Where Tyrolean tradition is a top priority
Even the famous painter and architect Alfons Walde recognised something special about Aurach. Drawn by the peaceful setting and distinctive character of the village, he came here with his easel to capture the striking church on canvas. To this day, the village centre with its domed church tower remains a favourite subject for painters and photographers alike.
Did you know? Aurach is an official hiking village
Aurach at a glance
Much like Jochberg and Kitzbühel, Aurach’s history has been shaped by both mining and farming. Copper was mined near the Kelchalm for centuries before operations finally ceased in 1926.
Originally part of Jochberg, Aurach was granted independence in 1833 and has since been its own municipality. Since 1952, the village has officially carried the name “Aurach bei Kitzbühel”.
Twin town: Aurach am Hongar – Upper Austria
The Aurach Young Farmers’ Association created the AurachERleben walking trail — a scenic route through the peaceful village and surrounding countryside. Along the way, the trail passes numerous ancestral farms that have been family-owned for generations, some for more than 300 years.
AurachERleben follows some of the village’s most beautiful walking paths while sharing insights into Aurach’s history, traditions and natural surroundings. Walkers can learn more about local farms, chapels, mining history, and the region’s flora and fauna along the route.
The Aurach Wildlife Park combines impressive mountain scenery with the chance to experience alpine wildlife up close. Set high above the valley with panoramic views of the Kitzbühel Alps, the park is home to red deer, fallow deer and mouflon within Tirol’s largest open-air enclosure, alongside ibex, lynx, yaks and many other animals. A popular highlight is the daily wildlife feeding time at 2:30 pm.
For children, the petting barn and large “Wildspielpark” playground provide plenty of entertainment. Goats, donkeys, sheep, llamas, miniature Shetland ponies, rabbits and guinea pigs can all be discovered here, while the playground centres around the character “Willi the Wild Boar”.
After exploring the park, visitors can enjoy regional specialities at the cosy Branderhofstube restaurant while taking in the mountain views.
The wildlife park also became known as the main filming location for the TV series “Da wo die Berge sind”, starring Hansi Hinterseer, which was first broadcast in 2000.
… Aurach is home to the Jochberg bumblebees?
… that Aurach is home to Tyrol’s largest open-air enclosure, covering over 40 hectares?
… the Erbhofweg in Aurach passes by some very special farms?
… that Aurach is a certified Austrian Hiking Village (ÖWD)?
… you can cross-country ski all the way to Kitzbühel from here?
… you can have lots of fun on the natural toboggan run here?
… the Gigglingabfahrt is one of the most beautiful natural slopes?
… there is a ski touring area in Aurach?
Aurach in summer
Aurach is situated just five kilometres south of Kitzbühel. In summer, it is nestled within the magnificent hiking area of the Kitzbühel Southern Mountains; in winter, it lies centrally between Jochberg and Kitzbühel in the renowned ski resort.
Cosiness, tranquillity and impressive views characterise the village. This special atmosphere is enjoyed not only by guests, but also by the animal inhabitants of the Aurach Wildlife Park, such as red deer, fallow deer, ibex and many other native species.
Lovingly maintained farms with their small chapels invite you to take relaxing strolls. Quaint inns treat you to traditional Tyrolean specialities as well as award-winning cuisine.
Aurach in winter
Whether you’d like to start your day’s skiing in Jochberg/Pass Thurn or right in Kitzbühel – from Aurach, you can reach the ski area in no time at all on the free ski bus. With the area around the Bichlalm, Aurach also offers a special highlight for ski tourers and off-piste skiers.
The Kelchalm natural toboggan run provides plenty of tobogganing fun in winter, whilst the Aurach curling rink is the place to be. Perfectly groomed cross-country trails, free of charge for guests, offer Nordic winter sports enthusiasts the best conditions. And those who prefer a quieter, perhaps slightly more romantic atmosphere will find relaxation in the snow-covered landscape on cleared winter hiking and walking trails.
