Orchids can be found on many windowsills. They bloom in all colours, shapes and sizes, one more beautiful than the next. But did you know that orchids can also be found in our local mountain meadows? And there are quite a few: "In the Tiroler Zugspitz Arena alone, there are over 40 orchid species at all altitudes," says Erhard Maroschek. He works for the municipality of Lermoos and is a passionate amateur botanist. And therefore just the right person when it comes to plant tours.
"There's something different to see every time"
"Our orchids generally bloom between May and September. It's all staggered, so no matter when you come, there are always great species to marvel at, such as the lady's slipper or the fly orchid," says Maroschek. However, he is also aware that most hikers are not as well versed in botany as he is. That's why he organises orchid and herb walks every summer, starting at the beginning of June. He then imparts his concentrated knowledge to the participants: about botany, information about nature conservation, why you should never leave the paths when hiking and even the best tips for photographing flowers are included. Every Monday between 10 am and 12 noon, he sets off with the tour participants to explore Tyrol's plant diversity. You can register at the Lermoos Tourist Info Centre up to half an hour in advance and participation is even free with the Zugspitz Arena Bayern-Tirol Card.
He definitely has the perfect location for these tours in Lermoos: according to Maroschek, the most beautiful hotspots are just around the corner, depending on the flowering season, on the Lermoos panoramic circular trail or on the path up to the Brettlalm, which can also be travelled by mountain bike. "Another particularly hot tip is the Wachtersteig, a hiking trail between Lermoos and Biberwier," he reveals. "And in the Ehrwalder Moos, the area between Ehrwald, Lermoos and Biberwier, you can find countless orchids right along the paths."
Colourful orchids and fragrant herbs: Tyrol's plant diversity
But what happens when the orchids are past their prime? "No problem," emphasises Erhard Maroschek. "Then we'll go on a herb hike!" After all, various spices and herbs that we know from our local cuisine also grow in our region. For example, marjoram, thyme or juniper, the blue berries that grow on trees, are easy to find in the Tiroler Zugspitz Arena. Or medicinal herbs such as real valerian, arnica, camomile or mint - they all grow wild here. You just have to know what to look for. And so that this is no longer a problem on the next hiking trip, Erhard Maroschek looks forward to meeting many new faces every Monday, to whom he can show the diversity of plants in Tyrol.
