Wondering where to find the best view of Kufstein and its surrounding mountain ranges? Anyone who finds themselves in the Alpine city has most likely already been wondering how to reach the top of this mountain towering over Kufstein. There are two main hiking routes to the top of Pendling and the best view of Kufstein.
The last time I found myself on top of this mountain towering over my hometown was as a child when I was carried to the top. It took eight years of me living abroad and many family visits to finally hike to the top myself. Oh wow, was I surprised by how easy it was!
Whichever non-strenuous path you choose, yes non-strenuous, you will be rewarded with a view over the magnificent peaks of the Kaisergebirge, Kitzbüheler Alps, Hohe Tauern, and Zillertaler Alps. Maybe you will even treat yourself to a Sachertorte. Trying to figure out where to start your hike, what other ways there are to explore Pendling, where to stay, and what on Earth a Sachertorte is? Read on to find out.
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THE DIFFERENT WAYS OF REACHING THE TOP OF PENDLING
Other than the free hiking trails starting in either the city of Kufstein or the village Thiersee, there is a possibility of climbing to the top of the mountain without a guided tour. Another alternative would be to mountain bike to the summit of this mountain towering over Kufstein.
WHICH HIKING PATH TO CHOOSE
There are two different starting points. The longer trail starting in Kufstein takes a total of around five hours. The shorter path starting in Thiersee takes three hours in total. The best way to choose where to embark on the hike is by whichever place is closer to the location of your accommodation.
Pendling: Hiking To The Best View From Kufstein.
The easiest way to start is at the Kloster Maria Hilf. From there the way to Pendling is signage. At the start, you will cross a field leading to a busy main road. Once the road has been crossed you find yourself on a street named Maistall where the hiking path begins.
There are plenty of signs along the way and several trail splits. You can choose to walk via the Dreibrunnenjoch to the peak of Pendling or hike past a lake called Stimmersee. Simply follow the signs along the way. The paths meet again later and there isn’t much of a difference in terms of hiking length. This is merely an opportunity to hike past the glistening waters of a small lake and a chance to take a dip along the way.
Since this route takes around 5-hours in total some of you might prefer to travel to Thiersee. The best option is to take a taxi or the 4046 bus from the Kufstein Bahnhof for 16-minutes costing € 4. From the Thiersee Pfarrwirt Mitterland bus stop, it is a 20-minute uphill walk to the start of the trail in Thiersee.
Pendling: Hiking To The Best View Of Kufstein From Thiersee.
The faster route is starting right at the Schneeberg Gasthof. There is a parking lot right outside the inn costing € 3 for anyone who has rented a car. The ticket is a voucher. It can be redeemed at the Schneeberg Gasthof for a drink or free use of their toilets.
When facing the building, follow the road to the right of the Gasthof uphill. The path takes you past a couple of wooden houses before leading you into the deep forest.
I suggest following the hiking trails for beautiful meadow views with yellow and pink wild forest flowers instead of the gritty forest road. Either way the hike should take no longer than 1.30 hour one-way.
Mountain Carting.
On the way back down there is an option to follow the signs to Kala Alm. Mountain carts can be rented from there. This is a fun alternative for anyone who wants an adventure. The carts can be returned at the Schneeberg Gasthof from where you have embarked on your hike.
PENDLING: WHAT TO EXPECT FROM HIKING TO THE BEST VIEW OF KUFSTEIN
Whichever path you decide to take the nature along the way is beautiful and peaceful. The hiking paths tend to be quiet. The hike will lead you through abnormally green fields and dense forest. Honestly, I have never seen grass be this bright green anywhere else.
The leaf and needle trees tower high over you whilst ascending to the top of Pendling with the occasional rock walls and small caves along the way. There are a handful of benches to take a break and have a snack whilst taking in the refreshing smell of nature. These spots do not offer a view. However, there are a couple of tree trunks and rocks offering themselves as a place of rest with a view of the Inntal nearer the top.
Once you have reached the first of two wooden crosses you know you are close to the Kufsteiner Haus. Although the last mostly flat stretch does feel like an eternity. Take a short break at the second cross to take in the incredible panoramic view over the valley and the Austrian Alps.
Once you have reached the Gasthaus you can enjoy Austrian cuisine, a refreshing drink, or some Schnaps. You are in Austria after all! A shot of this Austrian alcohol is considered a remedy for pretty much everything here.
For anyone who wants to eat rather than drink there are plenty of options. From traditional cakes and pastries, Jausenbrot which is a platter of meat with bread, to main dishes such as the famous Wiener Schnitzel. If you wish you could even stay overnight at the Kufsteiner Haus on top of Pendling.
PENDLING: REACHING THE BEST VIEW OF KUFSTEIN BY MOUNTAIN BIKE
Up for a challenge? This ride is not for the faint-hearted. The incline is steep and the up to 5-hour ride is strenuous. But you will be rewarded with beautiful views along the way.
You might have already noticed that guided tours are non-existent in Austria. The route is the same as if you where to hike. Mountain bikes can be rented from Inn Bike next to the prominent fort towering over the city of Kufstein. Prices start from € 19.
PENDLING IN WINTER
Rodeln is a popular activity amongst Austrians who have grown up in the Alps. Yes, not all Austrians had the privilege of growing up surrounded by majestic mountains.
In winter the forest road leading up to the top of the peak turns into a sledge run. To join this fun activity, you have to embark on a 1.15-hour trek starting at Schneeberg Gasthof in Thiersee. You are at the start of the sledge run once you have reached the Kala Alm hut. A traffic light will signal if it is safe to proceed the well-lit 3-kilometre sledge ride down to the valley.
Sledges can be rented for a cost of € 3,00 for a single sledge and € 5,00 for a double from the Kala Alm. Without any prior experience, sledging can be frustrating. Most people tend to guide their sledge into the snow walls A LOT. I suggest taking a double sledge if you are a beginner. Then you will at least have someone to laugh with during the bumper car-like experience.
The sledges can be returned at the bottom of the path at Gasthof Schneeberg. Bear in mind that the sledge run is closed on Mondays and public holidays.
WHERE TO STAY
There are no hostels in this area hence staying in Kufstein and the surrounding villages does not come cheap. Your only options are hotels, Gasthäuser, or an Airbnb.
Hotel Gisela.
Your cheapest option in Kufstein at around € 50 other than an Airbnb is Hotel Gisela. This hotel is situated right in the town centre and there is an option for breakfast.
Schneeberg Gasthof.
This inn is conveniently located at the start of the trail in Thiersee and proximity to Thiersee lake. The cost for a room is as cheap as € 32 a night.
Kufsteiner Haus.
Have you not had enough of the best view of Kufstein after hiking Pendling? Then stay the night at the hut on top of the mountain towering over the town. A night costs € 38 including breakfast and their food is delicious.
WHAT TO PACK
Make sure to bring 1 – 2 L of water, sun cream, and snacks. Wear hiking gear and most importantly check your body for ticks after the hike. There is a high amount of these animals living in the grass and they carry many diseases.
Did I do a good job of sharing my love for this mountain? Also, did I mention that I love Sachertorte? Still no clue what it is? Sachertorte is a traditional Austrian chocolate cake with a thin apricot jam layer, often served with whipped cream. It’s bloody delicious!
Now go ahead and explore! Try not to lose your towel.
Hello Anabel,
Thank you for you great tip! We liked the hike! One thing: the mountain carts are not there anymore unfortenately.
Have a nice day