Maria Waldrast, Monastery in Mühlbachl, Austria
Maria Waldrast is a monastery in the Austrian Alps, sitting at around 5,380 feet (1,640 m) between the Stubaital and Wipptal valleys, directly below the Serles peak. It is one of the highest-placed monasteries in Tyrol and includes a church, guest rooms, and a guesthouse restaurant.
The site's story began in 1407, when two shepherds found a statue of Mary here, and the place gradually became a destination for pilgrims. The monastery was formally established in 1621 by the Servite order to receive the growing number of visitors.
The pilgrimage to Maria Waldrast is still active today, with people walking up the mountain paths to venerate the sacred image of Mary kept inside the church. The Servite monks who run the monastery hold regular services that visitors are welcome to attend.
The monastery is reached by a mountain road from Matrei am Brenner, which can be snow-covered in winter, so winter tires or chains are a good idea for that season. Those arriving on foot should wear sturdy shoes, as the paths up are steep and can be rocky in places.
A natural spring called the Marienbrunnen flows on the monastery grounds and has been part of the pilgrimage tradition for centuries, with some visitors collecting its water for its reputed healing properties. The spring is freely accessible and sits just beside the church.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
