Heiterwang am See
Heiterwang am See (Heiterwang at the lake) is idyllically situated between the Lechtal and Ammergau Alps, right next to the Heiterwanger See lake with the very same name. Thus, the name of the village is no coincidence. Together with the Plansee lake (connected by a canal), the Heiterwanger See lake forms the second largest body of water in Tyrol. The combination of mountains and lakes therefore offers ideal conditions for numerous leisure activities, both in summer and winter.
Facts & figures
Where is Heiterwang am See?
South of the district capital of Reutte, the village of Heiterwang am See lies at an altitude of almost 1,000 meters. It is located at the beginning of the valley called Zwischentoren - i.e. “between the gates” of the Fernpass and Ehrenberger Klause. A canal connects the clear mountain lake with the Plansee.
What's the story behind the name Heiterwang? This can be traced back to the term “Ayterwanch”, which can be translated as “nettle meadow”.
The history of Heiterwang am See
The abundance of fish in Lake Heiterwanger See has always been famous and popular with fishermen. However, the ownership of fishing rights has repeatedly passed into other hands. Heiterwang am See first appeared in the history books in 1288 as “Ayterwanch”. Thanks to its favorable location near the Fernpass and the Reschenpass, the village also gained a certain importance as an important location for the distribution of goods.
Winter in Heiterwang am See
In winter, Heiterwang am See is known above all for its many sunny and snowy kilometers of cross-country ski trails thanks to its location in a wide valley basin. Snowshoe hikes through the untouched Tyrolean winter landscape are also particularly popular.
Attention skiers and snowboarders: Thanks to the proximity to the region's seven ski areas, there's plenty of fun to be had on the slopes. The small but excellent Karlift also offers fun on the slopes right in the village! Alternatively, the Berwang-Bichlbach ski arena is not far away.
Winter for families in Heiterwang am See
Skiing with the whole family? That's possible in wintry Heiterwang am See at the Karlift right in the village. The child-friendly lift is great fun for young and old. Take a well-deserved break in the cozy ski hut (Karliftstüberl). Alternatively, the Berwang-Bichlbach ski arena is not far away. The ski arena has also been recognized as a certified Tyrolean family ski area.
How about a winter hike with the whole family? A very special highlight in this regard is the digital adventure trail “Treasure Hunt with Finn”, which is also accessible in winter.
Summer in Heiterwang am See
What could be better on a hot summer's day than cooling off in a mountain lake? Lake Heiterwanger See is ideal for swimming, stand-up paddling, boating and fishing (license required!). A boat trip across the lake is also an absolute highlight. The running and nordic walking route around Lake Heiterwang offers another sporting alternative and great views. Heiterwang is also an ideal starting point for bike tours.
Summe for families in Heiterwang am See
Families appreciate the variety of leisure activities on Lake Heiterwanger See. A boat trip, swimming, stand-up paddling or a visit to the boat hire: thanks to the varied selection of activities on the lake and on the water, there's never a dull moment. The playground at the Fischer am See boat station invites active kids to have fun as well. Another special highlight is the digital adventure trail “Treasure Hunt with Finn”.
Culture, attractions & infrastructure
Lovers of culture and the arts will be amazed by the fascinating history of the “Unsere Liebe Frau Mariä Himmelfahrt” (Our Dear Lady) parish church in Heiterwang am See. The former chapel was first mentioned in official documents in 1423. Today’s church was likely built by Hans Räffl between 1480 and 1490. Large sections of it fell victim to the destruction of the Schmalkaldic War. However, the nave was re-edified in the 16th century – followed by two overall restorations in 1750 and in the 20th century.
Images of Heiterwang am See
