On the trail of wildlife with Christoph
When the day slowly begins in the valley, you are already on your way. Together with Christoph, you head into the wildlife area to observe animals where they feel at home: in the mountains surrounding Hohe Tauern National Park.
Between 1,600 and 2,000 metres above sea level, you can gain fascinating insights into the alpine world of wildlife. With a little patience, you may spot red deer, roe deer, chamois and marmots in their natural habitat. It is an experience that takes time, and that is precisely why it stays with you for so long.
The area covers around 500 hectares and lies in the heart of the Alps. Together with Christoph, you make your way into the mountains and experience a wildlife walk where speed is not what matters. You observe, listen and take your time to connect with nature.
Depending on the time of year, the day begins very early. In return, you are rewarded with a special atmosphere: crisp mountain air, the first rays of sunlight and the quiet anticipation of what might happen next.
What you can see
Various wild animals live in the wildlife area and can be spotted with a little luck.
- Red deer
Seeing a red deer in the mountains and in its natural habitat is one of the special moments of wildlife watching. - Roe deer
Roe deer can also be spotted in the area. If you remain quiet and observant, you may discover them where you least expect them. - Chamois
Chamois feel at home in the steep mountain areas of the Alps. Together with Christoph, you will learn more about their habitat and the surrounding landscape. - Marmots
Spotting marmots takes patience. When one finally emerges from its burrow, it makes the moment all the more rewarding. - Foxes and badgers
Seeing a fox or badger is a matter of luck. This uncertainty is part of the experience. After all, wildlife cannot be planned.
“For me, hunting begins with respect for wildlife and nature.”
What does a typical day look like?
What do you need for wildlife watching?
Christoph: the fourth generation
Hunting has been part of life in the mountains for the Innerhofer family for four generations. Christoph continues this tradition and knows the wildlife area around the Smaragdhotel Tauernblick very well.
For him, hunting is above all about spending time outdoors, observing nature closely and understanding how everything is connected. The wildlife area requires time, peace and patience. When you accompany Christoph, he gives you a personal insight into this special world and shows you the mountains from a completely different perspective.
Respect for wildlife and its habitat comes first for Christoph. He shows his guests what matters when observing animals and why, in nature, it is sometimes best to simply pause and wait.
