Elferspitze

The Elferspitze is a mountain in the Stubai Alps of Austria, part of the Habicht range. It stands near the Feuersteine where the main ridge splits off and runs north-east to the summit. The true high point, called the Elferkofel, reaches 2505 metres, while the cross on the eastern Elferturm sits at 2499 metres. The Elfer area is served by a modern lift system from Neustift in the Stubai valley. A gondola now carries visitors up to 1790 metres, replacing earlier lifts from Felix Wopfner and Leitner. Below the Elferhütte at 2004 metres a drag lift operates in winter. Walkers usually set off from the Elferhütte, though other routes start from the Innsbrucker Hütte or Pinnistal. Two via ferratas, the Elferkofel route and the Elfer Nordwand, give climbers access to the summits and towers. From the top the view stretches across the Stubai Alps to the Zwölferspitze, a 2562-metre peak linked by the Zwölfernieder col. The Habicht range’s jagged crest frames the horizon, while the Stubai valley lies far below. On clear days the Ötztal peaks appear to the south-west. The Elfer’s lifts and huts make it a practical goal for day-trippers, yet the final climb still rewards effort with wide alpine scenery.