SO NEAR TO THE ORIGIN. The National Park Hohe Tauern is a sort of Arch Noah for the thousands of species of animals and plants.

It is also an oasis for peace and quiet for the nature enthusiast to relax and discover. The National Park covers some 1.800 km² and is situated in Tirol, Carinthia and the province of Salzburg. With its 200 peaks of more than 3.000 m in height, the visitor senses the majestic power and at the same time absorbs the peaceful setting. Wide glaciers, deep green alpine lakes and imposing waterfalls from glacial waters flowing noisily are a jewel of nature, which distinguishes the area of the Hohe Tauern. Most attractive is also the cultural landscape around the "Tauernmassiv" (the massif of the Tauern Mountains). This area has been formed over the centuries by the local settler in the valleys and up to the pasture regions in unison with nature. Not only the great features impress but also the insignificant aspects wait to be discovered. The impressions deepen on closer knowledge and the National Park Hohe Tauern will most certainly bring you relaxation, recuperation and enjoyment coupled with a unique experience.

National Park Snooper - Children, what else do you want? You are asking if you really can experience that much here, in the mountains of East Tirol? Well, wildlife running free in nature, splashing about, being creative and a lot of fun in the family-friendly hotels is the answer. East Tirol, in summer, offers a colorful and varied program for children of every age. During the summer months children can explore and experience the surroundings of the park with the help of the rangers. They can choose the right program among the many on offer: "Myths and Sagas", "On the tracks of the larch dwarves", "The herbs' witches are around", "From the lives of primitive peoples".

Jagdhausalmen - Austria's oldest alpine pastures. The valley Defereggental in East Tirol is a diamond in the National Park Hohe Tauern. Its three villages Hopfgarten, St. Veit and St. Jakob form one of the most known holiday regions of Austria. The holiday destination north of the Deferegger Alps is proud to still have unspoilt areas that kept mass tourism away. Here, on the so called south balcony of the Alps, you can find the golden eagle hunting, enjoy fresh alpine buttermilk and be spoiled by the friendly local hosts. The valley Defereggental is waiting for you with its special features, such as the "Jagdhausalmen", a kind of ancient alpine farming works in this alpine region. These huts, built of stone, are the oldest in Austria and their existence has already been documented in the 13th century. Deep in the valley you have most beautiful Cembra pine woods. The "Oberhauser Zirbenwald" is the East Alps most famous, and largest enclosed woodland of this type. Details about the valley, its inhabitants and their culture you can learn best from the rangers of the National Park. In summer guided tours are regularly on offer.