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summer time on the glacier

four seasons on the glacier

Cooling experiences in the warm season

Ice age in summer

The glacier in Sölden shows its most varied side in the summer months. Whether as an excursion destination, a hiking paradise or even for biking and road cycling. Scenic Ötztal Glacier Road - the Eastern Alps’ highest mountain road - leads strikingly on approx. 15 kilometers up to over 2800 meters.

Galcier in summer facts

Rettenbach Glacier (2675 – 3250 m)
Tiefenbach Glacier (2795 – 3249 m)
3 summer mountain lifts in operation: Schwarze Schneidbahn I & II, Tiefenbachbahn
Restaurant Rettenbach Glacier (400 seats)
Restaurant Tiefenbach Glacier (600 seats)
Ötztal Glacier Road: the Eastern Alps’ highest Alpine road with Europe’s highest road tunnel (toll fee for private cars)
Ample parking for cars and coaches
Glacier bus

Cooling off & adventure on the glacier

Your journey into the summery glacier world begins on the Ötztal Glacier Road. Turn after turn, the panoramic road meanders steeply uphill with an average gradient of 11 percent. By the way, the route is considered an ultimate challenge among racing cyclists. Car drivers take it easier and can extensively enjoy the (toll) road through spectacular Rettenbachtal up to Europe's highest road tunnel.

Once at the top, Schwarze Schneidbahn I & II and Tiefenbachbahn mountain gondolas even take you one level higher towards awesome viewing platforms beyond 3000 meters above sea level.

BIG3: Outstanding vista points

The BIG3 are three fabulous viewing platforms on three 3000 meter high peaks that can be accessed by mountain lift. Two of these vantage spots, Schwarze Schneide nature platform at 3340 meters and the literally outstanding Tiefenbachkogl panoramic footbridge at 3250 meters, are located on Sölden’s glacier. Enjoy the view, be amazed and use the mighty backdrop for an Instagram selfie.

Hiking on the glacier

Hikers who are aiming high will find enough opportunities on both Rettenbach Glacier and Tiefenbach Glacier. Thanks to the Ötztal Glacier Road, you can comfortably overcome a large part of the altitude before the real hiking adventure starts on the glacier. Popular hiking routes lead to quaint Braunschweiger Hütte at almost 2800 meters or via a high-elevation trail to the neighboring mountaineering village of Vent.