The Magnesite mine Tux: Where it all began

Mining History 50 Years After Closure

A breathtaking panoramic hike to what was once Europe’s highest-altitude mine. Even before the first tourists arrived in the valley, the discovery of magnesite deposits marked the beginning of the most significant era in the economic development of the Tux Valley. Up to 400 people earned their living by mining and smelting this refractory rock. We hike from Vorderlanersbach to the Schrofenalm and visit the Barbara Chapel, featuring a fresco by the Tyrolean painter Max Weiler. Here we learn more about the former mining settlement, which, in addition to residential buildings, also included an elementary school, a cafeteria, a department store, a movie theater, a swimming pool, and a ski lift. After a leisurely stop at the Penkenjoch, the mountain railway takes us back down to the valley.

Good to know:

Character: moderately difficult tour with approx. 850 meters of altitude difference in the ascent

Duration: approx. 4 hrs; of which 2.5 hrs are pure walking time

Dates: 10.07, 17.07, 24.07, 31.07, 07.08, 14.08, 21.08, 28.08, 04.09

Meeting point: 08.50 a.m. | bus stop Rastkogelbahn in Vorderlanersbach

Costs: Adults € 15,00 - Guests of the nature park partner companies, as well as nature park members are free of charge.

Finkenberger Almbahn mountain railway (downhill ride): €25 – must be purchased separately

General information:

Refreshment stops: Please bring a snack! Inns at Penkenjoch (at the end of the tour)

Number of participants: Maximum 9 | Registration absolutely necessary

Arrival (bus line 4104): Departure 08.43 a.m. Lanersbach Tux Center - Arrival 08.46 a.m. Rastkogelbahn

Return journey (bus line 4104): Departure 02.53 p.m. Finkenberger Almbahn - Arrival 03.07 p.m. Lanersbach Tux Center