Whether you’re looking to strap on your skis, scramble up steep slopes with your hiking boots or conquer challenging routes on your mountain bike, the Alpine village of Ischgl is a go-to destination for athletic adventures from A to Z. This classic mountain town, situated in Austria’s Tyrol region, is bustling with adrenaline junkies at any time of year, who spend their days zooming up and down the Verwallk, Samnaun and Silvretta mountains. But while Ischgl is the ideal base for a cheerful mix of sports – and après ski – enthusiasts, you’ll find yourself sharing the ski pistes, cycling paths and hiking routes with considerable crowds of visitors – perhaps even more than you’d like at times.
To supplement your active holiday with off-the-beaten-track day trips with minimal effort, there’s only one thing to do: book a Shuttle Direct airport transfer from Innsbruck to Ischgl. Now, while you may think that this is nothing more than an ordinary ride, you couldn’t be more wrong – this scenic 75-minute transfer will take you past some of the best spots for adrenaline-fuelled fun in Tyrol, allowing you to plan your excursions from the comfort of your seat. Although numerous hidden gems lie along the way, here’s our top pick of tranquil destinations that’ll perfectly complement the lively sports scene of Ischgl.
1. Telfs
A few minutes into your transfer from Innsbruck to Ischgl you’ll whizz past Telfs, a paradise for a broad spectrum of athletics. Although Telfs is the third largest city in Tyrol, it has remained relatively unknown to non-Austrians, making it a playground for those looking for some peace and quiet. Nestled at the base of the Hohe Munde mountain, which soars an impressive 2,662 metres into the sky, this metropolis welcomes powder hounds, hikers and bikers with open arms. But along with taking in the breathtaking views from the mountaintop, those looking to take their athletic holiday to the next level won’t be disappointed: Telfs is equipped with a bowling alley, climbing wall, tennis courts, swimming pools and a gorgeous 18-hole golf course, which is set in a nature reserve. So, why not go outside of your comfort zone and work some new muscle groups?
Top Tip: If you’re a culture enthusiast, the attractions of Telfs are also not to be missed. From Romanesque churches to a Franciscan convent, the city’s man-made wonders tell an authentic story of the city’s past and present.
2. Silz
The next highlight on your transfer from Innsbruck to Ischgl is the town of Silz, which is situated in the idyllic Inntal Valley. This village is not only part of Kühtai, a quaint ski resort with picturesque pistes and an ice skating rink, but also boasts an impressive variety of activities in the summer months. From rafting on the Inn River to climbing and canyoning, the exhilarating sports on offer are sure to make your pulse rise – and are certainly not for the fainthearted! For a more tranquil outing, exploring the Forstmeile, a hiking trail that takes you through the forest of Silzer Pirchet, is your best bet… unless you’d like to try your hand at tennis or miniature golfing.
Top Tip: Bird lovers will also enjoy a visit to the Silzer Innau, which serves as a protected bird habitat for a wide array of species, such as nightingales and sandpipers. Don’t forget your binoculars!
3. Landeck
If you’ve heard of one of the destinations on this list, it’s Landeck. This charming Austrian town is best known for its castle, which is famous for its exhibitions, concerts and local history museum today. No matter whether you’re a culture vulture or not, it’s worth setting foot on this illustrious site, so plan to spend at least an hour exploring the grounds.
Athletic aficionados will be particularly smitten with the hiking opportunities of Landeck, which allow you to explore the region’s dramatic scenery. From gorges to mountains to nature parks, trekking through Landeck and its surrounding area is the epitome of outdoor adventure. In winter, skiing and snowboarding fanatics are also spoilt for choice: Venet, Tobadil and especially Serfaus Fiss Ladis (which connects six skiing regions) cater to a wide range of ages and abilities, and are easily accessible from Landeck. With over 270 kilometres of glistening pistes stretching out in front of you, you won’t know what to sink your skis into first!
Top Tip: If you’re planning a day trip to Landeck, be sure to look into a Tyrol West Card, which makes a variety of discounts and even freebies available to you.
4. Kappl
Shortly before reaching your destination you’ll pass the village of Kappl, ensuring that your journey from Innsbruck to Ischgl will go out with a bang. Located in the delightful Paznauntal Valley, this town is the definition of verdant in the summer months. If you’re looking for a serene hike, the zigzagging hiking trails enable travellers to behold a vibrant array of natural wonders, including pastures (Sessladalpe, Dias-Alpe) and the Riepasee Lake.
The Sunny Mountain Adventure Park, which is nestled into the Dias-Alpe area, is particularly popular among families: after all, what youngster (and young-at-heart parent) wouldn’t enjoy the slides, tyre swings, tree houses and zip lines in summer, and the ski schools, magic carpets and toboggan runs in winter? Since this playground for young and old is merely a 15-minute drive away from Ischgl, you have no excuse for not visiting.
Top Tip: Look out for old-world chapels and churches during your hikes. The chapels of Ruhestein are not only hidden gems, but also give you a genuine glimpse into rural Austria’s history.
From Innsbruck to Ischgl
In the 75 minutes of your transfer from Innsbruck to Ischgl, you won’t experience a dull moment – all you have to do is keep your eyes peeled for the scenic spectacles that’ll unfold in front of you and start planning your athletic day trips. Austrian Alps, here you come!
About Shuttle Direct
For travellers in Europe and North Africa, Shuttle Direct is a household name. This airport transfer provider is the cream of the crop, offering convenience, comfort and great value for money all in one service. Whether you’re looking for a group, shared or private transfer from Innsbruck to Ischgl, a helpful and experienced driver will whisk you from the airport to your destination as quickly and safely as possible. Oh, and why not pick their brain about our favourite locations for active adventures that lie along the route?
NB. This route guide has been compiled as an aid to visiting the region. Your airport transfer service from Innsbruck to Ischgl does not include stops to these destinations.
