Gerlosberg: Alpine Pasture Hikes, Stations of the Cross and Local Delicacies
Accommodation in Gerlosberg
Gerlosberg is characterized by terrain that ranges from sloping to very steep, small hamlets and old farms. If you are looking for a hotel in Gerlosberg, the landscape, history and seasonal activities can help you choose a destination that suits your interests. Specific highlights include the carved Stations of the Cross, hikes to alpine meadows and regional cuisine at the Kreuzwiesenalm.
Landscape and History of Gerlosberg
Today’s farms and hamlets trace their origins to former Schwaighöfe, or alpine farms. Various manorial estates established these farms systematically from the 12th century onward. Gerlosberg was first mentioned in a document in 1237, under the name “Gerlaisperch.” These two historical milestones distinguish the early settlement history from the later development of the townscape.
The Gerlosbach also shapes the area’s geography: it forms Gerlosberg’s southern boundary and flows through a deep gorge toward the Ziller. Old farms, along with the “Maria Opferung” school chapel, are considered local sights. Both the traditional townscape and the chapel are among the things you can discover during a stay in Gerlosberg.
Stations of the Cross and “Maria Opferung” Chapel
The newly carved Stations of the Cross lead from Klammegg to the small Gerlosberg church of “Maria Opferung.” Connecting these two places gives the route a clear destination, distinguishing it from the route to the Kreuzwiesenalm. The chapel is also known as the “Maria Opferung” school chapel and is considered a local sight.
One historical detail concerns access: in 2009, an ornate wrought-iron grille featuring a painted flaming heart was installed in the chapel. This made it possible to enter the chapel during the day at the time.
Hikes and the Schmankerl Trail
In summer, extensive hikes across Gerlosberg’s lush alpine meadows are possible from the Rosenalm, with views of the Zillertal. There is also a hiking trail to the Kreuzwiesenalm that starts at the Hundsbichlhof in Gerlosberg and ends at the alpine hut. These details offer different points of reference: the Rosenalm as a starting point for longer hikes, and a specifically named route between the Hundsbichlhof and the Kreuzwiesenalm.
Another option is the easy Schmankerl Trail No. 11. It leads through fragrant forests and green alpine meadows to the Kreuzwiesenalm SchmankerlhĂĽtte. Along the way, lovingly designed trail signs provide information about culinary specialties from the Zillertal. This trail thus combines the landscape with a culinary theme, while the route from the Hundsbichlhof is described primarily by its named endpoints.
At the Kreuzwiesenalm SchmankerlhĂĽtte, regional specialties such as Kiblmilch, Melchcrmuas, Graukas, Zillertaler Krapfen and Zichna are offered for tasting. Availability may vary by season. The SchmankerlhĂĽtte can also be reached directly via Gerlosberg by mountain bike. The routes to the hut therefore offer different highlights: an easy trail through forests and alpine meadows, and direct access by mountain bike.
Summer and Winter Compared
Seasonal activities offer different highlights. In summer, the focus is on hikes from the Rosenalm across alpine meadows and trails to the Kreuzwiesenalm. In winter, skiers use the alpine areas adjoining Gerlosberg as part of the “Zillertal Arena.” When deciding when to travel, you can therefore consider either the summer hikes or the winter use of the alpine areas.
There is a parking option at the Hundsbichlhof in Gerlosberg for the route to the Kreuzwiesenalm. As parking options may change, it is best to check before your visit.
Discover more destinations: Stummerberg, Hippach, Strass Im Zillertal, Pill, Vomp, Schwaz, FĂĽgenberg, Gallzein.
Back to the main travel overview: Schwaz.
