NiederauWildschönau · Tyrol

Brixental and Kitzbühel Alps

Kelchsau

A quiet side valley near Hopfgarten with old log farmhouses and an alpine chapel

Kelchsau is a village in a side valley south of Hopfgarten im Brixental and belongs to that municipality. It lies at about 820 m in the Kitzbühel Alps and has roughly 750 residents. It is a good choice if you want peace and quiet.

The valley runs more than 10 km southwards before splitting into the Langer Grund and the Kurzer Grund, which reach as far as the main ridge of the Kitzbühel Alps. Around the village you will find traditional log farmhouses, some from the Gothic period, and the Fuchswirt inn dates from the 18th century. The village's small ski area has been closed since 2021.

Kelchsau suits families who enjoy walking, alpine pastures and local dairy products and do not need crowds. In winter you drive to the nearby SkiWelt Wilder Kaiser-Brixental for skiing. From Niederau it is a relaxed drive through the Brixental, ideal for a half-day or day trip. Bring sturdy walking shoes and some food, as facilities along the way are limited. Check the opening times of alpine huts beforehand.

What to see and do

  • Walking in the Langer Grund and Kurzer Grund, the two side valleys leading to the main ridge.
  • The Salven chapel at about 1,829 m, one of the highest churches in Austria, as a mountain-hike goal.
  • The Niederkaser alp with its cheese dairy at the end of the Kurzer Grund (check opening times beforehand).
  • Old log farmhouses and the Fuchswirt inn in the village.
  • In winter, snowshoeing and, about 20 minutes away by car, the SkiWelt pistes.

From Niederau

About 45 minutes by car from Niederau: via Oberau to Wörgl, then through the Brixental to Hopfgarten and into the Kelchsau valley.

Always check times, prices and opening dates with the provider beforehand; they can change.

Frequently asked questions

Is there still a ski area in Kelchsau?

No, the small ski area closed in 2021 for economic reasons. The SkiWelt Wilder Kaiser-Brixental is close by.

What is there to see in Kelchsau?

Old log farmhouses, the Salven chapel at about 1,829 m and the Niederkaser alp with its cheese dairy.

Stay in Niederau Partner

Hotel Wastlhof, partner of Niederau.nl, is a family-run hotel with an indoor and an outdoor pool, wellness and its own riding stables, right in the village. For more places to stay and information you can also contact the Wildschönau tourist office.

To Hotel Wastlhof · Wildschönau tourist office · More about staying in Niederau