Wattenbach

Wattenbach is a small river in the Austrian Alps. It begins where two mountain streams, Mölsbach and Lizumbach, meet near Lager Walchen at 1,410 metres. From there it flows north through the narrow Wattental valley for 11.5 kilometres before joining the Inn at Wattens. The upper stretch runs through steep meadows and pine forests, while the lower part winds past farmland and scattered houses. The river is recognised for its exceptionally clean water, graded A until it reaches Wattens. Local villages treat their wastewater so the Wattenbach stays clear of most pollution. Yet downstream the Inn still suffers from heavy metals that earlier treatments could not remove. Engineers have built defence walls along the banks to protect villages from flooding, and these have worked well. Visitors walk the Wattental valley path beside the river. The route starts at the meeting point of the two streams and follows the water northwards. Along the way there are wooden bridges and small weirs built for old mills. In summer the banks are lined with wildflowers and the sound of water fills the air. The valley is quiet, with only the occasional hiker or farmer working the land.