Brixentaler Ache

The Brixentaler Ache is a river in Tyrol, Austria. It rises as the Brixenbach near Brixen im Thale and flows west through the Brixental, a valley in the Lower Inn Valley. The river is only 26.4 km long but drains a catchment area of 329 km². Two major tributaries, the Windauer Ache and the Kelchsauer Ache, join the river in its short course. The valley narrows between Westendorf and Hopfgarten before widening again near Wörgl. The river’s power comes from its steep descent through gorges and its large tributaries. A weir near Kirchbichl diverts part of the water into a channel feeding a small hydroelectric station. Below the weir, the Luecher Bach joins the main stream from Söll. The river’s wide channel, now around 16 metres across, shapes the landscape of the densely settled Brixental valley. It finally meets the Inn south of Wörgl after flowing through the town. Visitors can follow paths along the river’s banks in the Brixental valley. The route passes through villages like Hopfgarten and Westendorf, where the valley scenery changes from narrow gorges to open plains. Near the power station, the diverted water creates a quieter stretch of river. The broad channel through Wörgl offers views of the surrounding settlements and farmland. The river’s steady flow and the valley’s gentle slopes make it a peaceful place for walking or cycling.