Matrei in East Tyrol is the largest municipality in the region and is located at the southern foot of the Hohe Tauern. The village of Matrei lies in a broad basin where the Tauern Valley, Isel Valley, and Virgen Valley meet. With the Großvenediger and the Großglockner, two of Austria’s highest and most impressive mountains are located in the surrounding region. Matrei, with its distinctive parish church of St. Alban, lies on the edge of the Hohe Tauern National Park, the largest national park in Austria, and is a central hub in northern East Tyrol. Visitors can learn more about Matrei and the history of its inhabitants at the Matrei Local Heritage Museum.

An exploration of the unique alpine natural landscape of the Hohe Tauern can begin in Matrei: pristine nature and traditional cultural landscapes are home not only to an exceptional diversity of flora and fauna, but also to natural phenomena found only in this form in the Central Alps. Discovering the many facets of water — in the form of glaciers, waterfalls, streams, and mountain lakes — becomes a fascinating journey into the balance of nature. From Matrei, a walk along the educational forest trail through the ancient larch forest of the “Zedlacher Paradies” is highly recommended. Hiking and scenic enjoyment can also be experienced on the Europa Panorama Trail from Matrei to Kals, while a more demanding option is the glacier educational trail starting near the Tauernhaus north of Matrei.

The Tauernhaus is also an ideal destination in winter. Located in a snow-reliable area, it offers a high-altitude cross-country trail and serves as a great starting point for ski touring. Another cross-country skiing paradise can be found in the nearby Defereggental south of Matrei, where trails run through the unspoiled valley from Hopfgarten to St. Anton.

In winter, the snowy backdrop of the majestic Großglockner invites visitors to enjoy skiing on the slopes of the Kals–Matrei ski area (Großglockner Resort). The valley station of the lifts is located in Matrei. From the approximately 110 kilometers of slopes, including freeride areas and a snow park, visitors can enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding peaks of the Hohe Tauern.