Maltatal (Malta Valley)

Maltatal (Malta Valley) is located in the state of Carinthia, Austria, within the district of Spittal an der Drau. Maltatal is a large municipality covering 261.92 square kilometers, stretching from the Ankogel Group to the town of Gmünd. It is known for its significant tourism industry, hosting around 120,000 overnight stays annually, with a large portion of the area falling within the Hohe Tauern National Park.

The valley offers diverse outdoor activities, including hiking, skiing, and fishing. A notable attraction is the Fallbach Klettersteig, a via ferrata located along the Fallbach Waterfall, which provides a challenging experience for climbers. Visitors can also explore the Donkey Park, a family-friendly attraction. The local economy is heavily reliant on tourism, supported by a variety of accommodation options.

Historically, the area was settled in pre-Roman times, with the first documented mention of "Malta" occurring between 957 and 992. A somber chapter in its history occurred during World War II, when the valley served as a labor camp for Soviet prisoners of war forced to work in granite quarries. A memorial exists at a nearby chapel to honor those who died under harsh conditions.