Lyla Lindsey
Summer tobogganing in Austria is a fun activity for the whole family. Tirol is famous for its summer toboggan runs, with tracks winding through lush meadows and shady forests, over tall bridges, around 360° spirals, and banked corners. The one-man or two-man sleds can reach speeds of up to 40km/h, with riders in control of the brakes at all times. Toboggan runs in Austria vary in length, with some as short as 1 kilometre and others, like the Wildkogel Arena in SalzburgerLand, stretching to 14 kilometres. Summer tobogganing is a unique way to experience the beauty of the Austrian landscape, with the alpine wind in your hair and the sun on your face.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Tobogganing in summer | Possible in some regions of Austria |
| Tobogganing in winter | Very popular in Austria |
| Tobogganing in Vienna | Possible in several places, including Jesuitenwiese in the Prater, Coffee house hill in Dehnepark, and Pötzleinsdorf Palace Park |
| Tobogganing in Tirol | Many summer toboggan runs with catchy names such as "Alpine Coaster", "Osttirodler", and "Lauser Sauser" |
| Tobogganing in other Austrian regions | Salzburg, Upper Austria, Lower Austria, Styria, Vorarlberg, and Carinthia also have toboggan runs |
| Tobogganing equipment | Toboggans can be rented at various stations |
| Tobogganing transport | You can get to the top of the run by foot, with a lift, or a "Toboggan Taxi" |
| Tobogganing food | Authentic Austrian food, such as Kaspressknödelsuppe (cheese dumpling soup) and Kaiserschmarren (shredded pancakes with apple sauce and icing sugar), can be enjoyed before the ride |
| Tobogganing speed | One-man or two-man sleds can reach speeds of up to 40 km/h |
| Tobogganing safety | Brakes are available at your fingertips, allowing you to control your speed |
| Tobogganing length | Toboggan runs vary in length, with some relatively short and others offering rides of up to 3.5 kilometers or even 14 kilometers |
What You'll Learn
Tobogganing in Tirol
There are over 80 toboggan runs in Tirol, which can be sorted according to difficulty, length and walking time. The runs wind through lush meadows and shady forests, over tall bridges, up and down rollers, around 360-degree spirals and through banked corners. The sleds can reach speeds of up to 40km/h, but safety always comes first, with brakes at your fingertips.
Tobogganing is a great workout if you choose to walk to the top of the run, but for those with small children or who don't want to walk, there is often a lift or a "Toboggan Taxi" to bring you to the top. At the top, you can usually find an authentic Austrian mountain hut where you can stop for Austrian specialties before heading back down.
Tirol's summer toboggan runs have catchy names such as the "Alpine Coaster", "Osttirodler" and "Lauser Sauser". Some are also open during the winter months. Tirol's longest Alpine Coaster is in Imst and is an impressive 3.5km long.
Night tobogganing is also an option in Tirol, with many floodlit runs to choose from.
Using Roku in Austria: What You Need to Know
You may want to see also
Tobogganing in Salzburg
Salzburg is a great place to go tobogganing, with plenty of options for both beginners and more advanced sledders. Tobogganing is a fun activity for all the family and a great way to experience the beauty of the Austrian mountains in winter.
Where to go
The Salzburger Sportwelt, with its seven vacation resorts of Flachau, Wagrain-Kleinarl, St. Johann, Radstadt, Altenmarkt-Zauchensee, Eben, and Filzmoos, offers a range of toboggan runs suitable for all ages and abilities. The "Gnadenalm" toboggan run in Obertauern is another great option, with a 1.5-kilometres-long run that is floodlit in the evenings.
How to get there
You can reach the toboggan runs by foot, with a lift, or a "Toboggan Taxi", a motorized sledge that can take you and your sled up the mountain.
What to wear
Make sure to wear warm and waterproof clothing, including snow boots and gloves, as you will need to use your feet to steer and brake.
When to go
Tobogganing is a popular winter activity, so the best time to go is between December and February. However, it is worth checking the snow conditions before you go, as some runs may not be open without sufficient snow.
Other things to know
Toboggan rentals are usually available at the entrance to the tracks, and there are often authentic Austrian mountain huts at the top where you can stop for traditional food and drinks.
Driving in Austria: On Which Side of the Road?
You may want to see also
Tobogganing in Vienna
- Jesuitenwiese in the Prater: Home to the oldest wooden slide in the world, this historic wooden tower invites you to a fun sliding party. You are guaranteed to have fun on this 100-metre slide while seated on a burlap sack.
- Coffee house hill in Dehnepark
- Pötzleinsdorf Palace Park
Tobogganing is a great workout, but if you don't want to walk up the hills, you can take a "Toboggan Taxi" to bring you to the top. At the top, you can usually find cosy huts, great food, and breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding areas.
Winter Wonder: Snow in Austria
You may want to see also
Tobogganing in Upper Austria
Tobogganing is a popular pastime in Austria, with most Alpine regions boasting well-developed runs. Upper Austria is no exception, with a variety of toboggan runs to choose from, offering fun for the whole family. Here are some of the best tobogganing spots in the region:
Trockentann Toboggan Run in Bad Goisern
This toboggan run is for the thrill-seekers. Bad Goisern has hosted the world championship for natural toboggan, and the Trockentann run is sure to get the adrenaline pumping.
Zottensberg Natural Toboggan Run
This toboggan run is located in the Pyhrn-Priel holiday region and is illuminated until late, making it perfect for those who want to toboggan under the stars.
Hinterstoder Natural Toboggan Run
The Hinterstoder Natural Toboggan Run is just a short distance from the town centre and is illuminated until 11 pm, making it a great option for evening fun.
Edlbach to Rosenau Toboggan Run
This 1.3 km long natural toboggan run is illuminated and provides a fun challenge for tobogganers of all ages.
Hochsteinalm Toboggan Run
With a length of 3.5 km, this natural toboggan run offers a lengthy and scenic ride through the Upper Austrian countryside.
Frudiger Toboggan Run
Although not an official toboggan run, this 3.5 km-long winter hiking route provides a fun and scenic experience for the whole family.
Hohlenegg Toboggan Run in Ried
This toboggan run offers a unique experience with stunning views of the surrounding area.
Fendels Toboggan Run
The Fendels Toboggan Run is a 4.5 km long run that is easily accessible via a four-person chair lift. It has been awarded the Tyrolean quality seal for natural toboggan runs, ensuring a high-quality experience.
Nauders Toboggan Run
Located in the neighbouring region of Nauders, this 8 km long toboggan run is Tyrol's longest natural toboggan run. The Bergkastel cable car takes tobogganists up to the start, offering a convenient and comfortable way to enjoy the run.
So, whether you're a beginner or an experienced tobogganer, Upper Austria has something for everyone. Get your sleds ready and enjoy the thrill of speeding down these fantastic toboggan runs!
SKF Bearings: Austrian-Made or Not?
You may want to see also
Tobogganing in Lower Austria
Tobogganing is a popular winter activity in Austria, with most Alpine regions offering well-developed runs. Lower Austria is no exception, with a range of tobogganing options suitable for all ages and abilities.
Semmering-Rax Region
The Semmering-Rax region is a great choice for tobogganists, with rapid descents suitable for both children and adults. The Semmering adventure toboggan run is a 3-kilometre natural toboggan run with tunnels and magical lighting effects. It's a great option for families, as it is illuminated in the evening and accessible for small children. The Zauberberg toboggan run is another exciting option in the region, while the toddler-friendly Panhans toboggan run is ideal for those with young children.
Annaberg
Annaberg offers a beautiful natural toboggan run away from the hustle and bustle of the ski area. It takes around 2 hours to reach the top on foot, and toboggans can be rented at the entrance to the tracks.
St. Corona am Wechsel
The Wexl Arena Winter Adventure Land in St. Corona am Wechsel offers a full day of tobogganing fun with the admission price. The adventure arena also has a well-maintained toboggan meadow, and toboggan rental is included in the entrance fee.
Losenheim
The Schneeberg chairlift in Losenheim allows tobogganists to easily reach the Fadensattel, from which two exciting routes lead back to the valley station. Delicious food and drinks, including pizza and coffee, are available at the Pizzeria Alpentaverne.
Hohe Wand Nature Park
The Hohe Wand nature park offers a beautiful toboggan run for the whole family, as well as an adventure playground and animal parks nearby.
Waldviertel
The Waldviertel region is perfect for fun-seeking tobogganists, with a 1,000-metre-long natural toboggan run in Reichenau am Freiwald. Toboggans can be rented from the Haslinger family in the finish area, and there are also perfectly groomed cross-country skiing trails to enjoy.
Mostviertel
The idyllic Mostviertel region offers breathtaking natural toboggan runs that will be the highlight of your holiday. Annaberg, in particular, stands out for its several great outdoor toboggan runs. Don't miss the special treat of floodlit tobogganing every Saturday next to the conveyor belt at Reidl. For a thrilling natural tobogganing experience, check out the 300 and 400-metre runs in Loich im Pielachtal.
German and Austrian Food: Similar or Different?
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
Some popular summer toboggan runs in Austria include the Mieders Alpine Coaster, the Imst Alpine Coaster, and the Walchsee Alpine Slide.
Summer toboggan runs typically involve riding in a toboggan on rails, winding through meadows and forests, over bridges, and around curves and spirals. The rides can reach speeds of up to 40 km/h and offer a thrilling experience for all ages.
Safety is always a priority. Most summer toboggan runs have brakes that allow riders to control their speed and stop if needed. It's important to follow all safety instructions and guidelines provided by the facility.
The height requirements can vary depending on the facility and toboggan type. Some toboggans are designed for one or two people, and there may be minimum height requirements for riders. It's best to check with the specific toboggan run you plan to visit for their height and age restrictions.
It is advisable to consult your doctor or a medical professional before participating in any physical activity, including summer tobogganing, if you have health concerns or conditions that may be affected. They can provide personalized advice and guidance based on your individual needs.
