Maria Waldrast Pilgrimage Site
Maria Waldrast near Matrei am Brenner is one of the oldest and best-known pilgrimage sites in Tyrol. Surrounded by the impressive mountain scenery of the Serles region, this place combines centuries-old devotion to the Virgin Mary, spirituality, and relaxation. The name Waldrast derives from a small clearing in the forest where travelers and pilgrims used to rest on their way across the mountain passes. According to tradition, on Holy Saturday in 1407, two shepherd boys, Hans and Peter from Mützens, discovered an image of the Virgin Mary inside a hollow larch trunk. The miraculous image was taken to Matrei but returned to the present-day pilgrimage site a few years later. The woodcutter Christian Lusch is said to have had a vision of the Virgin Mary there. She is said to have asked him to build a church at that spot. In 1409, the Bishop of Brixen granted permission for the construction project. In 1429, the image of the Virgin Mary was finally brought back to the mountain in a solemn ceremony—marking the beginning of the pilgrimage to Maria Waldrast.
Today, Maria Waldrast is a popular pilgrimage site and place of spiritual energy in Tyrol. Pilgrims, hikers, nature lovers, and those seeking peace and quiet come here to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and experience the special atmosphere of the place. The Hotel Maria Waldrast also serves as an ideal starting point for hikes in the mountains surrounding the Serles and as a venue for relaxation, seminars, courses, family gatherings, and special celebrations. Behind the historic monastery walls, faith, history, nature, and relaxation come together—making Maria Waldrast a special place in the Wipptal valley.
Holy Masses
Monday–Friday starting at 7:15 a.m.
Saturday at 3:00 p.m.
Sundays and holidays at 9:00 a.m. and 10:30 a.m.
During the summer months (May 1 through September 30), an additional Mass is held at 3:00 p.m.
Phone number for questions regarding Masses, baptisms, and weddings: +43 5273 70464
Waldrast - summer & winter
Maria Waldrast is all about activity and relaxation—and the freedom to simply take a moment to pause.
The Hotel Waldrast Natur Resort is a special starting point, destination, and stopover for active nature lovers, as well as a mindful retreat. In summer, hiking trails, mountain tours, and pilgrimage routes wind through the impressive mountain landscape surrounding the Serles. Maria Waldrast is also a popular stopover for those crossing the Alps on foot or by mountain bike.
In winter, the toboggan run right outside the door, ski tours, snowshoeing, winter hikes, and cross-country skiing invite you to actively experience the snow-covered mountain landscape. And sometimes, the best activity is simply doing nothing: unwinding, taking a deep breath, enjoying the peace and quiet, and experiencing nature with all your senses.
Maria Waldrast stands for activity and relaxation—and for the freedom to simply take a moment to pause.
Family destination
The Waldrast Family Adventure Park in Tyrol offers unforgettable experiences for families—in both summer and winter. Nestled amid the impressive Tyrolean mountains, young and old alike will find a variety of opportunities to play, explore, be active, and enjoy time together. In summer, nature becomes a playground for explorers of all ages, while winter delights visitors with snow, fresh mountain air, and special family moments. Whether it’s a family outing, a vacation with kids, or a day together in the mountains—Waldrast is an adventure for the whole family, no matter the season.
