Aurach Wildlife Park: A Family-Run Attraction in Kitzbühel Since 1972

Aurach Wildlife Park, located above Kitzbühel at approximately 1,100 meters altitude, has operated as a family-owned destination since 1972. The park features a varied animal population, including native red deer, chamois, wildcats, and owls, as well as endangered domestic breeds and exotic species like wallabies and yaks.

The park was established by Alois and Elisabeth Pletzer in 1972 on the historic Branderhof farm, which has been in the same family for nearly 300 years. Originally a cattle and horse farm, the steep terrain presented management challenges. Alois Pletzer sought an alternative to traditional farming, coinciding with a search for a suitable location for a wildlife park near Kitzbühel. The "Tirol" Wildlife Park and the adjacent Branderhofstube inn officially opened that year. Since 1977, the park has been managed as a privately-owned family business.

Currently, Andrea Pletzer-Gasser, along with her partner Mike, manages the wildlife park. The park is home to around 350 animals across 32 species. Visitors can encounter native species such as red deer, ibex, European wildcats, lynx, barn owls, and Tengmalm's owls. Endangered domestic breeds like Mangalitsa pigs and Alpine stone sheep are also present, alongside exotic animals including Bennett's wallabies, llamas, alpacas, snowy owls, and yaks. Many animals roam freely, requiring visitors to stay on designated paths.

Aurach Wildlife Park offers visitors an opportunity to learn about animal behavior while enjoying the scenic Alpine surroundings. The Branderhofstube inn provides traditional local cuisine as part of the visitor experience.