Located on the border between Bavaria and Tyrol, Kufsteinerland has emerged as a leading destination for a summer coolcation, a trend driven by travelers seeking milder climates instead of sweltering heat. The region offers a refreshing alternative to traditional high-altitude destinations, proving that escaping the heat does not require a flight to Scandinavia. Here, travelers can trade tropical nights for crisp mountain air while exploring a setting defined by crystal-clear springs and historic fortresses.
Where the water flows
One of the region’s standout culinary spots is the Gasthof Blaue Quelle in the village of Erl. The restaurant is situated directly above the Blaue Quelle, a spring that discharges approximately 1,500 liters of drinking water per minute. This unique setting supports a local ecosystem and provides the water for the chef’s menu. Alexander Struth focuses on Tyrolean tradition using ingredients from the surrounding waters and forests. In the summer, the garden offers a romantic atmosphere, while the low wooden ceilings create a cozy feel during the colder months.
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Kufstein is home to the historic Auracher Löchl, a tavern in the Old Town with painted facades and an old-fashioned sign. The establishment features a timber floor and century-old hospitality details. Guests can try traditional Tyrolean dishes like canederli and pork roast alongside modern international influences. The venue offers a unique dining experience on a table suspended over the Römerhofgasse. Additionally, a bar carved into a natural cave below the restaurant houses one of the world’s largest gin collections and hosts a gin tasting dinner on the first Sunday of every month.
Distilling the experience
For a more interactive approach to local flavors, the Gin Tapas Atelier in Kufstein provides a workshop format centered on Mediterranean and Asian-inspired tapas. The highlight of the visit is the opportunity for guests to create their own custom gin by selecting specific botanicals, spices, and aromas. Nearby, the Bierol Brauerei & Biergarten bridges the gap between tradition and modern trends. Located between Kufstein and Schwoich, the brewery serves a range of unfiltered, aromatic IPAs, and stouts. The outdoor beer garden complements these brews with gourmet burgers and local specialties.
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Located in the town of Ebbs, the Unterwirt restaurant offers an elegant take on alpine cuisine. The venue, part of a boutique hotel, emphasizes seasonal menus that highlight local, meter-zero ingredients. While the region is internationally recognized for its Avelignese horses, the focus here remains on the food, utilizing wild herbs and mountain cheeses from regional producers.
The culinary journey concludes at Festungswirtschaft Kufstein, located within the fortress that overlooks the Inn Valley. This historic courtyard, surrounded by ancient walls, serves hearty Tyrolean staples such as goulash and schnitzel. It provides a substantial meal after a day of sightseeing, allowing visitors to recharge before continuing their exploration of the area.
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