The Austrian Alps are renowned for their skiing prowess, a deserved reputation given their dramatic sweep across Austria.
Marked by rugged granite peaks, spectacular glaciers, and towering summits exceeding 3000 meters (9,843 feet).
The region boasts a variety of attractions, including pristine national parks, crystal-clear lakes, enchanting old towns, and maze-like alleyways. Whether you're there to explore the alpine beauty in warmer months, the Austrian Alps are packed with essential destinations and plenty of skiing adventures. Here are the top spots you won’t want to miss!
1. Innsbruck
Nestled among mountains, Innsbruck, the Tyrolean capital, serves as an excellent hub for exploring the stunning landscapes of the Austrian Alps. A great starting point is the cable car ride to the Nordkette range, offering breathtaking views above the city's pastel-hued architecture. Don't leave without trying Tyrolean specialties like kaspressknödel, a cheesy dumpling dish, or gröstl, a hearty mix of onion, and potatoes crowned with a fried egg.
2. Sölden
Film buffs and outdoor enthusiasts alike will find Sölden captivating. Known for its appearance in the 2015 James Bond film Spectre, directed by Sam Mendes, Sölden features breathtaking action scenes set against its snowy backdrop. The iconic ice Q restaurant, a glass-walled building situated at an altitude of 3,048m, was transformed into a fictional medical center for the film.
3. Gesäuse National Park
Gesäuse National Park, nestled in Styria, is a natural wonder marked by deep gorges, striking limestone formations, and vigorous white-water rapids. The park's name, meaning roaring perfectly describes the tumultuous Enns river that carves through it. South of the river lies Johnsbach, a member of the Mountaineering Villages initiative by the Austrian Alpine Association, promoting sustainable tourism in the Alps.
4. St Anton
Often hailed as the birthplace of alpine skiing, St Anton owes its fame to local pioneers like Hannes Schneider, who founded the first ski school and developed a revolutionary skiing technique. Now part of Austria’s largest ski area, St Anton is renowned for its consistent snowfall, diverse free-riding options, and vibrant après-ski scene.
5. Werfen
For fans of The Sound of Music, Werfen is a must-visit, located just beyond Salzburg. This charming town is where the iconic Do-Re-Mi scene was filmed, with Hohenwerfen Fortress looming in the background.
6. Grossglockner High Alpine Road
Opened in 1935, the Grossglockner High Alpine Road is a monumental pass through Hohe Tauern National Park, Austria’s largest nature reserve. Operating from May to November, the road showcases majestic views of Austria’s highest peak, Grossglockner, and the expansive Pasterze Glacier.
7. Vorarlberg
Vorarlberg, Austria’s smallest and westernmost state, is a paradise for cheese lovers. Visitors can explore various dairies producing specialties like Vorarlberger Alpkäse and Montafon Sura Kees.
8. Lake Wörthersee
Located near the Slovenian border and encircled by lush foothills, Lake Wörthersee is one of Austria’s largest and most beloved lakes. Known for it's distinctive green-blue waters and warm temperatures in summer, it’s an ideal spot for swimming and relaxation.
9. Saalbach-Hinterglemm
Primarily known as a top ski destination, Saalbach-Hinterglemm has recently expanded it's appeal to embrace other seasons. It has become one of Austria's premier mountain biking hubs, attracting cyclists in the warmer months to explore it's extensive trail network.
