This village of around 4,000 people is located in the Upper Pinzgau district, approximately 35 kilometers from the county seat, Zell am See. This picturesque town at the entrance to emerald-rich Habachtal Valley, in the heart of Hohe Tauern National Park, is flanked by snow-covered 3,000-meter peaks. Surrounded by green countryside and glistening glacial worlds, fruit-cultivation here looks back on a long tradition, something which is also reflected in many regional specialties, such as Bramberg apple juice. After a visit to the Pomarium fruit theme path, a side-trip to the fruit press, where farmers turn their freshly harvested fruit into liquid gold, is also rewarding.
Bramberg museum
At the Bramberg Museum, visitors can explore historic farming tools, a mining exhibition and a demonstration apiary, as well as Austria’s largest mineral collection.
The Habach Valley near Bramberg is considered the most mineral-rich valley in the Hohe Tauern and is home to Europe’s only emerald deposit. During a hike through the valley, treasure hunters of all ages can try their luck – while searching for emeralds, they may discover glittering gemstones of their own. The educational “Emerald Trail” Smaragdweg combines spectacular natural scenery with fascinating insights into the geology and mineralogy of this unique region.
Pure biking pleasure
All around the wild mountain Wildkogel, two-wheeler fans will find a true paradise of signposted routes into quiet side valleys and to peaks with spectacular views. No matter whether it’s muscle-powered or electric – all bikers will find something to suit them in Bramberg, whether it’s a leisurely valley tour or a challenging mountain stage.
Curvaceous carting experience
Directly from the centre of Bramberg, the Emerald Railway takes you up to the Wildkogel high-altitude hiking region at over 2,100 m above sea level. In addition to a breathtaking panorama and numerous (circular) hiking trails with summit success, the 4 km long mountain-cart track provides fun and variety. Three-wheeled carts take you from the mountain station along the winding route to the middle station.
Skiing in the Wildkogel-Arena
The family-friendly Wildkogel Arena offers all winter sports enthusiasts 75 kilometres of perfectly groomed pistes for enjoyable skiing and boarding. Directly from the village, the Emerald Railway takes you up to 2,100 m above sea level quickly and comfortably, where a magnificent view of the many 3,000-metre peaks of the Hohe Tauern awaits you. With its predominantly blue and red pistes, the multi-award-winning ski area on the Wildkogel is ideal for families, beginners and those returning to skiing. Children’s eyes sparkle when they are welcomed by Kogel-Mogel and Kogel-Mia at the summit. But the friendly mascots of the Wildkogel Arena also put on their skis, so keep your eyes peeled to see if you meet them somewhere on the slopes! Funslope and the Family Park provide plenty of action on skis and the youngest skiers can enjoy the first turns in the children’s countries.
For those who prefer to speed down the valley on two runners, fun and action are guaranteed in the evening on the world’s longest illuminated toboggan run (14 kilometres)! The last ascent is at 16:15, but in good weather conditions an extended ascent is possible every Friday until 18:30. Away from the slopes and toboggan run, nature lovers will find a true paradise. On idyllic snowshoe hikes into the quiet side valleys of the Hohe Tauern National Park you can explore the winter wonderland around Bramberg. On guided torchlight walks you can learn a lot about the town and the region. A special highlight are the weekly wildlife observations. With a professional hunter you can hike to a remote show feeding in the Habachtal valley and watch the deer eating their meal at close range.
