Austria, with its rich history, spectacular mountain landscapes, and vibrant culture, offers an exciting retreat for adventurers seeking an action-packed escape. This year, we’re calling on you to explore holidays the Austrian Way and experience the unique beauty of the European country’s picturesque regions. Here, we look at six that you should visit.
Photo: Zell am See-Kaprun Tourismus
Zell am See: An Alpine Dreamland
Unravel the enchanting layers of Zell am See-Kaprun, where you’ll find majestic peaks, mountain lakes, and the spectacular Kitzsteinhorn Glacier, which offers snow-based fun even in the heat of summer. This region invites you to experience a range of activities, from mountain yoga and paddle-boarding to lake-basking and fine-dining, all while being surrounded by picture-perfect Alpine peaks.
A truly unique experience to be had in the region is at Sigmund Thun Gorge. Every Monday during the summer months, the gorge is lit up by flaming torches that flank the Klammsee Resevoir. The meeting of rushing water, dancing flames and towering mountains is magical and as a backdrop for a hike it is simply unbeatable. On your way up the gorge, you may even be greeted by the Gorge Witch as she casts her eerie shadow against the rock face.
Photo: Innsbruck Tourismus; Christian Vorhofer
Innsbruck: Imperial Elegance and Natural Beauty
Innsbruck offers the unique prospect of juxtaposing a city escape with a nature retreat. Wander through streets boasting imperial grandeur before taking a quick cable car ride to the towering mountains. Feel the warm, friendly atmosphere as you immerse yourself in relaxing outdoor adventures by day and city life by night.
The perfect way to walk the line between the urban and the natural is with a tour of the Bergisel region. From the city, you can see the Nordkette mountain range. It makes for the most unbelievable backdrop to the elegance and grandeur of the city. Head up into the mountains and you will be amazed by the daring ski jumpers and the story of legendary freedom fighter Andreas Hofer. Look out from the top of the ski-jump complex to the mountains. Whether they are snowcapped, shrouded by clouds or bright summer’s green, they offer the quintessential beauty you would expect from west Austria.
Photo: TVB St. Anton Am Arlberg
St. Anton am Arlberg: Austria’s Adventure Playground
In St. Anton am Arlberg, you can immerse yourself in untouched beauty where exciting adventures await. From scenic hikes and cycling routes to thrilling climbs and kayak tours, here, you can experience the bliss of stepping away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether you’re crossing a cable suspension bridge at Verwall Adventure Valley or experiencing a romantic torch-lit hike, St. Anton am Arlberg is a place where you can create unforgettable moments in nature.
(E)-Bike and Hikes are all the rage in St. Anton am Arlberg, and the alps generally, right now. With the extra power afforded by an e-bike, everyone can discover the hidden gems of the Austrian alps, topped off with a hike up to some of the most scenic view-points in the world. Popular routes include to Schmalzgrubensee, Lang Lake and Sattelkopf. A range of routes with a full spectrum of difficulty can be found on the St. Anton Am Alberg Website.
Photo: Zillertal Tourismus; Tom Klocker Photo
Zillertal: Nature at its Finest
Escape to Zillertal and let nature envelop you in all its glory. This region offers a huge amount of outdoor activities amongst a sea of three-thousanders (mountains over 3,000m high) from hiking and biking to snow fun and even the chance to explore Nature’s Ice Palace in the Hintertux Glacier. Discover the soul of Austria as you delve into local traditions and folklore, award-winning gourmet restaurants, and recharge your batteries on one of 10 summer cable cars that’ll take you to mountaintops the relaxing way.
To get really get up close to the stunning scenery, there are countless via ferratas dotted around this Alpine region. These climbing routes fixed with ladders, ropes and other fixtures are the perfect way to get your adrenaline fix and your fill of mountain views. With routes for absolute beginners, including for the little ones, up to the highest heights, they make for some of the best adventures in the Alps.
Photo: St Johann in Tirol; Mirja Geh Photography
St. Johann in Tirol: Family Adventures in the Heart of the Alps
St. Johann in Tirol offers a serene retreat in the heart of the Alps, promising unforgettable moments and family adventures. Indulge in a range of activities, from leisurely hikes to summit climbs, or simply soak in the sun on a lush meadow.
A particularly mystical hike is through Teufelgasse or the ‘Devil’s Lane’. Supposedly forged by the devil himself, the 4.7 mile hike through this legendary gorge will be spell-bind children and adults alike.
If the mention of hiking has peaked your interest in this magnificent destination, then check out our favourite hikes in the region here.
Photo: Kitzbuehel Tourismus; Die-West
Kitzbühel: The Beating Heart of the Alps
Explore Kitzbühel, the legendary winter destination that thrives vibrantly in the summer. Once the pistes clear, the locals embrace the new season, swapping skis for bikes and hiking boots. Whether seeking serene relaxation under the evergreens or a day packed with action, Kitzbühel delivers a holiday experience for everyone.
With more than 600 miles of hiking trails, there’s something for everyone in the Kitzbühel Alps. From three-course culinary hikes to the iconic Kitzbüheler Horn, you can do a different hike everyday.
Photo: Innsbruck Tourismus; Christian Vorhofer
A Holiday the Austrian Way
Austria is a beautiful and diverse adventure destination no matter if you want to take it slow or kick things into high gear. For the perfect outdoor getaway, start planning your holiday in Austria today.