The Wattental is a side valley of the Inn carved deep into the quartz-phyllite rock of the Tux Prealps. It's a place where mountain scenery meets industrial history and outdoor recreation, making it a favourite escape for locals from the Innsbruck area.

The valley is shaped by the Wattenbach stream, whose water power once fuelled the economic rise of Wattens, home to internationally known companies like Swarovski. Lower down, the scattered settlements of Wattenberg and Vögelsberg spread across gentle slopes, while further up the terrain becomes wilder as the valley climbs toward the Wattentaler Lizum. In summer the valley is a popular recreation area with fine views, while the upper reaches feel remote and rugged, partly due to the military training ground located there.

How to get there

• From Wattenberg or Vögelsberg — hiking trail into the valley, moderate difficulty
• Toward the summits of Rotwandspitze, Hirzer and Hahneburger — demanding ascents with outstanding views from valley bases

Practical information

• The upper part of the valley (Mölsberg) lies within the Lizum Walchen military training area and access is restricted
• Once a year, on the first Sunday after Assumption, the training area opens to private vehicles for the Mölsberg Mass

At the head of the valley lies the small Mölssee lake, and each year a memorial mass is held at the summit cross of the Mölsberg for those from the valley who fell in the two world wars.