For picture-perfect landscapes coupled with an acute sense of tradition, look no further than our hiking tours in Austria. The local communities here have kept many of their old customs: the high pastures are still farmed, prize-winning Austrian cheeses are made in the mountains and traditional Austrian dress is often worn. Quaint refuges, cafés, restaurants and bars are dotted around the mountains and in the hamlets and villages, providing welcome refreshments during our walking tours in Austria – as well as delicious cakes and strudels…
For many people, hiking tours in the Austrian Tyrol typify the best of the Alps: dramatic scenery with jagged, snow-capped mountains towering above lush, flower-filled meadows, and picturesque villages where geraniums spill brightly from the balconies of rustic wooden chalets. Of course, those same mountains are covered in glorious snow in winter, making Austria a superb destination for winter walking too!
Heading just a few hours east, the Austrian lakes offer an equally glorious mix of valley views, secluded beaches and local life. On rest days, the opportunities are endless – whether you want to try your hand at exhilarating water sports or meander through nearby fairy-tale cities, our walking holidays in Austria offer an unbeatable experience for everyone.
Breathtaking Scenery: One of the main highlights of walking tours in Austria is the breathtaking scenery that surrounds you on every step of the journey. The Austrian Alps dominate the landscape, with their majestic peaks, snow-capped mountains, and cascading waterfalls. Whether you choose to trek through the Tyrolean Alps, along the Wachau Heritage Trail or along the famous lakes, you will be in awe of the natural beauty that awaits you at every turn.
Well-Maintained Trails: Austria is renowned for its well-maintained network of hiking trails, making it an ideal destination for walking tours. Whether you are a novice or an experienced hiker, there are trails suitable for all levels of fitness and expertise. From leisurely strolls through lush meadows to challenging hikes along rocky ridges, the well-marked trails ensure you can explore the landscapes with ease and without fear of getting lost.
Cultural Heritage: Aside from its natural beauty, the country is also rich in cultural heritage, adding another layer of interest to walking holidays in Austria. As you walk through the charming villages and towns, you will have the opportunity to immerse yourself in Austrian history and traditions. From the pilgrimage route of the Tyrolean Way of St. James to the idyllic villages of the Wachau Valley known for their wine production, there are plenty of cultural treasures to discover along the way.
Varied Wildlife: Austria’s diverse landscapes are home to a wide range of flora and fauna, making walking holidays here a paradise for nature and wildlife lovers. As you explore the alpine meadows and dense forests, you may spot majestic golden eagles soaring overhead, marmots scurrying between rocks or chamois gracefully bounding through the mountains. The diversity of wildlife in Austria adds an element of excitement and surprise to your walking adventure.
Authentic Alpine Cuisine: No walking tour in Austria is complete without indulging in the country’s authentic alpine cuisine. From hearty stews and dumplings to mouthwatering pastries and freshly brewed beer, Austrian food offers a delicious blend of hearty and flavoursome dishes. As you traverse the trails, you will come across mountain huts and traditional alpine restaurants where you can refuel with local specialties.
How long are your walking tours in Austria?
Our awe-inspiring Austria trips range from eight to nine days, giving you plenty of time to soak up your serene surroundings. In some you’ll settle down in the same hand-picked hotel throughout, while in others you’ll make your way from base to base – with our team taking care of your luggage transfers of course.
Are your walking tours in Austria guided?
If you’re setting out on our walking tour in the Austrian Tyrol, you’ll be guided every step of the way by one of our expert local guides. They’re more than route-finders however – you’ll hear fascinating insights into the region and its traditions, while ticking off the best local hideouts along the way. Leaving for the lakes? Our self-guided options include detailed kilometre-by-kilometre notes to keep you company on routes that have been tried and tested by our experts.
Book your Austrian walking tour today!
Whether you’re looking for activity-packed adventures, opportunities for sightseeing or relaxing rest days in a luxury pool and wellness centre, our walking tours in Austria have got it all. If you’d like to customise one of our trips to make it that extra bit special, we’ll try our best to make it happen.
We had a wonderful holiday not least because of the tour leader Miguel aka Mike who was knowledgeable and passionate about the culture and natural environment of Andalucia and thoughtful and generous in the way he engaged with every member of the group. The farmhouse provided good food, always delivered with a smile. The views across the valley are stunning. I particularly enjoyed hearing and seeing the variety of bird life, expertly pointed out by Miguel and others in the group. The walks themselves were interesting and varied. The group also bonded well together with lots of stories and laughter.
The walks were interesting and varied. My personal highlights were a picnic lunch in the Grounds of an old monastery and the final walk of the week which not only was a beautiful trek up a local mountain but also allowed us to look out on the whole area we had walked around in the week giving a real sense of completion.
Our trip was wonderful! Miguel is a excellent guide with so much knowledge of the area including the history, plants & animals. Though a bit rustic, the Cortijo Rosario was lovely & very in keeping with the beautiful olive groves surrounding it- very homey / personal & perfect for me. The staff & food were fabulous as we’re all of the fabulous acquaintances made. Thanks to all for a great trip.
This was one of my favourite treks . We saw absolutely no other tourists on this trek . In the villages , the local people were so friendly . We managed to converse in pigeon french and were shown the local toad pond by some little boys in one village , had mint tea in a villagers home in another and were dressed as brides in another village . Everyone was so hospitable .
What are the best walking destinations in Austria?
Austria boasts numerous walking destinations, but some of the most popular ones include the Austrian Alps, the Wachau Heritage Trail, Tyrolean Alps and the Danube Valley. A tour of the Austrian Lakes guides you among stunning views, alpine forests and postcard pretty villages. Along the way, you’ll discover hidden gems such as St Wolfgang’s ancient cog railway, the Mozart museum at St Geilgen and beautiful frescoed houses. You can also summit mighty peaks such as the Kitzbüheler Horn, Vormauerstein and Elfer, which provide you with immense mountain views.
When is the best time to go on a walking tour in Austria?
The best time to enjoy hiking in Austria is during the summer months from June to September. During this period, the weather is generally pleasant, with warm temperatures and longer daylight hours. It’s also the perfect time to see the Alpine flora and fauna when it’s in full bloom. Even in the summer months, you’ll find fewer crowds than at other European destinations and the walking trails are more peaceful.
How difficult are the walking trails in Austria?
Austria offers a wide range of trails suitable for all fitness levels and hiking experience. From leisurely walks on flat terrain to more challenging mountain climbs, there is something for everyone. Make sure to research your chosen trail beforehand to determine its difficulty level and your ability to tackle it. For each of our tours, we grade the activity level and give you more detailed information about the walks that are featured, so make sure you select one that you’re confident will match your fitness levels.
Do you have self-guided walking tours in Austria?
Yes, we offer a wide range of self-guided walking tours in Austria. The itineraries have been carefully curated by teams of experts to ensure you experience the main sights as well as discover lesser-known gems that are off the beaten track. We also provide detailed trips notes and suggest places of interest which you can explore at your own pace. This makes our self-guided tours ideal for anyone who wants to linger longer wherever they choose and immerse themselves in the scenery, history and culture of each destination.
How long do you need in Austria?
The duration of walking holidays in Austria can vary depending on personal preference and what you want to see and experience during your trip. To explore a wide range of walking trails and truly immerse yourself in the country’s alpine scenery, we would recommend a minimum of 7 days. A week is ample time to explore a variety of trails as well as pretty villages and historical towns where you can sample the local cuisine and learn about the history and culture.
Can I combine walking tours with other activities in Austria?
Austria is a wonderful outdoor playground that lends itself to an array of activities that will complement your walking tour. On our Austrian Lakes Activities trip, you can enjoy walking, cycling, water sports, boat trips and swimming. If you want to enjoy something a little more relaxing, you can also unwind at the hotel’s wellness centre or ride the cable car to the summit of Zwolferhorn for incredible panoramic views.
What kind of wildlife can I see in Austria?
Austria, a land of stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity, is home to a diverse array of wildlife. From the rugged peaks of the Alps to the serene lakes and forests, the country offers a haven for numerous animal species such as deer, chamois, marmots and eagles. You might also be fortunate enough to spot the majestic Alpine ibex, the elusive lynx and the European otter. Its forests support a variety of birdlife, including the golden eagle and the capercaillie. Additionally, Austria is known for its population of brown bears, which roam freely in some of the more remote areas.
