Alpine Grand Slam

The Spaniards have the their "Running of the Bulls"…  We've found the Austrian version "Running of the Cows with the clinging of the Bells!"  This year join RTT and guests from all over the world for a once in a lifetime event “Almabtrieb,” a ceremonial cattle drive and festival in the Tyrolean Alpine Region of Austria as well as Oktoberfest!

Day 1: After arrival at the Zillertal Valley mid-day, we instantly immerse into the rugged beauty of the Austrian alpine region and visit the spectacular Krimmler Waterfalls. The cascade of water plunges 1200 feet down a rock wall, creating Austria’s largest waterfall. Enjoy the scenic walk through the forested area at your own pace, take in the beautiful nature and perhaps even stop for a “Alpine-Jause,”, for a traditional Austrian in-between meal snack at one of the restaurants along the route.  

Early evening, we check in to our hotel at the end of the Zillertal Valley close to the famous Hintertuxer Glacier.  The hotel offers you plenty of time to relax and enjoy the wellness area with a sauna and thermal water indoor pool.  Tonight we enjoy a 3-course dinner provided by the Hotels own restaurant.

Day 2: After a hearty Tyrolean breakfast we set out to explore the city of Innsbruck, the celebrated alpine heart of Tyrol.  Our first stop takes us to the stunning Swarovski Crystal World where you can view breathtaking crystal-encrusted art installations, see the “world’s biggest crystal” (137 pounds) and the world’s largest Kaleidoscope.  After exploring the shimmering displays, there will be free time to visit the factory outlet store to purchase crystal jewelry and figurines.

Next, we travel into Innsbruck, and begin with an orientation walk through old town, where our guide will point out the most important sights such as the St. Jacobs Cathedral, Hofburg Imperial Palace and Hofkirche (not included) where a display of 28 larger-than-life-size statues of legendary royal ancestors are shown, including King Arthur of England.

The remainder of the afternoon is yours to explore the town and visit the sites seen during the tour at your own pace. We invite you to visit the famous Swarovski Store, sit down at the well-known Café Sacher and try the famous chocolate cake (not included), or take the hybrid funicular (not included) up to Hungerburg, passing stations designed by architect Zaha Hadid, and ending with a panoramic view over this jewel of a city.  The early evening brings us back to our valley and hotel, we will get our first taste of Austrian hospitality when we attend the opening of the Hintertuxer Oktoberfest only minutes on foot down the road.

Day 3: This morning, we may wake to the distinct ringing of mountain bells and the breathtaking view of the alpine valley, ablaze in autumn splendor. After enjoying a generous Tyrolean breakfast, we set out to partake in the celebration of The Homecoming of the cattle, a time-honored alpine tradition. The cattle that have been grazing on the high alpine pastures all summer, now return in a celebrated parade to the lower farmlands to winter over.  The prized cattle are lovingly adorned in flowers, ribbons and embellished headdresses made of lush bouquets, holy figures, and bells.

The Homecoming is accompanied by the “Hintertuxer – Almabtrieb & Oktoberfest” a colorful festival & farmers market loaded with countless stalls showcasing all the regional specialties such as pine schnapps from local distilleries, farmer’s wares, cheese, charcuterie and more.  Enjoy samples, eat, drink, and purchase your favorites to take home and share. Live Austrian folk music bands offer the perfect ambiance and the opportunity to join in the traditional dances. 

Day 4: After a final Tyrolean breakfast it is time to check out of our hotel. A trip to this region, famous for its dairy production, would not be complete without a visit to a typical Austrian Sennerei (Cheese farm)! Here we will see first-hand how the Tyrolean’s go about making their famous mountain cheese, milk, and butter. After getting our share of tasty samples and perhaps some cheesy souvenir or two to start making our way back home.