Straight from the scenes of “The Sound of Music”, Austria offers the most amazing scenery for a walking holiday. Whether you’re discovering the lakes of Salzburg, exploring the valleys of Innsbruck or taking on the Dachstein circuit in the Austrian Alps, it is true the hills really are alive, offering the perfect setting for a stunning walking holiday. Often the reality of a place doesn’t live up to the expectations you hold. Luckily, Austria will far exceed your expectations, however high they are.

Austria's well-marked and meticulously maintained trails cater to hikers of all levels, ensuring accessibility for both beginners and seasoned trekkers. Whether you prefer easier walks through charming villages, moderate hikes along the rolling hills, or challenging ascents to alpine summits, you'll find the perfect trail to suit your preferences in Austria.

Step into a world where alpine landscapes, charming villages, and cultural treasures converge to create the perfect setting for an unforgettable walking holiday in Austria. 

Nestled in the heart of Europe, Austria beckons walkers with its picturesque trails that wind through majestic mountains, serene lakes, and storybook towns. From the Tyrolean Alps to the Austrian Lakes District, each region offers a unique walking experience, allowing you to immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of this enchanting country. Below are just three of the reasons of why Austria should eb your next walking holiday destination.

First and foremost Austria is home to some of Europes most stunning scenic trails. In Innsbruck, the city's streets are framed by a majestic Alpine backdrop. The challenging Dachstein Circuit in the Austrian Alps provides breathtaking views. The serene lakes of Salzburg, like Wolfgangsee and Fuschlsee, offer tranquil walks. Meanwhile, the UNESCO-listed Salzkammergut region enchants with crystal-clear lakes, dense forests, and charming villages, such as the postcard-perfect Hallstatt. Austria's diverse landscapes promise awe-inspiring views at every step of your journey.

A walking holiday in Austria provides ample opportunities for cultural immersion. Beyond the picturesque landscapes, you can explore historic towns like Salzburg and Innsbruck, indulging in Austria's rich musical and artistic heritage. Sampling local cuisine, attending festivals, and experiencing traditional coffee houses all offer authentic insights into Austrian culture, making your journey an enriching blend of nature and tradition.

Austria's reputation for its well-kept hiking paths makes it a perfect choice for walking holidays. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned hiker, you'll find trails catering to various fitness levels and skills. From easy meadow walks to demanding ridge hikes, the clearly marked paths provide a worry-free and accessible means to explore the stunning landscapes.

Our walking holidays in Austria are so diverse, from rolling trails and cultural city breaks to scaling remote alpine peaks. Likewise the accommodation can vary wildly. But you can't get more diverse than relaxing hotels to rustic huts.

Our accommodations range from 3-star to 4-star quality, offering a perfect haven after a day of walking. Most rooms are designed for double or twin occupancy, some featuring the traditional Austrian-style twin beds (two beds within a single frame with separate bedding). Single rooms can be arranged for an additional fee at most hotels. Furthermore, the hotels we select are strategically situated and boast excellent amenities. Many of these establishments potentially include swimming pools and jacuzzis, allowing you to relax and breathe in the fresh mountain air as you rejuvenate for another day of walking ahead.

Staying in mountain huts provides the opportunity to get off the beaten path and stay away from the crowds. These rustic lodgings, perched in pristine high-altitude locations, provide a sense of isolation and tranquillity. While the accommodation may be basic, the warm hospitality of the hut keepers and the camaraderie with fellow hikers create a unique and communal atmosphere. Waking up to panoramic mountain views and sharing tales of the trail over a hearty meal makes mountain huts an integral part of an Alpine adventure.

The weather for a walking holiday in Austria varies with the seasons. Spring, from April to June is a great time to embark on a walking holiday in Austria as the flowers start to bloom, the landscapes are lush and the weather is mild, often with fewer crowds.

The summer, from June to August, is a popular time for a walking holiday in Austria as the weather is pleasant and warm in the lower regions. In the alpine regions, you’ll find cooler temperatures offering restbite from the summer heat, which is ideal for walking.

In autumn, from September to October, Austria takes on a golden glow. The weather stays pleasant, and the scenery comes alive with beautiful autumn foliage. Walking during this time is a special experience as you explore forests and meadows painted in warm shades of red, orange, and gold. It's a great time for alpine walks and exploring charming valleys.

However, winter is not necessarily advised for a walking holiday in Austria due to the cold and snowy conditions. It's essential to note that the specific weather conditions can vary by region within Austria, so checking the local forecast for your chosen destination is advisable.

Our walking holidays in Austria are tailored to a wide range of experience levels. Whether you prefer leisurely strolls by the Austrian lakes or seek a more challenging alpine trek in the Alps, we have you covered. If you're looking for a relaxed, self-paced journey, our self-guided tour of the Salzkammergut lakes allows you to gently explore the majestic landscapes.

For a moderately challenging trek, the Dachstein Circuit Trek offers an excellent choice. This route leads you through breathtaking alpine terrain while providing a warm welcome at traditional Austrian mountain huts.

If you're up for a more demanding adventure, consider trekking the Tiolerweg, which takes you from Germany into Austria, offering a thrilling challenge for the avid hiker.

For those seeking alternatives to a walking holiday in Austria, there are many other European gems that might be what you are after. In Switzerland, it doesn't matter whether you're journeying along winding trails or climbing iconic summits - either way, you'll be immersed in the mountains, treated to breathtaking views of one of the most picturesque countries on the planet. on a Swiss journey you can wander cross-border and experience the very best of the Alps by walking the Tour de Monte Rosa or hiking from Mont Blanc to the Matterhorn. For those that love a challenge, Switzerland is packed with adventures to set your sights on, from learning glacier skills and bagging summits on our Swiss 4000 Metre Peaks climbing week, to taking on the highest peak entirely in Switzerland climbing to the true summit of Monte Rosa. 

Situated in south-eastern Europe on the Balkan Peninsula, Bulgaria is a beautiful mountainous country about half the size of the UK. Although perhaps best known for its Black Sea resorts, the real character of the country is to be found in its mountain regions. There are six very different ranges varying from gentle green slopes and forests with flower-strewn alpine meadows, to high, snow-covered peaks. The rugged Rila and Pirin mountains are the most spectacular of these and in the winter they are host to several ski resorts, whilst in the summertime they offer some of the finest hiking in Europe.

Walking holidays in Georgia offer a unique and immersive experience for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. This diverse country in the South Caucasus region features breathtaking landscapes, including the towering Greater Caucasus Mountains, lush valleys, and picturesque villages. Hiking through scenic trails, exploring ancient monasteries, and savouring Georgian cuisine make for an unforgettable walking holiday in this underrated gem of a destination.