Overview
Flaming Mountains – The Mountain Fires for the Summer Solstice
Goosebump moments at a UNESCO World Heritage site
The mountain fires for the summer solstice are more than just a spectacle: since 2010, they have been part of the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. Over 300 volunteers work for months on the intricate fire designs, surveying mountain slopes, placing thousands of small fire pits, and creating motifs ranging from hearts and animals to religious and cultural symbols.
Mountain Fires – The Magic of an Ancient Tradition
Once a year, the Tiroler Zugspitz Arena turns magical: at the summer solstice, thousands of small lights transform the slopes around Ehrwald, Lermoos, and Biberwier into glowing works of art. What you see is more than just a beautiful spectacle – it’s living history.
For centuries, the people here have lit their fires on the longest day of the year – once to drive away demons and bless the fields. Today, it has become a fascinating blend of tradition and art.
Over 300 volunteers spend months planning, carrying sacks full of wood and fuel up the steep slopes, and arranging thousands of fire points into one grand design.
This is how hearts, ibex, crosses, or symbols that tell entire stories come to life – a communal creation that lights up not only the mountains, but also the hearts.
“The sun stands at its highest,
the night is short – and suddenly
the mountains are ablaze.”
An evening that touches you deeply
Those who are there can feel it: this evening is different. There’s no bang, no countdown – only the sun slowly setting. Then the first flames appear, winding like a glowing ribbon across the mountainsides. You hear a quiet murmur, maybe music in the distance, but above all, there’s this feeling of awe.
“For me, the mountain fires are a moment when everything comes together: nature, art, tradition, and community,” I often say when guests ask what fascinates me so much about them.
Your guide to the ultimate mountain fire experience
- The perfect view: The most beautiful panoramic view is from the Moos between Lermoos, Ehrwald, and Biberwier – from here, you can see almost all the fire displays at once.
- Combine it with enjoyment: Many inns and hotels offer special menus or small celebrations on this evening – perfect for starting the evening in a relaxed way.
- Just go with the flow: You don’t need a strict plan – sometimes the most beautiful thing is simply to stand, watch, and marvel.
- Date: June 21, 2025, starting around 9:45 pm (in case of bad weather, alternative date one week later)
- Location: Ehrwald, Lermoos & Biberwier – Tiroler Zugspitz Arena
- Cost: Free admission
- Duration: approx. 2 hours
- Parking: Spaces available in Ehrwald & Lermoos (arrive early!)