Austria

Walking holidays in Austria

It’s easy to fall head-over-heels in love with Austria. Not only does this landlocked nation up the ante for endless mountain climbs and icy lake swims, but it also wows with flower-filled meadows, culture-rich cities, and a dizzying array of season-specific activities. It’s clear to see why we’re so smitten with this country, not least for the peaks, summits, and long-distance hiking trails that take your right into the thick of the Alpine action. 

Be wowed by the Zillertal Alps 

Extending from the provinces of Salzburgerland and Tirol in Austria to South Tyrol in Italy, the Zillertal Alps have well-established routes for every level of walker – from have-a-go hikers to more ambitious mountain climbers. Expect ascents and descents through white-carpeted landscapes in winter, gentle walks through wildflower meadows in summer, and après ski fun in the resort town of Mayrhofen year-round. There’s opportunity here to also walk in the Stillup Valley, hike to the famous Olpererhütte at 2,388 metres above sea level, and take in uninterrupted views of the Schlegeis Reservoir. 

Discover the scenic Stubai Alps 

Stretching south-west of Innsbruck and covering the area between the upper Valle Isarco valley in South Tyrol and the Oetztal valley in North Tyrol, the Stubai Alps is the biggest glacier skiing area in Austria. There’s year-round snow and spectacular mountain scenery, but the biggest draw here is Neustift – the pretty village closest to the Stubai glacier noted for its excellent outdoor activities, large network of walking trails, and lively après ski scene in winter.

Travel around the Seefeld Plateau 

Adored by mountain-lovers and cross-country skiing fans, the Seefeld Plateau also ticks boxes for foodies who fancy sampling all manner of Tyrolean specialities in small mountain restaurants. Highlights of our walking holidays in Austria include spending time at the mystical Leutasch Spirit Gorge, riding a heritage steam train to Achensee, and hearing the 10-tonne Mösern Peace Bell ring daily at 5pm. You’ll also venture to the Gaistal Valley, a picture-perfect area flanked by the Mieming Range to the south and the Wetterstein Mountains to the north. 

Explore Tyrol’s city of Innsbruck 

As the chic and very walkable capital of Western Austria’s Tyrol region, Innsbruck charms with a slew of landmarks beneath its snow-topped peaks. Make your way to the Old Town for it Goldenes Dachl (Golden Roof) and shop-lined Maria Theresien Street before spending time at the gorgeous gardens at the Renaissance-style Ambras Castle which is set high on the hills in the city’s outskirts. You may also visit Swarovski Crystal World, the dazzling attraction created by Austrian artist André Heller to mark the company’s 100th anniversary.