Scheffau am Wilden KaiserAustria

The smallest and coziest of the SkiWelt Wilder Kaiser Brixental villages, Scheffau lies at the foot of Wilder Kaiser and functions as a base camp for its popular snowfields. Visit this classic alpine village with chalets nestled under the mountain amid plentiful sunshine and Tirolean beauty.

Scheffau provides direct access to the snowfields of SkiWelt, which offers 174 miles (280 kilometers) of runs, more than 90 lifts and facilities including dozens of refreshment stops. Try the unique cross-country skiing trail in the Scheffau area that is lit up at night for a dramatic trip over these gorgeous ski fields, the Nachtloipe Scheffau. Use this route to reach nearby Soell or Ellmau. Above Scheffau are the beginnings of the renowned Tiroler Adlerweg, which translates as “eagle trail,” an extended hiking path past some of Tirol’s loveliest villages, peaks and views.

The Hintersteinersee is a huge fresh, shining mountain lake, perfect for swimming in summer and pristine and frozen in winter. Gaze into the reflection of the dramatic rocky mountain peaks on its still surface or jump into blue-green water clean enough to drink. Begin or end your hike through the hills here. Have great family fun at KaiserWelt Scheffau, which has obstacle courses, treehouses and its own lake. This theme park is on the Brandstadl mountain at an elevation of 5,400 feet (1.6 kilometers); get here using the ski lift.

In this part of the world it’s a delight to discover the particular alpine brand of wellness, especially using the sparkling waters around Scheffau. Try the Kneipp-Trail for this experience, with a barefoot path, a special “inhalatory facility” where you can breathe fresh air enriched with essential oil of pine and a designated meditation space to be enriched by mountain serenity. The trailhead is next to the village church.

The mountains and fields around Scheffau are popular for cycling and especially appreciated for e-biking. Charging stations are scattered around the area. Try this new mode of transportation as you enjoy the alpine summer.