Paznaun

Paznaun is a valley in western Tyrol, Austria, stretching southwest from Pians to the Bielerhöhe pass at 2,071 metres. The Trisanna river runs through it, and the Central Eastern Alps surround it, with the Verwall, Samnaun and Silvretta ranges on its northern, south-eastern and south-western sides. Four main villages lie along the valley floor: See at 1,050 metres, Kappl at 1,226 metres, Ischgl at 1,377 metres and Galtür at 1,586 metres. Tourism, especially winter sports, now drives the valley’s economy. Each village has its own ski resort, and Ischgl’s is the best known. The valley has faced natural hazards such as floods, mudslides and avalanches. In August 2005 heavy rain caused widespread flooding that cut off access to several towns. A large avalanche near Ischgl, the Grosstal avalanche, was recorded in 2012. In July 2025 a thunderstorm triggered a mudslide that damaged houses and led the Austrian Armed Forces to evacuate nearly 100 people. During the COVID-19 pandemic the valley’s ski resorts were linked to early outbreaks in Europe, prompting strict quarantine measures. Visitors find a string of alpine villages set against high mountain walls. In winter the ski lifts above Ischgl, Kappl, See and Galtür open long runs and modern lifts. In summer the valley offers walking trails through lush meadows and past mountain lakes. The Trisanna river carves through gorges and waterfalls, and the Bielerhöhe pass provides views of the Silvretta range. The villages retain traditional wooden farmhouses alongside hotels and restaurants.