Welcome to Pertisau on Lake Achen
On the shores of Lake Achensee lies the village of Pertisau. Picturesquely nestled between the mountains of the Karwendel range to the west and the Rofan range to the east, this is where Tyrol’s largest lake is located. The deep blue of the lake, the idyllic valley setting, and the impressive mountain backdrop captivate visitors to Pertisau. Surrounded by paradise-like hiking areas, Pertisau on Lake Achensee offers a unique mix of sporting activities and relaxing leisure all year round. Pertisau and Lake Achensee are easy to find: 50 kilometers northeast of Innsbruck and 100 kilometers south of Munich, the resort can be conveniently reached by train, plane, or car. Head to Pertisau – it’s worth it!
Pertisau lies right on the edge of the Karwendel Nature Reserve, one of the largest protected areas in the Eastern Alps, the largest nature park in Austria, and home to numerous golden eagles. The rich biodiversity here requires special protection from human impact, but these protected areas also provide visitors with space for relaxation, enjoyment of nature, and learning. Many hiking trails into the Karwendel mountains start in Pertisau. The varied natural landscapes in the valleys and higher elevations feature a diverse range of plant life. Special nature experiences can be found, for example, in the Halltal valley, at the source of the Isar River, or at the Ahornboden. In harmony with this unique natural environment, the general guidelines of the nature park also allow sporting activities such as mountaineering, climbing, and mountain biking. The alpine huts and refuges in the park meet high environmental standards and also offer accommodation for multi-day stays.
A true “invention” from Pertisau is the well-known Tyrolean shale oil. At the beginning of the 20th century, a local man, Martin Albrecht Sr., discovered oil shale on the shores of Lake Achensee, from which shale oil could be extracted. He also found extensive shale deposits in the Bächental valley, where his descendants still produce shale oil today. Shale oil is known for its positive effects, particularly in health applications. In Pertisau itself, visitors can explore the mining tunnel and museum, where, among other things, fossilized remains are displayed. The therapeutic use of Tyrolean shale oil plays an important role in the many wellness hotels in Pertisau, offering guests high-quality experiences focused on well-being, relaxation, and healing.
Numerous attractions around Pertisau make for appealing excursion destinations. Just a few kilometers south of Pertisau, in Seespitz, visitors can enjoy a ride on Europe’s oldest steam-powered cog railway, which runs from there to Jenbach. Those interested in church history will also appreciate the many churches and chapels in the area: in Pertisau itself the Holy Trinity Church, in Achenkirch the parish church, and in Maurach the pilgrimage church of St. Notburga. The associated Notburga Museum in the district of Eben offers insights into the life and work of Saint Notburga. The nearby district capital of Schwaz is also well worth a day trip. Its planetarium, the silver mine, and the Swarovski Crystal Worlds are all easily accessible from Pertisau. The provincial capital Innsbruck, with its old town, the Golden Roof, and the Imperial Palace, is another excellent excursion destination.
Whether wellness or action, relaxation or sport, summer or winter—simply replace “or” with “and,” and you’ll see that Pertisau is exactly the right place. A holiday here is worthwhile all year round, offering a rich variety of experiences.