Self-guided walking
6 nights,
hotel-to-hotel
Level: 3
Stretching
Flights
available
8.0Kg CO2e
Printed route
directions
Immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes of the Kitzbuhel Alps, where rustic mountain forests, lush alpine meadows and rolling farmland radiate a sense of peace and invite you to slow down and take it all in. Meanwhile, open panoramic summits offer a true sense of freedom. The perfect setting for an exhilarating Alpine adventure.
Follow the highlights of the long-distance Kitzbuhel Alpine Trail (KAT Walk) from Hopfgarten to St. Ulrich am Pillersee, through an ever-changing landscape where each day brings new and unforgettable highlights. Take in some of the best views in the Tirol from Hohe Salve (1,828 m), experience the vibrant energy of the Hahnenkamm and enjoy the jagged peaks of the Wilder Kaiser from the Kitzbuheler Horn (1,996m). Wander through tranquil side valleys and savour peaceful moments of solitude as you make your way toward the picturesque Pillersee Valley. Let the beauty of nature inspire you at every turn!
At the end of a day's walking, you'll be greeted with a warm welcome at each of our 3 & 4-star hotels. Stay in traditional Tyrolean mountain villages like Hopfgarten and Brixen im Thale, where you'll find charming wooden chalets with flower-adorned balconies and stunning baroque churches. Explore the elegant alpine town of Kitzbuhel with its medieval centre lined with cobbled streets, colourful facades, and boutique shops. Experience the Baroque beauty of St. Johann in Tirol and unwind by the emerald green waters in St. Ulrich am Pillersee.
This route follows a well-marked long-distance alpine trail and features asphalt road, forest and mountain paths. We recommend that you are an experienced hiker used to a variety of terrain with an appropriate level of fitness and sure-footedness. On Day 5, the descent from the Kitzbüheler Horn includes a short, exposed section where a fixed rope is provided for support. You should be confident walking along narrow mountain paths with steep drop-offs, and note that there are brief stretches without a handhold or guide rope. Shortcuts with cable cars to reduce distance, ascent & descent can be taken on all but Day 6.
Nestled in the Kitzbuhel Alps, the 650-year-old market town of Hopfgarten remains a key hub in the Brixental Valley. Its charming center has preserved much of its past and retains a traditional Tyrolean atmosphere.
You stay at 4* Hotel.
4* Hotel, Hopfgarten im Brixental
You will stay in a mixture of 3 & 4-star hotels. The hotels have been carefully selected for their excellent facilities and proximity to routes.
Ascend through forest, meadows and alpine pastures towards Hohe Salve (1,829m), one of Tirol's most spectacular viewpoints featuring the Wilder Kaiser mountain range stretching towards Soll. Alternatively, a gondola ride (payable locally) whisks you up to the beneath the Hohe Salve, followed by a straightforward ascent. At the summit of Hohe Salve you'll find Austria's highest pilgrimage church. The descent leads past the picturesque Salvensee and Filzalmsee lakes, winding along scenic trails. In Hochbrixen, you can either take the gondola (payable locally) down or continue on foot to Brixen im Thale, home to an impressive twin-steepled church.
You stay at 4* Hotel.
4* Hotel, Brixen im Thale
The day's first highlight is the ascent to the Brixenbachalm Alpine inn, following the artistically designed Way of the Cross. From there, the trail winds through open forests and alpine meadows to the picturesque Wiegalm, nestled within an anticline. A short climb leads to the Gaisberg ridge, where the unique geological composition creates a striking contrast in landscape and vegetation-chalk formations, karst terrain, and dense mountain pines. At the summit, a breathtaking 360° panoramic view awaits. The descent through a stunning mixed forest can be shortened with a scenic chairlift ride (payable locally).
You stay at 4* Hotel.
4* Hotel, Kirchberg
Today you follow in the footsteps of the legendary Hahnenkamm ski race route, immersing you in the excitement of the Ski World Cup. Along the famous Streif ski run, informative display boards highlight iconic sections like the Hausbergkante and Mausefalle (with the option to descend by cable car, payable locally). The day concludes in the heart of the Alps' most legendary sporting town: Kitzbuhel!
You stay at 4* Hotel.
4* Hotel, Kitzbühel
This challenging walk takes you over the renowned Kitzbuheler Horn to St. Johann in Tirol, with the option to shorten sections by cable car (payable locally). Panoramic views in every direction, a beautifully maintained Alpine flower garden, and welcoming rest stops make this hike a truly memorable experience. The descent from Kitzbuheler Horn to Harschbichl follows a spectacular and scenic route.
You stay at 3* Hotel.
3* Hotel, St.Johann in Tirol
This scenic and varied walk traverses a secluded plateau with karst formations, alpine pastures, and panoramic views. Starting in St. Johann in Tirol, you pass through forests and meadows, climbing toward Baumooskogel via Kalkstein and Adlerspoint. The trail leads through areas of mountain pines and diverse mixed forests mountain pine terrain to its highest point (1,550m), then descends past Gerstbergalm and the rustic Winterstelleralm, an ideal spot for a Tyrolean meal. The final stretch follows alpine paths and forest roads down to St. Ulrich am Pillersee.
You stay at 3* Hotel.
3* Hotel, St. Ulrich am Pillersee
These tour prices are per person, based on two people sharing. Single supplement from £158.
We can book your flights, protected by ATOL and ABTA. Please ask at time of enquiry.
If you choose a flight inclusive package with us, you will fly into Munich airport, with onward rail included.
We hold an ATOL License and are fully ABTA bonded, so you can book your flights with us in confidence. We can book most airlines and will advise you of your most convenient airport and flight options.
Flight prices vary massively and change quickly. At Headwater we will sell you your flights at the same price you can buy them yourself. We simply add £35 per person to cover your flight protection, to learn more please click here.
Subject to availability and dependent on service provider, please ask at time of enquiry and book early to avoid disappointment.
Self-guided walking
6 nights,
hotel-to-hotel
Level: 3
Stretching
Flights
available
8.0Kg CO2e
Printed route
directions
