Ever feel like the mountains are calling — not for the thrill, but for the calm? That’s exactly how I felt when we decided to escape to Zillertal in summer, nestled in the heart of the Austrian Alps. With no fixed plan (as usual), we packed the camper, brought Buddy along, and chased the sunshine into Mayrhofen Zillertal. What we found? Clear mountain air, panoramic gondola rides (included in the Zillertal Activcard), alpine lakes, and quiet moments that reminded us why we love slow travel so much. Zillertal in summer is a dream for nature lovers, families, and adventurers alike — but what surprised me most was how accessible and dog friendly everything was.
We hiked, we laughed, we ate well, and we slept like babies in a wellness hotel that welcomed dogs with open arms. Whether you’re visiting with kids or a four-legged friend, this valley has something magical to offer.
Table of contents
Day 1 in Zillertal in summer: Riding the Penkenbahn, Hiking to Granatkapelle
Our adventure kicked off in Mayrhofen Zillertal, where we boarded the Penkenbahn — a modern gondola that sweeps you up to jaw-dropping views in just minutes. Once we reached the mountain station, we stepped into a world of dramatic alpine scenery, wooden hiking signs, and fresh pine-scented air.
We chose the Panorama Trail toward the Granatkapelle chapel — an easy yet rewarding hike that’s perfect even for little legs or first-time hikers. The wide gravel paths make it stroller-friendly and dog friendly, and Buddy absolutely loved sniffing every new scent in Zillertal along the way.
Highlights of the Panorama Trail:
- Breathtaking views of the Zillertal Alps on both sides
- The Granatkapelle — a striking modern chapel shaped like a gemstone, glowing from within
- Interactive info panels along the trail (great for kids!)
Trail details: Isskogelbahn to Summit Cross via Erlebnisreichweg & Legend Land
Duration: approx. 2.5 hours | Distance: 5.5 km | Elevation gain: moderate (descent via lift)
Level: Easy to Medium | Type: Scenic alpine path with wide gravel tracks, kid-friendly features, and resting points
This trail was ideal for easing into the region’s hikes without going full throttle on Day 1. No matter your pace, this is a great introduction to what the Mayrhofen Zillertal region has to offer.
It felt good to walk slowly again. To stop for a view without checking the time. And to arrive at the Granatkapelle right as the sun streamed through the clouds — a quiet, grounding moment I’ll never forget.
Dog Friendly Zillertal Wellness Hotel: Hotel Magdalena in Ried
That evening, we checked in to Hotel Magdalena in Ried im Zillertal — and wow, it was love at first sight. Not only was the hotel incredibly comfortable and beautiful, but they celebrate dogs here. There’s a spa, a garden just for pets, and little touches like welcome treats, dog towels, and food bowls in the room. Is your dog dirty from the hike? Every entrance of the hotel has a towel, there is a special washing area for them with products you can use. Our welcome gift? A glass of bubbles & a dog treat bag with home made treats.
After a long shower and a glass of Austrian wine on our terrace, we headed to dinner — a gourmet 5-course menu, all included in the half-board. While we dined, Buddy dozed peacefully beside the table (yes, they even allow dogs in the restaurant area), and we sank into that cozy, blissed-out feeling that only mountain air can give you.
Why we loved Hotel Magdalena:
- Truly dog friendly (not just dog-accepting) hotel in Zillertal
- Spa with mountain views
- Incredible local food and wine pairings
- Soft beds, quiet rooms, and a warm atmosphere
- You can even do yoga with your dog! Or training, or there is a special washing station you can use for after the hikes.
Day 2: From Forest Fun to Alpine Thrills Zillertal in Summer
Waking up at Hotel Magdalena, we opened the curtains to a landscape that felt like a painting. Morning sunlight peeked over the jagged peaks, birds were already singing, and Buddy was wagging his tail, ready for a new day in the Alps.
We started with a short drive to Gerlos, where we took the Isskogelbahn cable car (also included in the Zillertal Activcard) up the mountain. This area felt like a playground for all ages — and honestly, it was hard not to feel like a kid again. Our first adventure? A scenic hike through Latschenland, a nature zone filled with interactive play elements, wooden paths, and fun facts. It’s ideal if you’re traveling with little ones — or just want to keep the little one (🐾 or human!) moving with a sense of wonder.
As we followed the Erlebnisreichweg, the trail revealed panoramic views, alpine flowers in bloom, and whimsical touches like legend-themed installations — all the way up to the summit cross at the top of Isskogel. The final climb felt rewarding, especially with Buddy trotting proudly ahead of us.
Erlebnisreichweg trail
Route: Isskogelbahn mountain station → Erlebnisreichweg → summit cross | Distance: 5.5 km | Duration: 2.5 hours | Elevation gain: ~400 m | Level: Medium | Path: Well-graded gravel and dirt track
And just when we thought the day couldn’t get more exhilarating, we ended it with a wild ride on the Arena Coaster — a mountain rollercoaster that winds through forested hills. Fast, fun, and with just enough thrill to make you laugh the whole way down.
Dinner was relaxed and cozy, back at the hotel — where we made good use of the spa again (seriously, that sauna hits different after a hike) and toasted the day with a glass of Austrian wine.
Day 3: Glaciers & Skiing in summer in Hintertux Glacier
Our final day brought something totally different: a taste of eternal snow.
We drove to Hintertux and took the gondola up to the Panoramaterrasse, where we stood above 3,250 meters, overlooking a surreal world of glaciers, jagged cliffs, and sparkling snow — even in summer. It felt like we were transported back in winter time again, on piste, yet it was still dog friendly and so peaceful. Did you know you can still ski in June in Europe? I for sure didn’t – and it felt so surreal. 20 minutes before, we were still standing in 28 degrees and sun, and then 3 lifts up – there were people skiing.
Later that afternoon, we made our way to Finkenberg and took the Finkenberger Almbahnen cable car up to the mid-station — the starting point of the Moor Nature Trail. This trail, marked as 22B, quickly became one of our favorite experiences of the whole trip. It’s a perfect example of how Zillertal in summer lets you reconnect with nature. We met a lot of beautiful cows as well and they were very curious and friendly.
Buddy loved the shady path and natural springs. We took our time, stopping often to admire the views and read the boards. The trail ends near Vorderlanersbach, where we grabbed a refreshing drink and sat down to reflect on a trip that somehow felt both energizing and grounding.
Trail details: MOAR Nature Trail (Route 22B) → from Finkenberger Almbahn mid-station to Vorderlanersbach | Duration: approx. 1.5 hours | Distance: 7 km | Elevation gain: 680 meters
Level: Medium | Type: Forest trail with mixed gravel and dirt paths, info boards, and stream crossings
A Word on the Zillertal Activcard
If you’re visiting between May and October, the Zillertal Activcard is a must. It gives you:
- Free daily gondola rides (one per day — and yes, dogs are allowed!)
- Entry to public swimming pools
- Free public transport
- Discounts on Zillertal activities and shops
We loved how convenient it made everything — especially with spontaneous weather changes in the Alps. It also made our travel rhythm feel so much more flexible, which aligns perfectly with our way of exploring.
Dog Friendly Zillertal (in summer)
Zillertal in summer is incredibly welcoming for dog owners. From trails and lifts to hotels and restaurants, dogs are part of the experience. Don’t forget to:
- Bring a leash (especially for gondolas and pasture areas)
- Pack water and a bowl
- Look for hotels like Hotel Magdalena that go the extra mile for dogs
How to Get to Zillertal
By Car: We drove from the Netherlands, which gave us the flexibility to explore without time pressure. Zillertal is easily reachable via the A12 if you’re coming from Germany or Innsbruck.
By Train: You can take a train to Jenbach, then hop on the Zillertalbahn to get into the valley.
By Plane: The closest airport is Innsbruck, but Munich is also an option with a longer scenic drive.
FAQ About Visiting Zillertal in Spring/Summer
Absolutely! Most trails, cable cars, and even accommodations (like Hotel Magdalena) welcome dogs with open arms. Just make sure to bring a leash for the gondolas and busy trails.
Yes — if you plan to use at least one gondola per day, it quickly pays off. Plus, it simplifies travel and adds perks like free buses and pool access.
Glacier views, forest hikes, mountain coasters, and family-friendly trails like Erlebnisreichweg and Moor — there’s no shortage of memorable Zillertal activities.
This 3-day trip covers it all: Mayrhofen Zillertal hikes, glacier panoramas, forest trails, and a spa stay. It’s the perfect long-weekend mountain escape.
Definitely! Many of the trails like Latschenland and Erlebnisreichweg are tailored to children. The MOAR trail is more moderate but doable with older kids.
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Until Next Time, Alps… | Zillertal in summer
Zillertal in summer was a trip we hadn’t planned long in advance. And yet, like so many of our favorite adventures, it turned out to be unforgettable. From glacier peaks to forest trails, from spa evenings to mountain coasters, this little corner of the Alps offered more than just activities — it gave us memories.
So, if you’re wondering what to do in Zillertal this summer, consider this your sign. Pack your hiking shoes, grab your Zillertal Activcard, and bring your pup — because this alpine escape is just waiting to be explored. ♥
Related articles about Austria:
- Planning a winter escape instead? Don’t miss our ultimate Zillertal ski adventure for tips on where to stay, ski, and après-ski in style. The region shines all year round!
- A TRAVEL GUIDE TO INNSBRUCK, AUSTRIA: EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW
- THE 10 MOST LUXURIOUS HOTELS IN VIENNA
- EXPERIENCE SERENITY AND LUXURY AT WELLNESS RETREAT HOTEL HELD IN ZILLERTAL
Hi, I’m Lisa, the Dutch blogger behind Dutchbloggeronthemove — a luxury slow travel platform built on the belief that the best journeys happen at a pace that lets you actually remember them.
She has lived in Mallorca for over three years, visited Lake Garda 35+ times since childhood, and spent years exploring South Africa’s wine regions until she knew them the way locals do. She travels with her partner and her Labrador Buddy, and she still returns to her favourite destinations four or more times a year — because one visit is never enough to write about a place honestly.
Everything published here starts from personal experience. That’s the only kind worth reading. ♥
