without a car?
Yes. Regular buses connect all villages and many attractions.
When is the best time to visit Stubai for a summer holiday?
Late June to September offers the best weather, fully open mountain lifts and the widest choice of hiking routes.
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Whoaaa paragliding looks so much fun!