Alpaca Calm in Seefeld, Tyrol

Since 2012, many guests in the Olympiaregion Seefeld have been enjoying the fascination of alpacas. Originally from the South American Andes, these animals belong to the camel family and are considered extremely trusting and sensitive. Their relaxed nature and soft fleece make them hugely popular with locals and visitors alike. The Haslwanter family has run the organic alpaca farm in Seefeld since 2012, attracting numerous visitors from all over the world ever since – the reason being that alpacas are anything but a common sight in Tyrol.

Florian Haslwanter took over the farm from his grandparents between 2007 and 2009. The family wanted to create a counterbalance to their stressful everyday life and started out by raising ten alpacas. Cows or sheep were out of the question – it had to be alpacas. Since then they have been managing around seven hectares of woodland and meadow to produce feed for the animals, and the family has also built a large stable.

When the first foals were born, it quickly became clear that the alpacas should become a genuine visitor attraction. So Florian and his wife Nadine decided to enter into an agreement with the tourist board of the Olympiaregion Seefeld to offer guided walks with the animals. Today, more than 30 alpacas live with the family. The alpacas are also popular with companies: team-building seminars are offered to improve cooperation between employees. Animal lovers can likewise join the pasture sessions to watch and stroke the animals.

The figures prove just how well the walks are received. Since the offer became available through the guest card you receive on arrival at your hotel, the ASTORIA RESORT, around 3,500 visitors have come each year. The Haslwanter family also sells special products made from alpaca wool, which is warmer than sheep's wool and does not build up static electricity.

An alpaca walk

A walk with the friendly alpacas lasts around an hour. Before setting off, however, there is time to get to know the animals, which takes about 20 minutes. The alpacas ensure that you find your calm within a very short time.

During these 20 minutes, Florian and Nadine Haslwanter explain the most important facts about these soft-footed animals – for example, that they pose no danger whatsoever to children, since their dentition only includes teeth in the lower jaw.

Once the alpacas are familiar with their visitors, they are fitted with halters and the walk begins through the beautiful Seefeld forest. The route is around two kilometres long, and in winter you even walk by lantern light.

You are very welcome to book a walk with the alpacas too. Simply enquire at reception or at the tourist office by Seefeld in Tirol railway station. Please note that only a limited number of places is available.