Still today, in the mining town of Schwaz, the silver region of the Inn Valley, you can discover the silver mine of the Middle Ages
Image gallery: Schwaz
Altitude: 535 m a.s.l.
The charming town of Schwaz is the centre of the holiday area Achensee and Karwendel. In the 15th and 16th century, it was the largest mining metropolis throughout Europe due to its rich silver and copper deposits, attracting famous people such as the Fugger, an important European bankers family back then, and the doctor Paracelsus. Witnesses of the lively past are for example the Fugger House, the parish church with two steeples and the late Gothic Trading House.
The town features many highlights: Still today, the small train takes you into the silver mine, and the Schwaz Municipal Museum at Freundsberg Castle tells about the age-old history of the place. Afterwards, you may relax in the knightly ambience of the castle tavern. The old town, however, enchants with its colourful historic buildings, the narrow alleys, where also the Enzenberg Palace with the Town Gallery is located, and the shopping facilities and cosy little bars.
The surroundings of Schwaz are perfect for active holidaymakers. In summer, the outdoor pool on the outskirts opens its doors, and the hiking trails take you up to Mt. Kellerjoch. The view on the Inn Valley is simply breathtaking! Further destinations are the Gartalm (1,848 m a.s.l.) and the Geolsalm Mountain Huts - both very popular especially in high summer, when the alpine roses are in full blossom. In winter, Mt. Kellerjoch turns into a skiing area with 14 km of slopes and the toboggan run Kellerjoch. The Kellerjoch Cable Car takes you comfortably to the starting point...