The Similaun normal route

The Similaun is one of our favourite mountains in the Ötztal Alps. Read on to discover why. 

A walk in the park? Not quite. But if you make your way up the 3,606-metre-high Similaun, you will be rewarded with a panorama that is second to none. The Similaun normal route is a real treat when weather conditions are stable. Fit beginners familiar with ropes, ice axes, and crampons will be delighted with this easy-to-moderate high-altitude hike. Seasoned climbers can tackle it in a day, but it’s a demanding 11-hour, 27-kilometre round trip with 1,700 metres of elevation gain. Splitting the trek into two days provides extra time for recovery and, more importantly, for savouring the mountain scenery.

The journey begins in the mountaineering village of Vent, at an elevation of 1,921 metres, not far from the Alpinhotel Post. From there, it’s a roughly two-and-a-half-hour trek to the Martin-Busch mountain hut at 2,501 metres above sea level, an excellent spot for a well-deserved break. However, we choose to push on for another hour and a half to reach the Similaun mountain hut at 3,019 metres above sea level. Here, a stunning panorama, a hearty three-course dinner, and a comfortable dormitory or shared room await. The Similaun mountain hut has been in our family for many years and is run by Markus Pirpamer and his wife Ulli. With so many personal memories, the Similaun remains one of our most treasured mountains.

After a hearty breakfast, the next day brings our summit attempt. In just two and a half hours, we conquer the final metres of elevation and finally reach the destination of our dreams. We celebrate with a traditional “summit schnapps”, a hearty snack, and ample time to not only capture the breathtaking glacier landscape in photos but also fully experience it with all our senses.

The descent to Vent follows the same route as the ascent – tired but satisfied, with a rucksack full of memories.