SUMMER IN AUSTRIA – BETWEEN CITIES AND ALPINE REGIONS

From unspoiled nature to trendy urban centres

Austria makes for an exciting summer destination that offers unparalleled versatility. Whether you’re a fan of extensive hiking, discovering new things or exploring historic city centres, the country provides something for everyone.

Many people flock to the Alpine country of Austria for their winter holidays as the mountainous landscapes invite for extensive skiing and other winter sport activities. What many people forget, though, is that Austria also makes for a perfect summer holiday destination. Let’s find out why.

VORARLBERG. PHOTO © OBERHAUSER PHOTOGRAPHY, VORARLBERG TOURISMUS

Unspoiled nature

Are you a fan of Alpine meadows, breathtaking hikes surrounded by blooming flowers and beautiful mountain peaks, relaxing at deep blue lakes, action-packed active holidays and marvelling at dramatic landscapes? Then Austria is the perfect destination for you. Visitors can leave the crowds behind and find unspoiled nature throughout the entire country. From challenging climbs to gentle strolls in wildlife parks, panoramic views come as standard in Austria.

One of our favourite hikes is the ‘Pinzgauer Spaziergang’ in Zell am See, Kaprun which takes around five to six hours. The path leads you across mesmerising mountain plateaus and along a ridgeway high in the hills, while being perfect for intermediate hikers. Or how about the Wildpark Aurach Wild Animal Park Preserve in Kitzbühel? The park is home to around 200 animals and lies at 1,100 metres above sea level. Watch the deer, wild boar, lynx or peacocks while taking the entire family on an exciting walk through nature. Of course, these are just a few examples of many awesome hikes in Austria.

VORARLBERG. PHOTO © DIETMAR DENGER, VORARLBERG TOURISMUS

Bustling city centres

For those who are constantly looking to explore new things, Linz might be a good destination. Here, the unexpected, the edgy and the authentic is the norm. Foodies should head to the relaxed city of Graz which sports a Mediterranean flair and many cultural highlights. In Innsbruck, imperial elegance meets natural beauty. In Vienna, you can explore awesome museums before heading to one of the cute vineyards that surround the city. And in Salzburg, an interesting blend of culture, music and nature awaits visitors. The choice is yours.

CITY OF SALZBURG. PHOTO ÖSTERREICH WERBUNG, JULIUS SILVER ©

Age-old traditions

Dreamy mountain villages and age-old traditions are also as much a part of Austria as skiing and trendy cities. Why not head to the Alpbachtal region in Tirol? Many first-time visitors doubt that the place is even real at first glance. After all, Alpbach was named Austria’s most beautiful village for a reason: picturesque wooden houses set against a rugged mountain backdrop make for an especially impressive sight!

Need inspiration on where to stay on your summer holiday in Austria? Be sure to read the following special theme. www.discovergermany.com