The Klösterle section features a dedicated north-facing slope that traditionally retains snow longer into the spring than the southern faces of the mountain.
The Gerlitzen Alpe is a designated 'Family Mountain' in Austria, specifically catering to beginners with wide, groomed runs accessible from the Klösterle lift.
The peak elevation of the Gerlitzen reaches 1,911 meters, providing visibility across the border into Slovenia and Italy on clear days.
The mountain is a recognized thermal hotspot, making the Klösterle area a launch point for long-distance paragliding flights.
The Klösterlebahnen is a chairlift system providing direct access to the western slopes of the Gerlitzen Alpe mountain range. It serves as a primary transit point for winter sports enthusiasts and summer hikers operating from the Innerteuchen valley base. The lift ascends from an elevation of approximately 1,000 meters to reach higher alpine plateaus above 1,900 meters. The Gerlitzen mountain is geographically positioned between Lake Ossiach and the Villach basin, offering panoramic views of the Carinthian lake landscape. The area is a hub for paragliding, mountain biking, and skiing, with infrastructure maintained by the Gerlitzen Alpe resort management. Visitors use this specific lift sector to reach the Klösterle ski runs, which are known for their northern exposure and consistent snow quality.
The summit observation point reached at the top of the lift, offering a 360-degree view of the Carinthian Alps.
Check the lift status on the official website before departing, as strong winds can lead to temporary closures of the Klösterle chairlift.
Dress in layers regardless of the season, as temperatures at the 1,900-meter summit can be significantly lower than at the valley station.
Park in the designated zones at the Innerteuchen base to ensure direct access to the ticket counters.
Do not attempt to hike up or down the mountain via the ski slopes during the winter season for safety reasons.
Operates on a seasonal basis; closed during the transition months of late autumn and late spring for maintenance.
Skiers and snowboarders must follow the FIS rules of conduct; hikers are expected to remain on marked trails to protect alpine flora.
