Located at the junction of the Kalserbach and Ködnitzbach rivers, Kals am Grossglockner is a picturesque town in East Tirol. It is surrounded by spectacular landscapes and takes its name from the 3,798-metre peak of Grossglockner, which is the highest mountain in Austria.
Things to do in Kals am Grossglockner
In the winter months, you can take advantage of the Grossglockner Resort’s downhill runs, which cater to skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels. It is one of the largest ski resorts in East Tirol and offers stunning views across the region’s 3,000-metre-high peaks. Cross-country skiing trails and family-friendly toboggan runs are also available.
History buffs can visit the Church Ruins of St. Peter, which can be found atop a rocky plateau above Kals am Grossglockner. The church is believed to have been built in the 16th century on the site of a pagan place of worship and fell into disrepair after being struck by lightning in the 19th century. Once a popular pilgrimage destination, the church’s walls are all that remain today.
A short drive south of Kals am Grossglockner is the Staniskabach Waterfall, which tumbles around 40 metres down a forested cliff face. It’s located just a stone’s throw from the Steinerne Brücke, an arched stone bridge spanning the gushing waters of the Kalser Bach. Continue south to the village of Kienburg, which is famed for its storied castle ruins.
Getting around Kals am Grossglockner
Kals am Grossglockner is around 2.5 hours’ drive from Innsbruck and the same distance from Salzburg Airport, which has seasonal flights to destinations across Europe. Regular buses travel to Kals am Grossglockner and ski lifts ascend to the surrounding slopes. Renting a car is the most convenient way of getting around the region.