A postcard from the Dolomites: Obertilliach is a true Austrian adventure destination
Skiing, hiking, quaint family lodges, farm-to-table dining, saunas - all with the craggy Dolomites towering over you.
Obertilliach: a small farming village home to the largest cross country ski race in Austria
I just returned from my latest adventure - skiing in the Dolomitelauf - the hardest and most mountainous cross country ski race I have ever completed. Read more here about my thrilling experience at the largest cross country ski race in Austria.
Just getting there was an adventure
The travel time to Obertilliach was about 24 hours (with the time change) by car, plane, taxi, bus and van. The roads to the little village of Obertilliach are a thrill in themselves - twisty, narrow roads snake through small alpine villages. Along the way, we crossed into Italy for several kilometers before arriving back into Austria to our final destination.
Obertilliach is located in the East Tyrol region of Austria (about 165 kilometers southeast of Innsbruck) in a high valley nestled on a saddle between the Lienz Dolomites and the Carnic Alps of Italy.
More about the village
Obertilliach is home to about 700 residents and its rich history dates back to the 6th century. Originally settled by the Bavarians, the primary language spoken is German. Many of Its buildings today are original - primarily made of wood and stone.
Below: photos of houses, tourist lodges, the bakery and churches dot the village landscape
A farming community flourishes and supports tourism
Obertilliach and the surrounding communities continue to farm their land, raise cattle, sheep, grow vegetables and more. Local bakeries supply the restaurants and lodges.
An authentic farm-to-table environment permeates the entire village.
Below: our lodge and a sample of the dinners served to us - roasted lamb on the right and goulash with polenta on the left. A strong Italian influence permeates the food offerings.
Below: village farming scenes
Winter and summer activities
Winter enthusiasts enjoy both alpine and cross country skiing - just steps from your lodge door. Over 400 kilometers of cross country ski trails are available as part of the Dolomite Nordicski network. A local bus service is available to pick you up and drop you off at several trailheads/lifts. Topnotch rental outfitters offer both alpine and nordic ski equipment.
The warmer months provide opportunities for hiking on numerous trail networks, including hiking to remote mountain huts.
Below: summer in Obertilliach
Should you wish to visit
As I mentioned above, the travel logistics can be complicated. We flew into Innsbruck, Austria and hopped a bus for about 2.5 hours before finishing with a short shuttle van ride to arrive at our lodge. One can also fly into Venice, Italy, rent a car and drive about three hours. Another option is to fly into Munich, Germany and take a train to Innsbruck. Renting a car is an option but the roads are rather gnarly and the traffic can be intense driving up into the mountains.
Cash is still king in Austria. Many businesses (taxi, etc) prefer Euros over a credit card. A local bank provides access to a 24-hour ATM.
Travel resources
Obertilliach Tourist Information
Cross country skiing in Obertilliach
Hiking in the Lesachtal Valley
Webcams of the Obertilliach valley
Stay tuned for my Dolomitelauf Race report!
Great trip report, Jenn. Now I want to go there!
Looks like a fascinating trip. Can’t wait to read about the race.