Kötschach-Mauthen

Kötschach-Mauthen is a municipality in Carinthia, Austria, located in the Gail Valley (Gailtal), close to the Plöckenpass leading into Italy. This alpine village combines authentic mountain character with a historically strategic position, the pass having been used since Roman times. The parish church of St Leonard, built in late Gothic style, is a notable architectural landmark in the historic centre, alongside traditional half-timbered houses. The region is well known for Gailtaler Speck, an artisanal smoked ham with protected designation status, commonly served in local guesthouses (Gasthöfe). Kötschach-Mauthen serves as a starting point for hiking along the Gailtal high-altitude trail and for accessing the Nassfeld ski area, one of Carinthia's largest, popular for both alpine and cross-country skiing in winter. In summer, outdoor pursuits take centre stage, with hiking, cycling and paragliding all benefiting from the surrounding mountainous setting. The alpine climate, featuring snowy winters and mild summers, supports year-round active tourism in this destination that remains relatively untouched by mass tourism.