Assling extends along both sides of the Alta Val Pusteria and is well-known for its wild animal park
Image gallery: Assling
Altitude: 800 - 1,400 metres a.s.l.
The village of Assling stretches on both sides of the Alta Val Pusteria near Lienz along the Strada del Sole of the Val Pusteria. Only the northern part and a district near the Drava river are inhabited. Assling with its 18 hamlets is the largest municipality of East Tyrol.
This famous holiday resort is particularly appreciated by families with children. One of its main attractions is definitely the wildlife park which is a home to more than 30 different animal species, including lynxes, boars, marmots, chamois and raccoons. The information panels are specifically tailored for children and provide interesting information on the animals living here. Another highlight you should not miss is the Archäologieraum Assling where you can admire the archaeological treasures found in the municipal area. The "Juwelenkragen" of the 12th century is for sure one of the most precious objects.
The leisure centre Freizeitzentrum Vithal is situated near the Drava cycle path and not only features a heated outdoor swimming pool but also an adventure playground with a Funcourt (a multi-purpose games court), tennis courts and a bar. A thrilling adventure for the whole family is the alpine coaster. In winter, the ski areas of Zettersfeld and Hochstein near Lienz are easily accessible by the Compedal ski lift whose valley station lies right in the village centre, or by car in a few minutes. Sports lovers can have fun on the sledge run or on the Compedal Rodelweg, a 4.5 km long sledge route in the hamlet of Bichl.
The parish church of the village is of particular architectural interest. This sacral monument was in fact destroyed in a fire and rebuilt in 1726. Some late Gothic frescoes vouch for the existence of a previous church. Another artistic masterpiece is the winged altar by Friedrich Pacher in the St. Korbinian church in Thal. The most famous inhabitants of Assling are undoubtedly the musician and composer Ignaz Mitterer, downhill skier Irmgard Lukasser and cross-country skier Maria Theurl-Walcher.
