The Stubai Alps are one of the most spectacular massifs in the Central Eastern Alps, stretching southwest of Innsbruck between the Brenner Pass, the Ötztal valley and the Passeier region. With massive glaciers, jagged ridges and lush green valleys, this is a mountain destination that rewards every type of traveller — from casual hikers to seasoned alpinists.

The landscape shifts dramatically as you move through the range. The northern sections around Sellraintal and the Kühtai plateau are gentler, perfect for ski touring in winter and relaxed hiking in summer. Head deeper into the Hochstubai area and the scenery turns alpine in the truest sense — permanent snowfields, crevassed glaciers and rocky peaks rising above 3000 metres. The contrast between icy summits and the vivid green of lower valleys is simply breathtaking.

Highlights:

• Zuckerhütl (3507 m) — the highest summit of the Stubai Alps, a classic high-alpine objective for experienced mountaineers
• Stubaier Gletscher — one of Austria's largest glacier ski areas, accessible almost year-round by cable car
• Zischgeles (3004 m) — a popular ski touring peak in the less glaciated northern part of the range
• Kalkkögel — dramatic limestone spires nicknamed the 'Dolomites of Tyrol', great for climbing and photography

Practical info:

• Base towns: Innsbruck, Neustift im Stubaital, Fulpmes
• Trail difficulty: ranges from easy valley walks to demanding glacier routes requiring full alpine gear
• Getting there: by car or STB bus from Innsbruck to Neustift; Innsbruck has a major international rail and air hub

Here is a fascinating detail — the Stubaier Gletscher straddles the Austrian-Italian border, and its highest lift station sits above 3200 m, making it one of the loftiest ski resorts in the entire Eastern Alps.