Austrian Alps – welcome to a postcard-perfect destination of majestic mountains, lush valleys, and picturesque villages. In this guide to the best things to do in the Austrian Alps, we’ll show you the most beautiful regions in Austria, with practical tips for day trips and hiking routes for your holiday. Whether you’re visiting in summer as a couple or with children, you’ll find plenty to enjoy.
What will you find in this article?
- Things to do in the Austrian Alps – map
- Best places to visit in the Austrian Alps
- More information about visiting the Alps
Things to do in the Austrian Alps – map
HOW TO USE THIS MAP: Above you will find a detailed map of the best things to do in the Austrian Alps. Click in the top left corner to view separate layers with highlighted locations. You can hide or show these layers, or click on the icons on the map to see the names of places mentioned in this travel guide to the best things to do in the Austrian Alps. If you want to save the map, click the star. For a larger version, click on the icon in the upper right corner.
Best Things to do in the Austrian Alps: Top Places to visit
1. Wolfgangsee
Wolfgangsee in Austria, a lake with turquoise water surrounded by forests and high mountains, is located in the Salzkammergut region near Salzburg. It is ideally placed for day trips to Salzburg, Hallstatt, and the Dachstein mountains (see the next point).
Take a swim in the crystal-clear water, follow a well-maintained trail around the lake, and enjoy the charm of the traditional lakeside villages of St. Wolfgang, St. Gilgen, and Strobl.
Read more about the best places to visit and things to do at Lake Wolfgangsee, including photos, hiking tips, and walking routes.
Things to do in the Wolfgangsee area:
Circular route around Bürglstein
The easy circular route around Bürglstein, near Strobl, runs partly along the lake and partly through the forest. There is a free car park at the start. The route is 4 km long and takes about 1–1.5 hours to complete.
Zwölferhorn
The Zwölferhorn is one of our favourite peaks at Lake Wolfgangsee, offering some of the best views of the lake. If you’re looking for a place to spend the whole day, the Zwölferhorn is ideal. You’ll find several hiking trails and traditional mountain huts.
You can reach the top via an easy hiking trail or by taking the cable car from Sankt Gilgen.
The Schafberg Railway
The Schafberg Railway is one of the best things to do at Wolfgangsee. The lower station is located in St. Wolfgang, and the ride to the top takes around 35 minutes. In high season, there are usually large crowds, so it’s best to book tickets in advance, as they tend to sell out.
Along the way, you can enjoy spectacular views and a unique experience — you won’t often see a cog railway in the Alps. Check the official website for up-to-date information.
You can also hike to the top of the Schafberg — the climb takes about 3–4 hours, depending on your fitness and the weather conditions. From the summit, you can enjoy views of turquoise-coloured lakes nestled among the Alpine peaks.
Where to stay at Wolfgangsee
At some hotels and guesthouses around the lake, you’ll receive a free WolfgangseeCard — a regional guest card that offers discounts on boat transport, the cog railway to Schafberg, natural beaches, and other attractions in the area.
However, it’s not always worth it: the WolfgangseeCard usually only gives small discounts (around €1–3 per attraction), and some cheaper accommodation options without the card can be €20–30 per night less expensive.
Regardless of where you stay, all guests in the Salzburg region will also receive a Guest Mobility Ticket, which allows free travel on public transport (buses and trains) throughout the area.
Recommended accommodations offering the WolfgangseeCard:
- Moosaik Appartements: New and modern apartments in a quiet location, great for couples and families, free parking
- Hotel Garni-Schernthaner: Family-run hotel in the centre of Sankt Gilgen, good accessibility, friendly staff, and excellent breakfast
- Hotel-Pension Falkensteiner: Rooms or apartments with kitchenette, garden, private beach, and free parking
- Gasthof Kleefeld: Cosy hotel in a peaceful location, ideal for families with children (animal preserve, playroom, playground), half board.
🏡 Accommodation around Wolfgangsee
These accommodations include a SommerCard, which provides free transport around Salzburg and discounts on attractions in the surrounding area. All guests automatically receive this card when staying at least one night:
2. Dachstein mountain range
The Dachstein mountain range is a dramatic section of the Northern Limestone Alps and ranks among the most popular areas in the Austrian Alps.
Explore the picturesque town of Hallstatt, admire the views from the suspension bridge or the famous Five Fingers viewpoint, or hike around the alpine lakes of Gosauseen.
Things to do in Dachstein, Austria:
Hallstatt
Hallstatt
Hallstatt is an iconic Alpine town and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It sits on a lakeshore at the foot of towering mountains, with its church dominating the view over the traditional Alpine houses.
You can visit the salt mines or the “Welterbeblick” Skywalk — we have more details in our separate Hallstatt travel guide.
Ice and Mammoth Cave – Five Fingers Viewpoint
The Five Fingers viewpoint is one of Austria’s most famous lookouts, offering fantastic views of Hallstatt and the lake.
You can reach it by cable car from Obertraun. The first section, Dachstein Krippensteinbahn I, stops at the Ice and Mammoth Caves.
Then you change to Dachstein Krippensteinbahn II, which brings you closer to the Five Fingers. From there, it’s about a 1 km walk to the viewing platform, where you can take in magnificent Alpine panoramas.
There is also the World Heritage Spiral viewpoint right near the Hoher Krippenstein summit, with amazing views of Hoher Dachstein, the highest peak of the Dachstein massif.
Note: The viewpoint itself is free, but there is a fee for the cable car and cave entrance. Always check current opening times and prices before you go.
Suspension bridge – Skywalk viewpoint
The Skywalk and its suspension bridge are located near Ramsau am Dachstein and can be easily reached by cable car, which saves you almost 1,000 vertical metres of climbing.
After arriving, you’ll reach the Skywalk observation deck. From there, you can continue to the suspension bridge, which sits at 2,687 m and is the highest of its kind in Austria.
The 100 m long bridge leads to an iron walkway, which takes you to the “Stairs to Nowhere” viewpoint — a dramatic platform that really does end above a deep valley, guaranteed to get your adrenaline pumping.
From here, you can continue along the walkway to the Dachstein Ice Palace.
If you’d like to enjoy even more panoramic views, continue towards the Seethalerhütte, located just below Hoher Dachstein (2,995 m), the highest peak of the Dachstein massif. The route is about 2 km long.
Waterfalls Riesachfälle and Lake Riesachsee
The beautiful Riesachfälle waterfalls are just a short walk from the famous Schladming ski resort. Although they are technically outside the Dachstein mountain range, they lie only a short distance away.
You can park your car in Seeleiten (buses also stop here — free with the SommerCard, see below) at the end of the Untertalbach valley. In 2024, parking cost €11. From there, follow the orange Alpinsteig Höll trail along the Riesachbach stream.
You’ll need good hiking shoes and a steady step, but it’s worth the effort. The trail continues to Lake Riesachsee, and you can extend your hike all the way to the Preintalerhütte mountain hut.
🏡 Accommodation near Dachstein – Schladming
These accommodations include a SommerCard, which gives you free access to cable cars, public transport, and attractions in the area. Valid from 29 May to 2 November 2025.
Lakes Gosauseen
The Gosauseen lakes are made up of three: Vorderer Gosausee, Gosaulacke, and Hinterer Gosausee. The route starts at the largest, Vorderer Gosausee, where you can park and walk around the lake.
Most visitors choose to circle just the first lake, but if you have time, it’s worth exploring all three in turn.
If you want to enjoy spectacular views of the Dachstein massif, take the Gosaukammbahn cable car from Vorderer Gosausee and continue on one of the many hiking routes — from easy trails to more challenging options. Without children, you can even climb to the summit of Grosser Donnerkogel (2,050 m).
Read more in our detailed guide to the Dachstein Mountains linked in the previous article.
Where to stay in the Dachstein area:
- Seehotel am Hallstättersee: Cosy hotel with great value for money on the shores of Lake Hallstatt
- Dormio Hotel Obertraun: Fully equipped resort in Obertraun, just a short walk from the lake (swimming pool, playground, garden, free parking, restaurant)
- Lodge am Krippenstein: Stylish mountain hotel right on the summit of Krippenstein with spectacular views
- COOEE Hotel: Popular hotel in Gosau, located halfway between Wolfgangsee and the Dachstein mountains. Offers half board, good facilities, and free parking
- Alpine Club: Fully equipped apartments in Schladming with great value for money, plus children’s and tennis court and other facilities
How to save in the Dachstein–Schladming area
The following accommodations include the Dachstein–Schladming Sommercard, which you will receive automatically upon arrival. The card is valid from 29 May to 2 November for anyone staying in partner accommodation for at least one night, starting at 13:00 on your arrival day and valid through the entire departure day.
With the card, you can travel for free on local and regional buses, use cable cars (Riesneralm, Planai, Hochwurzen, Reiteralm, and the Dachstein glacier cable car if staying at least two nights), and drive on toll roads (Stoderzinken, Reiteralm, Forstau-Winkl). Additional discounts on area attractions are also included.
Partner accommodations with the Dachstein–Schladming Sommercard:
- Our tip – Ferienalm Panorama Hotel: New hotel at a great price, rooms and apartments with kitchenettes, excellent food, and beautiful views
- TUI Blue Schladming: Cosy, modern hotel with free parking and great value for money
- JUFA Hotel Schladming: Pleasant three-star hotel in the centre of Schladming, with a spa and hearty breakfast
- Berghotel Türlwand: Traditional alpine hotel in Ramsau, surrounded by mountains directly below the Dachstein cable car, excellent food, friendly host
3. Hochkönig Mountains – things to do in the Austrian Alps
The Hochkönig mountain range stretches along the border with Germany and is flanked on the other side by the Berchtesgaden Alps.
Around the Hochkönig glacier, you can still experience nature away from mass tourism. Here, you can enjoy peaceful hiking trails, take in the quiet atmosphere, and meet friendly locals who are happy to chat.
Hiking in the Hochkönig Mountains, Austria:
Hochkönig Glacier
The Hochkönig glacier is the dominant feature of the entire area, rising to 2,941 m. In winter, you can ski here; in summer, you can choose from several hiking trails. You’ll find more information about skiing on the Hochkönig glacier here.
Ascent of the Hochkönig glacier
You can climb the Hochkönig glacier to its highest point, but be prepared for a significant elevation gain of around 1,600 m. It can be done in a single day, but you’ll need to start very early, as the climb takes about 5 hours.
Park at the Dientner Saddle, then head towards the Erichhütte mountain hut. From there, continue to the right along the red-marked hiking trail towards the Hohe Scharte saddle and then the Birgkarscharte saddle. From this point, you’ll make the final ascent to the summit on a smaller trail.
The route is strenuous and requires plenty of water and good physical fitness.
Easy route around the Hochkönig massif
If you’re looking for an easy, pleasant route suitable for children with nice views, consider the Königsweg. It runs along the entire southern side of the Hochkönig and has several access points that make it easy to join the trail.
Along the way, you’ll pass plenty of cows, horses, and even an occasional waterfall. You can stop for a meal in one of the traditional Austrian mountain chalets, known for their friendly and welcoming service.
Karbachalm cable car
This viewpoint is a must for anyone who wants to enjoy panoramic views of the Hochkönig massif.
You can leave your car at the parking area by the Karbachalm lower cable car station in Mühlbach am Hochkönig. At the top, you’ll find a restaurant and easy hiking trails where you can take in the scenery, including the impressive Hochkönig.
The best accommodation around the Hochkönig Glacier:
- Harry’s home: Stylish rooms and apartments with breakfast included, located in Bischofshofen, a convenient base for hiking to the Dachstein glacier, Salzburg, and other nearby spots
- Hotel Der Burgblick: Modern and comfortable hotel, well placed for exploring the Hochkönig Glacier and the Salzkammergut region near Salzburg
- Ramada Apartments: Fully equipped, cosy apartments with a swimming pool and free parking
4. Hohe Tauern National Park – Alps in Austria
Hohe Tauern National Park forms the backbone of the Austrian Alps. Here you can experience unspoilt alpine nature with steep peaks, cascading waterfalls, and lush meadows. If you want to discover the best of the Austrian Alps, don’t miss the Hohe Tauern.
Enjoy a hike on one of the trails or take a drive along the alpine road, where you’ll find fantastic views of the Grossglockner, Austria’s highest peak.
🏡 Accommodation around Zell am See – Kaprun
These accommodations include a SommerCard, which gives you free access to selected lifts, public transport, and attractions in the area. All guests receive the card automatically on arrival. Valid from 15 May to 31 October 2025.
Things to do in Hohe Tauern National Park:
Kitzsteinhorn glacier
The Kitzsteinhorn glacier is one of the most popular places in Austria for year-round skiing. Beyond skiing, there is plenty more to do — you can explore the Alps from the Summit World 3000 viewpoint, hike one of the scenic trails, or rent a mountain bike and ride the local routes. You’ll find more information about the Kitzsteinhorn glacier here.
Wasserfallboden and Mooserboden Dams
Seeing the high-mountain dams of Wasserfallboden (1,672 m) and Mooserboden (2,036 m) was what first made me fall in love with the Alps. These impressive dams are located in the Kapruner Tal valley and can be visited on a day trip.
The ticket office can be reached by bus 660 (which runs from Zell am See via Kaprun) or by car, with free parking available at the Kesselfall parking garage. From the ticket office, buses take you to the dam together with the funicular railway. The whole journey is an experience in itself, especially the steep cable car ride.
You can find up-to-date information about the Mooserboden dam (ticket prices, opening times, cable car, news) at this link.
The Grossglockner Alpine Road and the Pasterze Glacier
Looking for a day trip where you can take in alpine scenery from morning to night? Drive the Grossglockner Alpine Road, where you’ll see the longest glacier in the Hohe Tauern National Park — the Pasterze — lying directly below the Grossglockner peak.
You may spot marmots running around, and you’ll have spectacular views of the highest peaks in the Austrian Alps.
The Grossglockner Hochalpenstrasse is one of the most scenic panoramic roads in Austria and a highlight not to be missed if you plan to visit the Austrian Alps in summer.
The road connects Fusch an der Großglocknerstraße with Heiligenblut and is 48 km long.
Along the way, near Heiligenblut, there is a turn-off to the Kaiser-Franz-Josefs-Höhe viewpoint, from where you can see the Pasterze glacier and the Grossglockner peak.
Check here for up-to-date information on the Grossglockner Alpine Road, including prices, opening hours, and news.
Lakes Grünsee, Weißsee and Tauernmoossee
The alpine lakes Grünsee, Weißsee, and Tauernmoossee are located near the Enzingerboden power station close to Uttendorf. This is also the starting point, as you’ll find the lower cable car station to Weißsee here, with a stop at Lake Grünsee.
The cable car takes you first to Lake Grünsee, and from there, another cable car continues up to the highest lake, Weißsee. If you prefer to walk, plan on about 2–3 hours to reach Weißsee.
The area around Weißsee is crisscrossed with hiking trails, from easy walks to more challenging routes. For example, you can descend to the Tauernmoossee reservoir. It is also possible to walk or cycle here from the power station in the opposite direction.
Besides hiking, the glacier area also offers great skiing — you can find more information here.
Read more about the Hohe Tauern National Park in our previous article, including photos, trail descriptions, and a map. Zell am See is a convenient base for exploring the Hohe Tauern. In addition, selected accommodations include a SommerCard with free access to lifts and attractions — see the article for details.
Where to stay in Hohe Tauern National Park:
These accommodations include a SommerCard, which gives you free access to selected lifts, public transport, and attractions in the area. All guests receive the card automatically on arrival. Valid from 15 May to 31 October 2025.
- Elements Resort Zell am See: Four-star resort with fully equipped apartments, outdoor pool, restaurant, fitness room, and free parking
- AvenidA Mountain Lodges: Stylish aparthotel in Kaprun with complete facilities for a relaxing holiday
- Das Alpenhaus Kaprun: Modern hotel in the centre of Kaprun with a spa, swimming pool, and half board included
- Hotel LukasMayr: Pleasant three-star hotel in Bruck an der Großglocknerstraße with half board (SommerCard not included)
5. Zillertal Alps – things to do in the Austrian Alps
On the Austrian–Italian border in the Tyrol region, the Zillertal Alps stretch across the landscape with their glaciated peaks, long valleys, clear lakes, and sweeping views.
Visit the Krimml Waterfalls, the largest waterfalls in Austria, enjoy the view of the Schlegeis Dam, or ski year-round on the Hintertux Glacier.
🏡 Accommodation in the Zillertal Alps
Things to do in the Zillertal Alps:
Hintertux Glacier
The Hintertux Glacier is one of the largest glaciers in the world. If you love skiing, this is a place where you can ski all year round. You can find more information about skiing on the Hintertux glacier here.
Tip: The best accommodation for easy glacier access is Hotel Thermal-Badhotel Kirchler, just a few minutes from the cable car, offering a spa and a restaurant.
Alpine Road to Schlegeis Stausee and Schlegeisspeicher
Another high mountain road in Austria is the Schlegeis Stausee Alpine Road, located just across the Italian border. In 2025, you will pay €18 for a car and €15 for a motorbike. It is open from 16 May to 31 October 2025.
The road is 13 km long and helps you bridge an 800 m elevation gain to reach an altitude of 1,780 m. While the Schlegeis Stausee may not have the same dramatic views as the Grossglockner road, it rewards you at the end with the impressive Schlegeisspeicher high-mountain dam, with clear water framed by alpine peaks.
Take a walk around the dam on a well-maintained path or explore one of the nearby hiking trails.
Hiking trail to Pfitscherjoch Hut
Pfitscherjoch Hut (Italian: Rifugio Passo di Vizze) is located just across the border in Italy. The route is 7.4 km one way and takes a little over 2.5 hours.
Most of the trail runs through the valley, with a steeper climb only near the end up to the Pfitscherjoch saddle. From there, it’s just a short walk to the hut, which sits right next to Jochsee lake. The path is easy and partly follows a cycle route.
Hiking route to Olpererhütte
Olpererhütte is located directly above the Schlegeisspeicher dam, offering one of the best views of the reservoir. Many visitors come here for the iconic photo on the small suspension bridge. To reach the hut, you’ll climb about 600 vertical metres in roughly 2 hours.
Zillergründl Dam
The Zillergründl Dam is located east of Mayrhofen at an altitude of 1,850 m. You can reach the dam on foot via a 4 km trail starting at the Bärenbad Inn. The more popular option is to take the bus directly from Mayrhofen station, which runs hourly during the summer season.
You can take an easy walk around the reservoir to the Hohenaualm hut (about 1.5 hours one way; suitable for bikes and strollers). If you’d like to see the dam and its surroundings from a bird’s-eye view, continue to the Plauener Hütte, which is less than 2 hours away.
Zillertal High Alpine Road
Experience impressive views of the Zillertal Alps along the 50 km long Zillertal High Alpine Road. The route climbs from 500 meters up to 2,020 meters.
In 2025, the toll for driving this route is €10 (€7 for motorbikes). It’s definitely worth it, as you can easily spend the whole day here.
You can park at one of the designated car parks, enjoy refreshments at a mountain hut, and choose from several hiking trails to explore the surrounding mountains. Check out the official website for more information about the available trails.
Finkenberg
Between the peaks of Penken (2,095 m) and Knorren (2,081 m) lies the popular Finkenberg area. It is easily accessible and ideal for a family trip. You can reach the top on foot or by cable car from Finkenberg or Mayrhofen.
Follow the easy trails, take in the views from the restaurant, or continue towards the summit of Wanglspitze along the excellent ridge route (about 1.5 hours one way).
Krimml Waterfalls
The Krimml Waterfalls, at 380 meters high, will leave you soaked — at least, that was our experience. The falls are divided into three cascades connected by a 4 km long paved trail. There are 11 viewpoints along the way where you can get very close to the water. The higher you climb, the fewer tourists you’ll encounter.
The Krimml Waterfalls are accessed via a turnoff from the Gerlos Strasse toll road. It is passable year-round (but don’t forget proper winter tires in the colder months) and costs €12.50 for cars and €9 for motorbikes in 2025.
At Krimml Falls, you’ll find a large paid parking lot, an information centre, and stalls along the path to the falls. There is also a small fee to enter the waterfall area.
Where to stay in the Zillertal Alps:
- Hotel Thermal-Badhotel Kirchler: Popular hotel just a short walk from the cable car to the Hintertux glacier, with a restaurant and spa
- ZillergrundRock Luxury Mountain Resort: Luxury resort in the Mayrhofen valley with a rooftop pool, spa, and excellent half board included
- VAYA Zillertal: Stylish four-star hotel with swimming pool, spa, and half board
- Hotel Persal: Cosy alpine-style accommodation at a good price, with excellent cuisine and half board available
6. Stubai Alps – best things to do in the Austrian Alps
The Stubai Alps border the Zillertal Alps but are even more rugged in appearance. They create a striking contrast of white peaks and green valleys that never gets old.
And what to do here? You can go skiing on the Stubai Glacier, or take in the views from the Top of Tyrol lookout at 3,210 metres.
There are also many hiking trails around the glacier or towards the Kreuzjoch saddle, offering countless routes of varying difficulty.
🏡 Accommodation in the Stubai Alps
These accommodations include the Stubai Super Card, which gives you free access to selected lifts, public transport, and attractions in the area. All guests receive their card automatically on arrival. Valid from 16 May to 2 November 2025.
Things to do in the Stubai Alps:
Stubai Glacier
The Stubai Glacier is another place in the Austrian Alps with excellent skiing conditions — you can ski here from October to June (more information here).
In summer, the entire area around the Stubai Glacier is perfect for hiking. There are several trails of varying difficulty leading through the mountains, with alpine huts along the way where you can stop for refreshments.
Top of Tyrol and Glacier Cave
Do you want to see the Stubai Alps in all their glory? Head to the Stubai Glacier and take in the views from the Top of Tyrol lookout.
Another attraction here is the Glacier Cave, marked by a huge mammoth statue in front — a must-see, especially if you’re visiting with children.
Serles Peak
Travelling to the Stubai Alps with children? For a great family day out, we definitely recommend visiting the foot of Serles Mountain. There you’ll find a children’s playground, a bobsleigh run, a small reservoir, a restaurant, and views of the surrounding Alps. The summit can be reached by cable car from Mieders.
Panoramic route over the Kreuzjoch saddle
A cable car from the village of Fulpmes takes you up to the Kreuzjoch saddle, where you’ll find a playground, mountain huts, and several hiking trails. From here, you can hike to the summit of Krinnenköpfe, which features a small skywalk at 2,139 m.
More experienced hikers can head in the other direction to Niederer Burgstall (2,436 m) and then continue to Hoher Burgstall (2,611 m), descending back via the Starkenburger Hütte.
Where to stay in the Stubai Alps:
When booking these hotels, you will receive a free Stubai Super Card on arrival, which includes free use of local transport, cable cars, and discounts on activities in the area. Valid from 16 May to 2 November 2025.
- Activehotel Bergkönig: Stylish four-star hotel with wellness area, swimming pool, sun terrace, and half board
- Hotel Stubaierhof: Beautiful traditional alpine hotel with swimming pool, excellent cuisine, and good access to the Stubai Glacier or Innsbruck
- Schönherr Haus: Modern and cosy apartments and rooms with wellness facilities and a delicious breakfast
- Hotel VAYA: Modern and stylish hotel in Kühtai with full facilities and spectacular views (Stubai Super Card not included, but you receive a free Innsbruck Welcome Card with a minimum 2-night stay)
7. Karwendel and Lake Achensee
Achensee is the largest lake in Tyrol and is often called the “Tyrolean Sea.” Surrounded by mountains, with clear water and postcard-like views, it was love at first sight for us.
Achensee sits on the border of two mountain ranges — the Rofan and the Karwendel. The area is full of hiking trails, and in summer the water is pleasantly warm for swimming. It’s an ideal destination for hiking, swimming, cable car rides, and relaxing walks along the lake.
Things to do near Achensee
Circular trail along the Achensee
Along the eastern shore, there is a comfortable trail suitable for hiking and cycling (easy to manage even with a stroller). You can start in Maurach or Pertisau and follow the water to Achenkirch. If you don’t want to return the same way, you can take the boat back.
By cable car to Zwölferkopf (Karwendel)
From Pertisau, the Karwendelbahn cable car goes up to the summit of Zwölferkopf. At the top, you’ll find a pleasant mountain restaurant, a children’s playground, and well-maintained trails with beautiful views of Achensee.
A shorter route leads to the Bärenbadalm hut, and if you’d like a longer hike, you can continue to the Bärenkopf lookout. The path is steeper and rocky in places, but the views are worth the effort.
Adlerhorst viewpoint and the Rofan Mountains
From the other side of the lake (Maurach), you can take the Rofan Seilbahn. From the top station, several marked trails begin — for example, to the Adlerhorst viewpoint shaped like an eagle’s nest, which rises above the surrounding peaks.
Gaisalm Alpine Pasture
The Gaisalm is a popular mountain pasture located right on the shore of Achensee. You can reach it on foot from Pertisau or Achenkirch, or arrive by boat. The trails are narrow and steep in places but not technically difficult — sturdy shoes are enough.
At Gaisalm, you’ll find a restaurant with views of the lake, deck chairs, and a playground.
Dalfazer Wasserfall
The hike to Dalfazer Waterfall is one of the easier routes. It starts in Maurach and climbs gently to the 60-metre-high waterfall. If you’d like to extend the hike, you can continue higher to the Dalfazalm hut, which offers views of the lake.
🏡 Where to stay near Achensee
These accommodations include the AchenseeCard, which gives you free transportation and discounts on area attractions. All guests automatically receive the card when staying for at least one night.
8. Tennengebirge and the Golling area
The Tennengebirge lies between Salzburg and Dachstein and is one of the lesser-known parts of the Austrian Alps. Perhaps for that reason, you’ll find more tranquillity here than around Hallstatt or Schladming, yet it’s an ideal starting point for hikes to mountains, gorges, and waterfalls.
The town of Golling an der Salzach makes a great base, giving you access not only to local viewpoints but also to natural areas such as Bluntautal or the Gollinger Wasserfall. The location is easily accessible by train from Salzburg, making it a good choice even if you’re not travelling by car.
Things to do in the Golling area
Gollinger Wasserfall
This is the most famous spot in the area. With a total height of more than 75 metres, this two-tier waterfall is one of the most beautiful in the Salzburg region. There is an entrance fee — more information here.
After visiting the waterfall, you can enjoy a pleasant walk through the forest along the Schwarzbach river, where you’ll also find benches and resting places.
Bluntautal
Bluntautal is an alpine valley through which the glacial Torrener Bach river flows. The main trail leads to Bluntausee lake, where the water is so clear you can see every detail beneath the surface. The valley is also suitable for families, with an easy hike and beautiful alpine scenery along the way.
You can park directly at the entrance to Bluntautal or take the bus from Golling.
Lammerklamm
Lammerklamm is a well-known gorge near the town of Scheffau, about 15 minutes from Golling. Here, the water has carved a narrow path through limestone walls, creating a deep canyon with the turquoise Lammer River rushing between the rocks. Wooden footbridges lead right over the river, and in some places, the water flows directly beneath your feet.
There is an entrance fee for the gorge, and it is open from April until the end of October. For the latest information, check the official website. Parking is available directly at the entrance.
Eisriesenwelt – the largest ice cave in the world
Above the town of Werfen, just a 20-minute drive from Golling, you’ll find the Eisriesenwelt — the largest ice cave in the world.
The guided tour takes about 70 minutes and follows paved stairs and paths through ice walls, tunnels, and formations lit only by carbide lamps.
The cave is open from May to the end of October. Definitely book your tickets online and preferably in the morning. Even in summer, the temperature stays around freezing, so pack warm clothes and sturdy shoes.
9. Carinthia
Carinthia is located in the south of Austria and is one of the warmest alpine regions. Here you’ll find clear lakes, scenic mountain roads, national parks, and trails for everyone — from easy walks to alpine hikes. If you’re looking for a mix of mountains and swimming, Carinthia is a great choice.
Thanks to its varied landscape, you can plan trips throughout the day — visit a viewpoint or dam in the morning, take a dip in a warm lake in the afternoon, and relax at a mountain hut with a view in the evening.
Read more: Here you’ll find the most beautiful places in Carinthia. In the next article, we’ve shared tips for the best lakes in Carinthia and what not to miss at Wörthersee.
Things to do in Carinthia
Wörthersee and the Pyramidenkogel tower
Wörthersee is the largest and most famous lake in Carinthia. Thanks to its location, it is also one of the warmest lakes in Austria — in summer, the water reaches around 25 °C. The resorts of Klagenfurt and Velden sit on its shore, and above the lake stands the Pyramidenkogel, a wooden lookout tower with spectacular views.
Malta Hochalmstrasse High Mountain Road
The Malta Hochalmstrasse is one of the most beautiful panoramic roads in Austria. Along the way, you’ll see gorges, mountain huts, and waterfalls. At the end of the route lies the Kölbrein Dam, which you can cross all the way to the viewing platform. From there, you can hike to the Osnabrücker Hütte or continue deeper into the mountains.
Nockberge Biosphere Park
Rounded peaks, pine forests, and panoramic roads — that’s the Nockberge. The Nockalmstrasse runs through this area and is ideal for a scenic car trip with stops for short walks. The surroundings are interwoven with easy trails suitable for families with children. Along the way, you’ll find themed trails, playgrounds, and alpine huts.
Raggaschlucht and the Carinthian Gorges
There are several beautiful gorges in Carinthia. The Raggaschlucht near Flattach is famous for its wooden footbridges over a wild stream.
Not far from Villach, you’ll find the Tscheppaschlucht, with stairs, ladders, and a path around the Devil’s Bridge. For families with smaller children, I recommend the Groppensteinschlucht, which is easier to access and less demanding.
Where to stay in Carinthia
At selected hotels and guesthouses in Carinthia, you will receive a free Kärnten Card for stays of at least one night (valid from 5 April to 2 November 2025).
With this card, you get free entry to more than 100 attractions across Carinthia — from cable cars and panoramic roads to amusement rides and swimming pools. In addition, you’ll receive significant discounts at more than 50 other partners.
These accommodations include the Kärnten Card, which you will get free of charge on arrival:
- Naturhotel Ortners Eschenhof (our tip): Family-run hotel with heated pool and extensive wellness facilities, half board, great for couples and families
- Pension Isabella: Cozy guesthouse at a very good price, nice owners, rich breakfast, and good location for trips and hiking
- Hotel Kolmhof: Great facilities for couples and families, excellent half board, outdoor pool with a large garden and sun loungers, free parking
- Alpenhotel Badmeister: Family-run guesthouse at a good price, friendly owners, half board, great for families
🏡 Where to stay in Carinthia
These accommodations include a free Kärnten Card, which gives you free access to lifts and attractions in the area. All guests automatically receive the card when staying for at least one night. The card is valid from 5 April to 2 November 2025.
10. Totes Gebirge
The Totes Gebirge mountain range lies on the border of Styria and Upper Austria and is known for its limestone plateaus, gorges, and crystal-clear mountain lakes.
The name translates to “dead mountains” — not because of danger, but because this treeless area with bare limestone massifs lacks permanent settlements. If you’re looking for a lesser-known part of the Austrian Alps with beautiful scenery, the Totes Gebirge is definitely worth a visit.
The entire area is ideal for hiking, via ferrata routes, mountain hut hikes, and trips around the lakes. Well-known starting points include Bad Aussee, Hinterstoder, and Tauplitz.
Things to do around the Totes Gebirge
Lake Almsee
Almsee is one of the most beautiful lakes in Austria. Its turquoise water lies directly beneath the limestone walls of the Totes Gebirge. There is a short walking trail around the lake and several resting spots nearby. You can drive right up to the lake, where you’ll find a small free car park.
Limestone plateaus above the Tauplitzalm
The Tauplitzalm is the largest alpine plateau in Central Europe and one of the main hiking areas in the Totes Gebirge. In summer, it transforms into flowering alpine pastures with views of the surrounding peaks.
There are several marked trails here — from easy loops to more demanding hikes. The area is accessible by cable car from Tauplitz or by car via a toll road.
Schiederweiher
Schiederweiher is a small lake near Hinterstoder, often described as one of the most beautiful places in Austria. Its calm surface reflects the Spitzmauer and Großer Priel mountains, making it look like a postcard. There is a well-maintained trail to the lake that is also suitable for strollers.
Stodertal Circuit and Prielschutzhaus
If you’re looking for a longer mountain hike, try the route from Hinterstoder towards Prielschutzhaus — the mountain hut below Großer Priel, the highest peak of the Totes Gebirge (2,515 m). The hike is moderately demanding, with alpine meadows, views of the surrounding massifs, and a chance to refresh yourself at the hut. You can even stay overnight and continue the next day.
Salt Trail around Altaussee
On the eastern side of the mountains, you can visit the spa town of Altaussee and follow the trail around the lake of the same name. The Salt Trail, which commemorates the history of salt extraction in the region, runs along this route. It is an easy hike along well-maintained paths with views of Dachstein and the Totes Gebirge.
These were our tips for the Austrian Alps and ideas on where to go for holidays, day trips, and hikes. Do you have any questions? Feel free to ask in the comments below — we’ll be happy to help. Have a safe journey!
More information about the Alps
AUSTRIAN ALPS: Here are the best things to do in the Austrian Alps. Or head straight to Tyrol or the Hohe Tauern National Park. Other popular destinations in the Austrian Alps include the Dachstein mountain range and the beautiful Lake Achensee.
Check out our detailed travel guide with things to do in Zell am See. Or are you tempted by Carinthia? In this article, we’ve listed the most beautiful places in Carinthia.
Wolfgangsee is another of Austria’s most beautiful lakes, with opportunities for swimming and plenty of activities in the surrounding area.
BAVARIAN ALPS: Get inspired by the best things to do in the Bavarian Alps.
DOLOMITES: We have prepared a detailed guide with tips for the best hikes and hiking routes in the Dolomites.
Passo Pordoi is our favourite mountain pass in the Dolomites. For hiking routes in the Sassolungo area, see our article on Passo Sella.
