Imst/Tyrol, July 2025 After an eventful summer full of outdoor adventures and enjoyment of nature, the outdoor region of Imst shows off one of its most beautiful sides in autumn. When the Tyrolean mountains are clad in bright red, warm gold and soft brown tones, a special time of year begins: the quieter but no less impressive outdoor season. Natural gems are rediscovered, the last swims in crystal-clear mountain lakes are enjoyed and classic activities such as hiking become intense experiences - carried by peace, clear air and the colorful backdrop of the autumnal Alpine landscape.
Whether on the seven-lake hike around the historic Starkenberg Panorama Trail or pausing for a moment at the mystical Fernsteinsee lake - Imst invites you to feel the power of nature and take a deep breath. Imst is the perfect retreat in the Alps for anyone seeking tranquillity, wanting to keep moving and be close to nature in autumn.
The seven-lake hike around the Starkenberg panoramic trail
One option for experiencing autumn in Imst close to nature is classic long-distance hiking. The Starkenberg Panorama Trail offers a variety of routes, includes sights of the region, has a historical background and passes through pristine landscapes, sunny mountain ranges and shady gorges. The approximately 70-kilometre route leads from Landeck Castle to Ehrwald and runs through seven stages at an altitude of between 800 and 1,500 meters. The trail picks up on the history of the powerful noble Starkenberg family and connects four castles and fortresses as well as several historic roads and a total of seven lakes, ponds, streams and springs. The colorful mountain world is reflected here and creates a particularly atmospheric and idyllic nature experience.
The Fernsteinsee lake
The sixth section of the hike around the Starkenberg Panorama Trail is the Fernsteinsee lake. With the old Sigmundsburg hunting lodge and Fernstein Castle, this place also has its own history and is a popular excursion destination for hikers, boaters and divers, as Fernsteinsee is one of Europe's diving hotspots. Crystal-clear water and a sea of colors in the forest provide space to relax, arrive and explore at an altitude of 934 meters.
Biking through the Indian summer
Thanks to the central location, many day tours from Imst and around the outdoor region are possible and can be combined with each other - whether as a tough challenge or as a stage of a longer cycling vacation. Those who like it particularly sporty can venture onto classics such as the Timmelsjoch or the Kaunertal Glacier - both are easily accessible from Imst and offer epic experiences on two wheels. Bends, hairpin bends, summit bliss: here you can enjoy sporting challenges through a colorful sea of leaves in pleasant temperatures.
If it does drizzle outside, you can continue indoors
If autumn doesn't show its sunny side, Imst offers a varied alternative program to keep you moving and experience the region. Mountain bike enthusiasts will find ideal conditions in the indoor bike park to hone their technique and stay active. Caving takes you into the fascinating depths of the mountain under expert guidance - a special experience away from the classic hiking trails, as participants end up deep down in the mountain and not at the summit cross as is usually the case. The outdoor region is not called "Climbers Paradise" for nothing, as indoor climbing is also possible here. This keeps the outdoor feeling alive even in changeable weather and the activities varied.