5 mountain huts that are open in winter

Winter in Tyrol means crunching snow, clear mountain air and peaceful forests. And best of all: at the end of a winter hike, a warm parlour with Tyrolean delicacies awaits. But since many huts are only open in summer, here are 5 reliable tips for places to stop for refreshments that are also open in winter – ideal for winter hikes, snowshoe tours and cosy moments of enjoyment.

1. Rumer Alm – Innsbruck / Karwendel

Altitude: 1,243 m

Starting point: Innsbruck-Rumer Hof (car park)

Walking time: 1 hour 15 minutes – 1 hour 30 minutes

Winter status: One of the mountain huts that are open throughout the winter (check before the season)

The Rumer Alm is one of the most popular winter destinations in the Innsbruck area. The wide forest path is almost always well cleared and offers beautiful views of the Nordkette mountain range along the way. At the top, a warm, wood-panelled parlour awaits – ideal for a cosy break.

Tip: The homemade yeast dumplings are a highlight in winter.

2. Schweinfurter Hütte – Ötztal / Stubaier Alpen

Altitude: 2,028 m

Starting point: Niederthai (car park)

Walking time: 2–2.5 hours

Winter status: Usually open during the winter touring season (check current information)

The Schweinfurter Hut is idyllically located in the Horlachtal, a side valley of the Ötztal. The ascent begins in Niederthai and leads through a wide, wintery high valley at a steady, moderate incline. The route is ideal for winter hikers and snowshoers who want to enjoy a peaceful, impressive landscape.

The hut itself is rustic, warm and offers a cosy lounge – perfect for warming up and refuelling after the climb.

Tip: The atmosphere in the valley at sunset is particularly beautiful.

Note: Challenging winter hike with alpine hazards. Good physical condition and up-to-date information on snow and avalanche conditions are required. Not really suitable for small children.

3. Christlum Alm – Achenkirch / Rofan

Altitude: 1,269 m

Starting point: Christlum ski resort – valley station

Walking time: approx. 45 min

Winter status: Open daily during ski season

The Christlum Alm is one of the easiest winter refuges around Lake Achensee. The groomed winter hiking trail is ideal for families and offers beautiful views of the Achental valley and Lake Achensee along the way. At the top, you will find a cosy parlour and a sunny terrace.

Tip: A hot elderberry punch in the afternoon is particularly delicious here.

4. Potsdamer Hut – Sellraintal Valley / Stubai Alps

Altitude: 2,009 m

Starting point: Sellrain – Tauegert district

Walking time: 2.5–3 hours

Winter status: Open on selected weekends and during the touring season

The Potsdamer Hütte is a real winter adventure: the climb is longer, but the scenery is beautiful. The hut is nestled between high peaks and offers a genuine mountain hut atmosphere – perfect for snowshoe hikers who want to go a little higher.

Tip: in good weather, the view of the Fotschertal valley is particularly impressive.

Note: Challenging winter hike with alpine hazards. Good physical condition and up-to-date information on snow and avalanche conditions are required. Not really suitable for small children.

5. Umbrüggler Alm – Innsbruck / Nordkette

Altitude: 1,123 m

Starting point: Hungerburg (car park or Nordkettenbahn-Hungerburg)

Walking time: 40–55 min

Winter status: Open daily in winter (very reliable)

The Umbrüggler Alm is one of the most popular winter huts in the greater Innsbruck area. The trail leads along a well-cleared winter hiking trail that is quickly accessible even after snowfall. At the top, a modern yet very cosy alpine hut awaits with a magnificent view over Innsbruck and the Inn Valley.

Tip: The cheese dumplings are among the best around Innsbruck.

Practical tips for your winter tour

• Always check opening hours: especially for higher-altitude huts such as Schweinfurter & Potsdamer. You can also stay overnight at these two, which is a very special experience in winter.

• Equipment: winter hiking boots, warm clothing, crampons for icy areas.

• Be aware of avalanche conditions: this applies especially to tours above 1,800 m.

• Start early: winter days are short.