Gurglbach

The Gurglbach is a river in the Austrian state of Tyrol. It rises on the steep rock face of Heiterwand near the village of Nassereith. From there it flows west to east through the valley before reaching Tarrenz, the only settlement it passes entirely through. After Tarrenz the river turns south and continues to Imst. Near Imst it joins the larger Inn river about four kilometres away from the town centre. The Gurglbach is known for its exceptionally clean water, among the cleanest in Tyrol. Its slow and calm flow makes it a quiet waterway compared with faster Alpine streams. The river’s cleanliness reflects the natural state of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Its short length of just over twenty-five kilometres keeps the catchment small and well protected. Visitors find a gentle river winding through open meadows and farmland. The banks are lined with willows and alders rather than steep gorges. Near Tarrenz the river widens into a broad gravel bed where children paddle in summer. The path along the Gurglbach offers flat walking or cycling with views of Heiterwand above. The quiet water and clean air make it a place for short strolls rather than white-water adventures.