E5 Long-Distance Footpath
Everything you need to know about stages, mountain huts and transport in the Pitztal.
The European long-distance walking route E5 links the Atlantic coast of France with the Italian Adriatic. Its most famous section runs right through the heart of the Alps: from Oberstdorf to Merano. Anyone walking the E5 embarks on a journey through all of Europe’s climate zones. From the lush green alpine pastures of the Allgäu, over the rugged rock faces of the Lechtal Alps, to the glaciated giants of the Ötztal and Pitztal Alpine main ridges, before finally arriving in the Mediterranean atmosphere of South Tyrol. It is the ultimate test of endurance, sure-footedness and the will to conquer the Alps under one’s own steam.
Why the Pitztal is the jewel in the crown of the E5
1. The spectacular ‘finale’ on the main Alpine ridge
Whilst other sections often lead through wooded valleys, the Pitztal reveals its unspoilt side. The transition into the Ötztal is the moment when hill walking becomes proper mountaineering. Here, you are closer to the Mittelbergferner glacier than anywhere else on the route.
2. Maximum contrasts in a very small space
The Pitztal valley offers a dramatic landscape that is second to none:
A gentle start: Around Wenns, you’ll hike through idyllic cultivated landscapes and fragrant Swiss stone pine forests.
The alpine wilderness: The deeper you venture into the valley, the steeper the slopes of the Kaunergrat Nature Park rise up.
The world of glaciers: At the end of the valley in Mittelberg, you suddenly find yourself facing a wall of rock and ice – a sight that fills every E5 hiker with awe.
The Pitztal sections of the E5
3. Glacier panorama & culinary delights
The ascent to the Braunschweiger Hütte (2,759 m) is the captivating highlight of your Alpine crossing. Once at the top, the highest hut on the E5 serves up hearty Tyrolean delicacies from a prime vantage point right next to the eternal ice. Whilst you refuel for the rest of the journey, you can enjoy the spectacular view of the giant glaciers.
4. The ‘safety guarantee’ offered by the valley alternative
The Pitztal is one of the few valleys along the E5 that offers a fully-fledged and stunning alternative. If fresh snow is whipping around at the Jöchl or your energy is flagging, you don’t have to cut your Alpine crossing short. The Pitztal Valley Hiking Trail guides you safely through the spectacular mountain landscape and past thundering waterfalls such as the Stuibenfall, so you don’t have to miss out on that E5 experience.
5. Top-class Alpine infrastructure
In the Pitztal, comfort comes along for the hike. The frequent service of the regional buses and the reliable hiking taxis (including luggage transfer) allow for flexible planning. In the evenings, you can recharge your batteries in hiker-friendly accommodation. The local restaurants serve hearty Tyrolean cuisine to perk up tired legs. Everything here is designed so that you can concentrate on what matters most: your walk.
