Nestling between majestic mountains such as the Seekogel and Rostizkogel, the Rifflsee lake is a well-kept secret at 2232 metres above sea level. It is the largest mountain lake in the Ötztal Alps and a popular destination in both summer and winter. In summer there is a one-hour walk around the lake - a great chance to see the rainbow trout and brook trout which live in the lake. In winter there is the family-friendly Rifflsee ski area and a 5km cross-country skiing trail.
A natural jewel high in the Ötztal Alps at well over 2,000 metres above sea level, the Rifflsee lake welcomes hikers in summer and skiers in winter. It can be accessed via cable car in just a few minutes from the Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten in Mandarfen.
The Rifflseebahn cable car leaves just outside the hotel, a few metres from our front door. Another option is to walk up to the lake through the Hirschtal Valley. The hike takes around two hours.
The lake, which is up to 24 metres deep, is fed by water from the Seekarlesferner, Löcherferner and Rifflferner glaciers.
Guests staying at the Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten have pole position when it comes to accessing the ski slopes. Skiers and snowboarders can walk straight from the ski storage room in the hotel to the gondola which whisks them up onto the pistes. The ideal location of our hotel means it is the best place to make the most of your time in the Pitztal Valley.
"There are always flowers for those who want to see them."
(Henri Matisse)
Since summer 2017 visitors to the Rifflsee lake have had the chance to experience Europe's highest rafting adventure.
Every Wednesday and Sunday at 11:00 and 14:00 (as well as Fridays at 13:00) guides set out a trip around the largest lake in the valley.
An exhilarating day out for all the family.
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