Nature excursions around Innsbruck: Swarovski Crystal Worlds, Alpenzoo and alpine hikes

Swarovski Crystal Worlds

In Wattens, just 15 kilometres from Innsbruck, Swarovski Crystal Worlds draws more than 600,000 visitors every year. This underground museum, originally designed by artist Andre Heller, houses 18 chambers of wonder where crystal meets contemporary art through installations by world-renowned creators. Outside, a landscaped garden dotted with monumental sculptures and a giant-head fountain rounds off this unique sensory experience. The journey from Innsbruck is easy by free shuttle or regional bus.

The Alpenzoo: alpine wildlife within reach

Perched at 750 metres on the heights of the Hungerburg, the Innsbruck Alpenzoo is the highest themed zoo in Europe. It is home to over 2,000 animals from 150 alpine species: brown bears, wolves, lynx, ibex, golden eagles and bearded vultures coexist in enclosures replicating their natural habitat. The zoo also dedicates itself to preserving endangered species such as the bearded vulture, successfully reintroduced into the Alps. It is accessible directly by the Hungerburgbahn funicular, making it a natural stop before heading up to the Nordkette.

Hiking and alpine trails

Innsbruck is an ideal starting point for summer hiking. The Zirbenweg panoramic trail, at 2,000 metres above the Inn Valley, winds for 6 kilometres through the largest stone pine forest in Europe, offering stunning views of the surrounding peaks. For experienced walkers, the Innsbruck Trek is a multi-day route linking mountain huts through flowering meadows and crystal-clear lakes. The Eagle Trail (Adlerweg), stretching 413 kilometres across the Tyrol, also passes through the Innsbruck region and can be hiked in stages.

Area 47: thrills in the great outdoors

An hour's drive away in the Otztal Valley, Area 47 is the largest outdoor adventure park in Austria. Canyoning through limestone gorges, rafting on the Otztaler Ache rapids, dizzying via ferratas and a giant zip line make up an adrenaline-packed programme. The park also features an artificial lake with water slides and swimming areas, perfect for families. From Innsbruck Airport, the Otztal Valley is accessible by car or regional bus, making Area 47 a popular day trip for active travellers.