Exploring The Austrian Alps: Activities And Adventures

The Austrian Alps are a magical wonderland, offering a range of activities for all seasons. The impressive mountain range sweeps across much of Austria, characterised by rugged granite outcrops, spectacular glaciers and summits over 3,000m.

Innsbruck, the capital of Tyrol, is a great base for exploring the Alps. Take a cable car up to the Nordkette range, or wander through the old town's winding alleys and traditional restaurants.

The Austrian Alps are, of course, well known for skiing. St Anton is part of the largest connected skiing area in Austria and is known worldwide. Sölden, a town in the Ötztal valley, was a shooting location for the James Bond movie Spectre.

But it's not all about winter sports. In summer, there's plenty of opportunity for hiking, biking, and even twirling around meadows à la Julie Andrews in The Sound of Music.

The Austrian Alps are an outdoor lover's paradise.

Skiing and snowboarding

The Austrian Alps are a skier and snowboarder's paradise, with a range of resorts suitable for all skill levels. Here is an overview of some of the top skiing and snowboarding areas in the Austrian Alps:

St. Anton am Arlberg

Part of the largest connected skiing area in Austria, St. Anton is renowned for its reliable snowfall, diverse free-riding options, and lively après-ski bars. The resort offers a wide variety of slopes for beginners and advanced skiers, with a maximum vertical drop of 1,650 meters and a comprehensive network of 305 km of pistes. The nearest airport is Innsbruck, approximately 120 km away.

Kitzbühel

Kitzbühel is a historic ski resort featuring a charming medieval town and world-class skiing. It offers a blend of luxury and tradition, with a vibrant après-ski scene and modern lift systems. The resort boasts a maximum vertical drop of 1,470 meters and has 215 km of pistes, with the highest lift reaching an elevation of 2,000 meters. Kitzbühel is also famous for hosting the legendary Hahnenkamm downhill race. The nearest airport is Salzburg, approximately 80 km away.

Ischgl-Samnaun Ski Area

The Ischgl-Samnaun Ski Area is known for its fantastic runs and efficient lift system. It offers a great ski experience with well-maintained pistes and lifts, including lifts and chairs that quickly get you around the resort.

Serfaus-Fiss-Ladis

Serfaus-Fiss-Ladis is a great option for families, with a mix of skiing, sledding, and gondola rides. It offers a charming alpine atmosphere and is less crowded than some of the other resorts.

Zell am See Kaprun

Zell am See Kaprun is a picturesque ski resort set beside a stunning alpine lake, offering access to the extensive Schmittenhöhe ski area. The resort boasts a maximum vertical drop of 1,200 meters and 138 km of pistes, with the highest lift reaching an elevation of 2,000 meters. The nearest airport is Salzburg, approximately 80 km away.

Hintertuxer Gletscher

Hintertuxer Gletscher offers fantastic snow conditions and pricing, as well as natural beauty. It provides access to the Hintertux Glacier, with snow-sure skiing on 62 km of pistes. The resort boasts a maximum vertical drop of 1,200 meters, and the highest lift reaches an elevation of 3,029 meters. The nearest airport is Salzburg, approximately 90 km away.

Saalbach-Hinterglemm

Saalbach-Hinterglemm is a lively ski resort and part of the expansive Skicircus area, with 270 km of interconnected slopes suitable for all levels. The resort offers modern lift systems, ski schools, and a range of off-slope activities. The maximum vertical drop is 1,003 meters, and the highest lift reaches an elevation of 2,096 meters. The nearest airport is Salzburg, approximately 90 km away.

Nassfeld Ski Resort

The Nassfeld Ski Resort offers a huge area with slopes for all levels, featuring 28 lifts and well-maintained snow.

Obergurgl Hochgurgl Ski Area

The Obergurgl Hochgurgl Ski Area is located at a high altitude, providing a unique skiing experience. It boasts excellent snow conditions and a modern, efficient lift system.

Obertauern Ski Resort

Obertauern Ski Resort is known for its mega-efficient lift system and wonderfully groomed slopes. It offers a mix of blue, red, and black slopes, catering to skiers of all levels.

Mayrhofen - Hippach Im Zillertal

Mayrhofen - Hippach Im Zillertal offers a range of activities, including skiing, snowboarding, and exploring well-signposted trails. You can take a cable car up to the mountains and enjoy the stunning views.

Patscherkofelbahnen

Patscherkofelbahnen provides a comfortable and relaxing gondola experience, with breathtaking views of the surrounding area.

Hintertux Glacier

The Hintertux Glacier offers snow-sure skiing and stunning views. It is a great option for families, with activities such as sledding and exploring the glacier.

Stubaier Gletscher

Stubaier Gletscher is a beautifully laid-out ski area with excellent lifts and well-maintained pistes.

Ellmau Ski Resort and Village

Ellmau Ski Resort and Village offer a range of slopes and a vibrant village atmosphere. However, it can get busy during lunchtime as all the ski schools break at the same time.

Molltaler Gletscher

Molltaler Gletscher is a family-friendly ski resort, catering to beginners and advanced skiers with a variety of slopes.

Snow Space Salzburg - St. Johann

Snow Space

Hiking

Where to Hike in the Austrian Alps

There are numerous hiking trails in the Austrian Alps, catering to hikers of all skill levels. Here are some of the best places to go hiking:

• Innsbruck: Explore the city and the surrounding mountains. Take the cable car up to the Nordkette range, and don't miss the old town with its winding alleys and traditional restaurants.
• Sölden: This town in the Ötztal valley offers early-season skiing and was featured in the James Bond movie Spectre.
• Gesäuse National Park: Located in Styria, this park features deep gorges, limestone formations, and white-water rapids.
• St. Anton: Known as the cradle of alpine skiing, St. Anton is part of Austria's largest connected skiing area and is renowned for its reliable snowfall and diverse free-riding options.
• Werfen: Home to the Sound of Music filming location, Hohenwerfen Fortress, and the huge natural ice cave, Eisriesenwelt.
• Grossglockner High Alpine Road: Completed in 1935, this scenic pass road winds through the Hohe Tauern National Park, offering views of Austria's highest peak, Grossglockner, and the Pasterze Glacier.
• Vorarlberg: Austria's smallest and westernmost state is a haven for cheese lovers, with specialties like Vorarlberger Alpkäse and Montafon Sura Kees.
• Wörthersee: One of Austria's largest lakes, surrounded by forested foothills and offering swimming and stunning views from the top of the Pyramidenkogel viewing platform.
• Saalbach-Hinterglemm: A large ski resort that has expanded its offerings to include mountain biking trails and gravel biking routes in the warmer months.
• Nassfeld: A ski resort in Carinthia with 1,000 km of hiking trails and 950 km of cycling trails. The Millenniumsbahn gondola takes you up into the mountains, offering amazing views.
• Grossarl: Offers 400 km of signposted hiking trails, many leading to one of the 40 mountain huts. Try the Shuhflicker ridge walk or hike to Saukarkopf, one of the most beloved mountains in the area.
• Schruns: A small village in Vorarlberg surrounded by mountains, offering a good selection of snowshoeing trails and winter hiking trails.
• Stuiben Waterfall: A well-designed hiking path leads to several viewing platforms, providing the best vantage points of the waterfall.
• Wilder Kaiser: Located between Innsbruck, Munich, and Salzburg, Wilder Kaiser offers swimming and hiking at Hinterstein Lake in summer and cross-country skiing in winter. Hike to Astbergsee, a small alpine lake with stunning views.
• Adlerweg: Austria's ultimate hiking challenge, spanning 413 kilometres and crossing 7 mountain ranges. It can be adapted to all skill levels, offering both demanding technical sections and easier parts.
• Stubai High Trail: An 80-kilometre loop around the Stubai Valley, featuring breathtaking views of glaciers and towering peaks. It involves walking across steep scree slopes and is considered technically challenging.
• Emperor's Crown Trail: A 65-kilometre loop around the Wilder Kaiser massif, offering moderate difficulty and avoiding highly exposed or technical sections.
• Salzburger Almenweg: A 350-kilometre trail divided into 31 stages, offering a diverse range of hiking experiences, from alpine pastures to challenging ascents.
• Karwendel High Trail: A 6-stage, 60-kilometre hike in the Karwendel Mountains, featuring peak summits, balcony trails, riverside walking, and ascents/descents.
• The Lynx Trail: A 210-kilometre long-distance hike through protected areas, including the Kalkalpen National Park and Gesäuse National Park. It offers a spiritual connection with nature and the chance to explore the habitat of the elusive lynx.
• Lech River Trail: A 125-kilometre certified hiking route that takes you through the unique fauna and panoramic views of the Lechtal Valley.
• Schladminger Tauern High Trail: A challenging multi-day hike offering panoramic views of alpine lakes, mountains, meadows, and waterfalls.
• Venediger High Trail: A 7-day, 50-kilometre trek in Hohe Tauern National Park, featuring a variety of terrains, from rocky paths to glacier crossings.
• Peter Habeler Runde: A 56-kilometre circular trek starting and ending in Vals, dedicated to Austrian mountaineer Peter Habeler. It offers a variety of landscapes, from alpine pastures to barren stone landscapes.

Tips for Hiking in the Austrian Alps

• The trails cater to different skill levels, from easy walks to technically challenging routes. Choose hikes that match your fitness level and hiking experience.
• The hiking season is typically from mid-June to mid-late September. During this time, you can expect blooming nature, longer days, and reasonable temperatures.
• Afternoon storms are common during hot summer days, so check the local weather forecast regularly and plan your hikes accordingly.
• Mountain huts are a familiar sight and offer basic accommodations. Book your stay in advance, especially if you want a private room.
• Most huts offer traditional Austrian food and drinks like beer and schnapps. However, showers may be rain-dependent and are usually not included in the price.
• Carry enough cash, as paying with credit cards is not common in the more remote areas.
• Wear proper hiking shoes or boots that provide support to your ankles.
• Bring a backpack with essential items like a base layer, sports t-shirt, mid-layer, waterproof jacket, and comfortable clothes for the evening.

Relaxing in a spa

The Austrian Alps are home to around 40 thermal spas, where you can soak in the relaxing ambience and benefit from the stress-reducing effects of the mineral-rich waters.

Therme Wien

Europe's largest urban spa offers something for everyone, with creatively designed areas, thermal pools, and activity pools. The spa's landscape is designed to resemble a flowing stream, with cascading water, small waterfalls, and reed beds.

St. Martins Thermal Bath & Lodge

This complex is designed like a snail shell on the edge of Neusiedler See-Seewinkel National Park. It offers indoor and outdoor pools, relaxation rooms, and sunbathing areas on the peninsula of the spa's private lake. There's also a 90-metre-long slide, an activity pool, and an entertainment team to care for children.

Therme Laa

This 4-star superior resort in the heart of the Weinviertel region offers indoor and outdoor pools, brine and massage pools, steam baths, and various types of saunas. The 'Silent Spa' provides a peaceful retreat for adults, while special pools and entertainment programmes cater to children.

AQUA DOME – Tirol Thermal Spa

The outdoor pools resemble glowing spaceships, while the glass-enclosed thermal spa provides stunning views of the Ötztal Alps. The sauna world offers a cosy contrast to the modern architecture, with a loft sauna, earth sauna, and ice cave. There's also a separate area for children, with swimming, sliding, and climbing facilities.

Tauern Spa Hotel & Therme

This spa includes 12 indoor and outdoor pools, 13 different saunas and steam baths, aqua gymnastics, and a relaxation lounge with a fireplace. Teas and fruit juices are provided free of charge.

Nikolaus by AvenidA Panoramic Wellness Suites

This aparthotel in Zell am See offers a sauna, free private parking, free WiFi, and family rooms. Breakfast is highly rated, with plenty of options.

GLEMM by AvenidA Superior Hotel & Residences

This hotel in Saalbach-Hinterglemm features a wellness area with saunas, a heated outdoor pool, and a rest area. It is located in the middle of the mountains, with easy access to slopes, hiking trails, and bike trails.

Carpe Solem Rauris by ALPS RESORTS

Located just 27 km from Zell am See-Kaprun Golf Course, this resort provides access to an indoor pool, a terrace, a lift, an on-site restaurant, free private parking, and free WiFi. The spa and wellness centre include a sauna, steam room, fitness centre, and infinity pool.

Die berge lifestyle-hotel Sölden

This hotel in Sölden offers free bikes, free private parking, an outdoor swimming pool, and a fitness centre. There is also a restaurant, a shared lounge, a sauna, and a hammam. The rooftop pool and saunas are a pleasure after a long day of skiing.

Paragliding

When to Go Paragliding

It is important to plan your trip according to the weather conditions. While summer and spring are ideal for paragliding due to favourable weather, harsh winters may hinder your plans. Therefore, checking the weather forecast before booking is essential.

Where to Go Paragliding

The Austrian Alps boast numerous excellent paragliding locations to suit all skill levels, from beginners to experienced adventurers:

• Tirol is a top choice for paragliding, with the entire region open for this activity. Tirol offers a vast selection of takeoff spots and hosts numerous paragliding events throughout the year, including get-togethers, competitions, expos, and championships. It is also ideal for beginners, providing suitable training and tandem flights with professional gliders.
• Krippenstein features launch sites located at heights of up to 2,100 meters above sea level, offering breathtaking views of Hallstatt and its lake.
• Serfaus-Fiss-Ladis is a popular ski resort area that also provides excellent conditions for paragliding. The Schönjoch ridge, accessible by cable car, is a notable takeoff spot, offering good thermals and a suitable environment for children to experience paragliding.
• Innsbruck caters to both beginners and experienced paragliders, with nearby affordable accommodations in Patsch, Igls, Natters, and Mutters. Professional gliders can even perform acrobatics here, providing an unforgettable experience.
• Zillertal Valley has multiple takeoff spots in the higher mountain regions and is easily accessible via ski lifts in both summer and winter. This valley is renowned for its learning centres, offering tandem flights and courses for aspiring paragliders.
• Salzburg is another excellent destination for paragliding, with professional gliders performing acrobatics amid the stunning backdrop of the Austrian Alps.
• Alpbachtal-Wildschönau features gentle slopes suitable for paragliding year-round. The Markbachjoch ridge, standing at 1,450 meters, is a famous takeoff point known for its suitability for novice paragliders.
• Wilder Kaiser Mountains offer gentle takeoffs, making them ideal for paragliding throughout the year. Two notable takeoff points include the Hohe Salve and Choralpe mountains, with the Hartkaiser mountain also being a good option on days with favourable thermals. This region boasts multiple paragliding centres providing tandem flights for beginners.
• Stubai Valley is renowned for its excellent thermals due to the presence of numerous mountains over 3,000 meters high. This area provides excellent learning opportunities for novices, with resorts offering ski and cable car facilities, making it easily accessible.
• Achensee Lake is situated in a canyon, allowing paragliders to stay airborne for extended periods. The Karwendel range side of the Pertisau region is ideal for amateurs, with a starting point near the top end of the Karwendelbahn Gondola.

When planning your paragliding adventure, it is essential to choose a reputable operator to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Here are some highly-rated paragliding operators in the Austrian Alps:

• Air4You - Tandemfluge: Offers tandem paragliding with video and photo services to capture your flight experience.
• FlyTandem Paragliding: Provides tailored flights to match your desired level of adrenaline, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
• Airtime Austria: Delivers a thrilling paragliding experience with professional tandem flights.
• Gleitschirm-Tandemflug: Known for calm and easy flights, offering a relaxing paragliding journey.
• Flugschule Parafly Stubaital: Located in the Stubai Valley, providing paragliding experiences in this scenic region.
• Tandem Paragliding: Emphasizes the importance of checking weather conditions before booking, ensuring favourable conditions for your flight.
• Flycenter Wilder Kaiser Tandemflights: Offers professional and engaging paragliding experiences with a focus on safety.
• Gleitschirmschule Achensee: Provides relaxing and comfortable flights, earning high recommendations from customers.
• Flug Taxi fun and fly: Promises an adrenaline-filled adventure with professional instructors and offers photos and videos of your flight.
• Twinfly - Tandemflüge: Combines a strong safety mindset with excellent personal engagement, ensuring a memorable paragliding experience.
• Stocky Air Paragliding: Delivers a fun and exciting paragliding adventure with experienced instructors.
• AirXperienceAustria: Offers an amazing experience with friendly and knowledgeable hosts.
• Tandemfliegen Fly Achensee: Provides a smooth and comfortable paragliding journey, accommodating passengers with back problems.
• Fly4you - Tandemfliegen in Karnten: A well-regarded paragliding operator in the Austrian Alps.
• Adventure Service Outdoorsports: Ensures a smooth and well-organised paragliding experience, from booking to the day of your flight.
• Gerlitzen Tandem Paragliding: Accommodates passengers as young as seven years old, making it a family-friendly option.
• Skydance Tandem Paragliding: Provides a fun and thrilling paragliding experience, highly recommended by customers.
• Mountain Fly Private Tours: Specialises in paragliding tours in Austria, ensuring a memorable flight experience.
• Tandem Kurt Paragleitfluege: Offers a comfortable and safe paragliding journey with thorough instructions, making passengers feel at ease.
• Flight School Austriafly: Provides a great paragliding experience with a focus on safety and gracious service.
• FlyMozart Salzburg Tandem Paragliding: A trusted operator for tandem paragliding in the Salzburg region.
• Paragliding Gastein Großarl: A reliable choice for paragliding in the Gastein Großarl area.
• Flugschule Salzburg: Aims to provide an educational and enjoyable paragliding experience, helping you learn how to fly.
• Tandemflug Salzkammergut: A well-established paragliding operator in the Austrian Alps.
• Zillertaler Flugschule: Offers paragliding experiences with stunning views, accommodating schedule changes due to weather conditions.

Visiting fairy-tale towns

Austria is known for its fairy-tale towns, nestled in the heart of the Alps. Here are some enchanting destinations to consider:

• Hallstatt: This charming village, nestled in a valley surrounded by the Austrian Alps, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With its 16th-century alpine houses overflowing with flowers in the summer, Hallstatt looks like something out of a storybook. The town is located on the shore of Lake Hallstatt and offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
• Salzburg: Known as the setting for the famous musical "The Sound of Music", Salzburg is a beautiful city with a rich cultural history. The Old Town, with its Baroque architecture and cobblestone streets, is a must-see. Don't miss the Fortress Hohensalzburg, offering panoramic views of the city.
• Innsbruck: Innsbruck, the capital of Tyrol, is surrounded by majestic mountains. The old town, with its winding alleys and traditional Tyrolean restaurants, is a charming place to explore. Be sure to take the cable car up to the Nordkette range for breathtaking views.
• St. Gilgen: This picturesque village, located on the Wolfgangsee in the "Salzkammergut" region, is known for its wooden balconies and flower-filled planters, adding to its fairy-tale atmosphere. St. Gilgen is also the birthplace of Mozart's mother and has been featured in many films, including "The Sound of Music."
• Bregenz: Bregenz, the capital of the state of Vorarlberg, is located on the shores of Lake Constance, the third-largest lake in the world. It offers a beautiful waterfront promenade, perfect for strolling or jogging, as well as a variety of cultural attractions such as the Vorarlberg Museum. During the summer months, Bregenz hosts a renowned music festival with performances spread across various venues, including a floating stage on the lake.
• Lienz: Lienz is a charming Austrian town with something for everyone. It features a steel roller coaster, the "Osttirodler" or "Alpine Coaster", that twists and turns down the Austrian Alps. There is also a petting zoo, a nature-themed adventure playground, and a climbing park. Additionally, Lienz offers a unique combination of an indoor/outdoor pool, water park, and spa, making it a great destination for families.
• Seefeld: Seefeld is an Alpine town surrounded by the stunning Wetterstein and Karwendel Mountain ranges. It is known for its vibrant nightlife, with bars, restaurants, and even a casino. Seefeld is also a world-renowned cross-country skiing destination, hosting international competitions that combine ski jumping and cross-country skiing.

These towns, with their unique charm and stunning natural surroundings, will surely make you feel like you've stepped into a fairy tale.

Frequently asked questions