Heiterwang am See
Heiterwang am See – a name that stands for many worthwhile leisure activities at the lake and in the region all around it. Summer or winter, sports or relaxation: Right at the northern entrance to the Tiroler Zugspitz Arena, visitors can look forward to diverse holidays in nature all year round.
Facts & figures
- Location: at Lake Heiterwanger See
- Elevation: 994 m
- Districts: Unterdorf, Oberdorf, Bichl, Ennet der Ach and Mühle
- Neighbouring towns: Breitenwang, Reutte, Lermoos, Bichlbach and Berwang
- Highlights:
- Lake Heiterwanger See
- Lake Plansee
- stand-up paddle boarding
- cross-country ski trails
Where is Heiterwang am See?
Heiterwang am See is located at 1,000 metres above sea level and south of the district’s capital of Reutte. It constitutes the northern entrance to the Tiroler Zugspitz Arena and the valley of Zwischentoren – which means “zwischen den Toren” (between the gates) of Fern Pass and Ehrenberger Klause. The municipality is located in the wider part of the valley at Lake Heiterwanger See. A channel connects this clear mountain lake with Lake Plansee.
The name of the town has “am See” (by the lake) in it, which already hints at what Heiterwang is all about. The first part of its name comes from “Ayterwanch” which translates to “meadow of nettles”.
The history of Heiterwang am See
Wherever the sky reflects on the surface of a calm body of water, you usually don’t have to look very far to see some anglers: Because the lake is so rich in fish, it’s a popular location for rod fishing. The rights to fish at Lake Heiterwanger See, however, kept changing ownership. In 1288, Heiterwang am See was first mentioned in official documents as “Ayterwanch”. Thanks to its favourable location near Fern Pass and Reschenpass, it was also an important location for the distribution of goods.
Winter in Heiterwang am See
In winter, Heiterwang am See attracts many cross-country skiers because of its location in the wide valley and its many beautiful and sunny cross-country ski trails. A walk around frozen Lake Heiterwanger See is the perfect way to relax body and mind – and so are snowshoe hikes through Tyrol’s pristine winter landscapes.
Listen up, skiers and snowboarders! Due to Heiterwang am See’s proximity to the ski resorts of the region, you won’t have a hard time finding a great location for fun in the snow. Karlift right in town takes ski tourers to the starting point of many scenic routes.
Summer in Heiterwang am See
What could be better than taking a dip in a cool mountain lake on a hot summer day? Lake Heiterwanger See invites visitors to dive right in or participate in diverse water sports activities – among them, boating, stand-up paddle boarding or rod fishing. Other refreshing activities include diving and boat trips across the lake. The local running and Nordic walking route is yet another wonderful alternative.
By the way: Alongside Lake Plansee, Lake Heiterwanger See is among Tyrol’s clearest and cleanest lakes. Its pristine and picturesque setting is especially popular with relaxation seekers visiting the Tiroler Zugspitz Arena.
Heiterwang am See for families
Families who spend their summer holidays at Lake Heiterwanger See appreciate the large variety of leisure activities you can do. A boat trip or rod fishing, stand-up paddle boarding or a visit to the boats rental: It never gets boring thanks to the many options for adventures you have by the lake and on the water. The playground by the Fischer am See embarkation point is a great location for little guests where they can play and romp around.
Skiing with the whole family: That’s possible in wintery Heiterwang am See thanks to the Karlift right in town. The child-friendly lift facility takes skiers and snowboarders up to two beautiful descents. The cosy mountain hut is perfect for a little break. Alternatively, you’ll be at Berwang-Bichlbach ski resort in no time at all. And how about a leisurely winter hike with the whole family?
Culture & attractions
Lovers of culture and the arts will be amazed by the fascinating history of the “Unsere Liebe Frau” (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
