The Best of Austrian Mountains This Summer

When most UK holidaymakers consider the Austrian Alps, they think about snowy slopes and cold-weather breaks. But tucked away within the coronary heart of SalzburgerLand lies Altenmarkt-Zauchensee, a vacation spot that shines shiny in summer time. Combining vibrant village life with mountain alpine journey, this twin resort affords immersive experiences: from themed household hikes and high-altitude eating to music lakeside and thermal wellness. Right here’s every little thing one wants to contemplate to unlock the complete summer time attraction of this area.

A Twin-Resort Delight

Altenmarkt is a quintessential Tyrolean market city, the place flower-adorned balconies overlook cobbled lanes, and native bakeries fill the air with the scent of heat apfelstrudel. Only a quick drive uphill, Zauchensee, perched at round 1,350 m, affords a tranquil alpine haven with glassy lakes, contemporary mountain air, and chalet rooftops rising in opposition to jagged peaks. Collectively, these two contrasting but complementary locations create a wealthy backdrop for summer time exploration—equally suited to laid-back discovery and high-energy journey.

Mountain climbing: Alpine Exploration for All Ages

With an in depth community of over 220 km of marked mountain climbing trails, Altenmarkt-Zauchensee is a paradise for walkers of each skill—from households with younger kids to skilled summit seekers. The terrain is as diverse as it’s spectacular, providing dense forests, flower-strewn meadows and dramatic ridgelines.

Summit hikes such because the path to Lackenkogel present sweeping 360-degree views of the encircling mountains—preferrred for hikers in search of a rewarding problem. In the meantime, mild panoramic trails round Altenmarkt and mid-level routes close to Zauchensee cater to extra leisurely walkers.

For households, the resort shines with its themed trails just like the Moon Path and Fairy Story Path, which combine storytelling components, interactive studying stations, and play-based options to maintain younger explorers engaged all through the journey. These well-marked circuits are designed to show a easy stroll right into a forest journey.

One of many space’s premier highlights is Journey Mountain Gamskogel, simply reached through the Gamskogelbahn cable automotive. Working from the centre of Zauchensee, this elevate carries guests swiftly to alpine heights the place a community of trails unfolds. Right here, scenic boardwalks, wildlife remark huts, and interpretation stations supply an immersive mountain expertise for all ages. On choose mornings in July and August, the cable automotive opens as early as 4.45 am for a dawn ascent, permitting early risers to get pleasure from a tranquil breakfast at Gamskogelhütte.

Mountain climbing at Altenmarkt-Zauchensee isn’t nearly distance or elevation—it’s concerning the tales informed alongside the best way, the ecosystems encountered, and the quiet thrill of transferring by a few of Austria’s most picturesque alpine landscapes. Whether or not strolling with a pushchair or a trekking pole, each path right here results in a memorable expertise.

Extra info: Mountain climbing in Altenmarkt-Zauchensee

Biking and E-Biking Nirvana

Altenmarkt-Zauchensee is a biking haven, providing over 500 km of meticulously mapped biking trails that cater to each kind of rider—from households pedalling by flower-dotted meadows to hardened mountain bikers craving alpine adrenaline. The area’s numerous terrain ensures that every experience delivers each surroundings and problem, framed by breathtaking views of the Salzburg Alps.

For these in search of relaxed exploration, valley facet loops and riverside paths supply an excellent introduction. The well-known Ennsradweg (Enns Cycle Path) begins in close by Flachauwinkl and gently winds its method by Altenmarkt, following the Enns River by picturesque countryside, historic villages, and shaded woodland. It’s good for households or informal cyclists, with loads of relaxation stops, playgrounds, and picnic spots alongside the route.

Extra skilled riders will gravitate in direction of the Stoneman Taurista—a legendary alpine circuit that spans 147 km and consists of 4,700 vertical metres of ascent. This route challenges even seasoned mountain bikers with steep climbs, rocky forest trails, and spectacular high-alpine phases that cross a number of peaks, providing unmatched panoramic moments.

In the meantime, the Zauchensee Bike Area and surrounding forest routes supply dynamic circuits for e-bike riders and path fans. E-bike rent is broadly obtainable in each Altenmarkt and Zauchensee, enabling riders of all health ranges to comfortably ascend to panoramic viewpoints and discover prolonged networks. Charging stations are positioned at a number of huts and lodges, encouraging long-distance discovery with out vary nervousness.

The area additionally affords guided bike excursions, expertise coaching for newbies, and household biking occasions all through the summer time months, making a welcoming ambiance for newcomers. All routes are clearly marked, and bike maps with route particulars, gradients, and problem rankings can be found from the native tourism workplace.

Extra info: Biking in Altenmarkt-Zauchensee

Thermal Leisure Meets Household Enjoyable

After a morning on the paths or biking routes, Erlebnis-Therme Amadé affords a welcome change of tempo. This well-designed thermal and leisure centre caters to each households and people in search of leisure, with a mix of energetic points of interest and calming spa zones.

The standout characteristic is Austria’s solely single looping water slide, a fast-paced experience for adventurous guests, whereas a number of different slides, a wave pool, and shallow water play areas hold youthful kids entertained. For these trying to unwind, the centre consists of thermal brine swimming pools, each indoors and outside, providing mild muscle aid after a day’s exercise.

Adults can discover a variety of saunas and steam rooms, together with panoramic and themed choices, whereas devoted quiet zones present area for uninterrupted relaxation. Whether or not visiting to chill off, recharge, or entertain the household, Therme Amadé provides selection and suppleness to any summer time itinerary in Altenmarkt-Zauchensee.

The Reward of Summer season Visitor Playing cards

Altenmarkt-Zauchensee affords glorious worth and suppleness by two all-inclusive regional playing cards designed to boost each side of a summer time vacation. The SalzburgerLand Card is a complete move that unlocks entry to over 180 points of interest throughout the area, starting from scenic gondola lifts and cultural museums to wildlife parks, lake cruises, and gorges just like the dramatic Liechtensteinklamm. It additionally consists of journey on regional public transport, making it straightforward to discover with no automotive. With a three-night keep in Zauchensee, friends also can get pleasure from complimentary rides on the Gamskogelbahn I, including alpine entry to the bundle.

The 12 Peaks Journey Card, obtainable from late June to mid-September, is geared extra in direction of high-altitude fans. It grants entry to 6 of the world’s hottest mountain elevate experiences and consists of entry to pick panoramic mountain climbing trails and reductions on guided excursions. For travellers trying to mix mobility with mountain journey, each playing cards present an environment friendly and cost-effective option to uncover the easiest of the SalzburgerLand area.

A Season of Summer season Occasions

Altenmarkt-Zauchensee springs to life in summer time with a rigorously curated occasion calendar:

Twilight Connoisseur Evenings

Dates: 3 choose Saturdays in July – August
Expertise: Dine at altitude below candlelight, sampling native cheeses, trout, and alpine herbs whereas gazing at sundown over ridge traces.

Lake.Music Competition at Hochnösslersee

Dates: 14th July 2025
Program: Reside music, mountain views, and a picnic from Hochnössleralm—summer time afternoons at Hochnösslersee (1,300 m) are pure alpine bliss. Whereas adults loosen up below sunshades, having fun with the sounds and surroundings over native delicacies, children dive right into a free, fun-packed programme of video games and actions. An ideal mix of nature, flavour, and feel-good moments

Extra Info: Summer season Occasions

Why Altenmarkt-Zauchensee Belongs on the UK Vacation Radar

Altenmarkt-Zauchensee affords the right mix of energetic village appeal and peaceable alpine escape, all inside one vacation spot. Households will discover lots to get pleasure from, from water slides and themed hikes to scenic gondola rides and mountaintop meals. The SalzburgerLand and 12 Peaks Journey playing cards present straightforward, cost-effective entry to lifts, swimming pools, and cultural points of interest, making spontaneous days out easy. With conventional festivals, free public transport, and wellness services for post-adventure leisure, it’s a well-rounded, accessible summer time alternative simply an hour from Salzburg.

Altenmarkt-Zauchensee is greater than Austria’s low season various—it’s a full-throttle summer time vacation spot. Thoughtfully curated paths, playing cards that unlock an array of locations, energetic occasions, and a spectrum of lodging choices make it a superb alternative for UK holidaymakers. Whether or not visiting with household, mates, or as a pair, it affords mountain recollections that transcend the ski elevate.

Lech am Arlberg: Austria’s Cool-Headed Summer season Star

In summer time, Lech turns into one thing quietly magnetic. It’s a spot the place severe hikers, reflective wanderers, and households with adventurous teenagers all discover their groove. The air is crisp, the times are lengthy, and the views really feel like they’ve been left untouched by time.

Strolling within the World’s Greatest Silence

Lech is stitched collectively by round 350 km of strolling trails, and also you’d battle to discover a poor one. For one thing scenic however not overly demanding, there’s the Lechweg, a route that meanders alongside the wild Lech River by gorges and previous waterfalls—one among Europe’s final untamed alpine rivers, in the event you like that type of declare.

However for these trying to mix artwork and altitude, there’s the Inexperienced Ring, a three-day round stroll that’s half path, half out of doors gallery. Alongside the best way, hikers move sound sculptures, storytelling benches, and even an open-air stage. It’s like a cultural treasure hunt disguised as a strolling vacation.

Add in a cease at Skyspace Lech, a James Turrell gentle set up buried within the mountainside, and out of the blue you’re not simply stretching your legs—you’re filling your mind.

Biking within the Excessive Nation

Biking in Lech caters to each the Lycra-clad and the leisure-focused. Mountain bikers will discover the Burgwald Path suitably difficult, full with north-shore options and forest switchbacks. However there’s lots for these on electrical bikes or touring tyres too.

Gentler rides by the Zugertal valley take you previous glacial streams and wildflower meadows, with the kind of photo-stops that delay even probably the most time-conscious cyclists. Bike rent is simple to seek out, and the e-bike community is backed by charging stations hidden in scenic spots that double as espresso stops.

A Summer season Diary of Mountain Moments

Time your go to proper and Lech rewards you with greater than surroundings. June brings the Arlberg Basic Automobile Rally, a petrolhead’s dream as classic motors cruise the alpine passes. July and August see open-air concert events, village markets, and the Literaricum Lech—a literary pageant the place philosophy, poetry and good wine intersect.

In September, the Philosophicum Lech attracts worldwide thinkers and curious minds. Image it: debates on ethics and existence, sandwiched between hikes and schnitzel.

Extra Info: Summer season Occasions

Learn how to Get There from the UK

Regardless of its distant really feel, Lech is surprisingly reachable. Probably the most environment friendly route is through Zurich, simply over two hours by street or practice. Innsbruck and Salzburg are additionally viable, particularly for travellers pairing a metropolis break with a mountain escape. From the closest railway stations, buses join on to the village.

A Card That Opens the Mountains

Lech’s Summer season Card, obtainable with most in a single day stays, is one among Austria’s most beneficiant. It covers elevate rides, native buses, entry to the forest swimming pool, guided walks, and even yoga periods on the slopes. For walkers and households, it’s a game-changer—providing each financial savings and spontaneity.

Keep, Eat, and Take It In

Lodging in Lech ranges from polished family-run guesthouses to design motels with wood-panelled saunas and fireplace pits on the terrace. Eating is equally rewarding—lake trout, mountain cheese, and simply sufficient regional aptitude to remind you the place you’re. Gasthof Put up and Resort Arlberg cleared the path in refined alpine hospitality, however there are dozens of mid-range gems too.

Why It Works

Lech in summer time isn’t flashy. It doesn’t shout for consideration. What it affords is extra helpful: area, air, and time to assume. Whether or not you’re pacing the Inexperienced Ring path, sipping wine post-walk, or watching clouds shift inside a Skyspace dome, it delivers on one thing many UK travellers now crave—a high-altitude vacation with depth.

So in case your concept of a summer time escape consists of mountain drama with out the drama, Lech could be Austria’s best-kept secret that skiers forgot to come back again to.

Zell am See–Kaprun: Lake Days, Glacier Mornings and Every thing Between

It’s uncommon to discover a resort that offers you every little thing—a swimmable lake, glacier snowfields, panoramic mountain climbing, and that elusive sense of stillness you solely get at altitude. However Zell am See–Kaprun, tucked neatly between the Hohe Tauern Nationwide Park and the Kitzsteinhorn glacier, pulls it off.

It is a place the place summer time means stand-up paddleboarding earlier than lunch, glacier mountain climbing within the afternoon, and lakeside sundowners come early night. You get glacier peaks and pine forests, spa motels and alpine huts—all with out shedding the down-to-earth appeal that makes Austria such a dependable summer time alternative.

Water, Woods, and Excessive Ridges

Let’s begin at floor stage. The Zeller See is a transparent, clear, remarkably heat lake the place Brits normally overlook they’re within the Alps in any respect—till they give the impression of being up. It’s framed by basic chocolate-box peaks and affords swimming, crusing, and paddleboarding with out the seaweed or sand-in-your-shoes hassle.

However for many who want altitude, the Schmittenhöhe elevate whisks hikers above the tree line in minutes. From the highest, a fan of trails spreads out—lots of them family-friendly, some heading all the best way to Saalbach for the formidable. Look out for the Panorama Path, a leisurely loop with eagle’s-eye views of the lake and valley under.

Then there’s the Kitzsteinhorn Glacier, the place even in July you’ll be able to crunch throughout snowfields at over 3,000 metres. The Gipfelwelt 3000 viewing platform affords one among Austria’s most dramatic vistas—glacier on one facet, summer time valley on the opposite. It’s snow with out skis, and all the higher for it.

Pedal Energy, Minus the Ache

Biking right here isn’t only for the match and fearless. Whereas there are correct climbs and MTB routes into the encircling peaks, there’s additionally the Tauern Cycle Path, a 270 km route that rolls gently down the Salzach Valley—good for households, e-bikers, or anybody not serious about a cardiac take a look at disguised as a vacation.

That stated, mountain bikers can push themselves on trails throughout the Schmittenhöhe and Maiskogel, with gondolas that take the sting off the uphill. Bike rental is easy, e-bikes are broadly obtainable, and native recommendation comes with out perspective.

Summer season Scene and Occasions

There’s a quiet confidence to Zell’s summer time calendar. The city hosts weekly Zeller See Magic Nights, the place music and lightweight reveals play out on the lake. It’s not precisely Glastonbury, however that’s a part of the attraction.

The Glocknerkönig Biking Race (early June) brings hundreds to experience the hairpins of Austria’s highest street, whereas Alpine Craft Beer Days and lakeside yoga festivals hold issues diverse. The close by Kaprun Fort usually phases open-air concert events and medieval gala’s—preferrred for a dose of summer time tradition with mountain air.

Extra Info: Summer season Occasions

Getting There from the UK

By Air: Salzburg Airport is below 90 minutes away, with flights from most main UK cities through Jet2, easyJet, and British Airways.
By Practice: Zell am See has its personal practice station, with direct connections from Salzburg and Innsbruck.
By Automobile: It’s a 1.5–2 hr drive from Salzburg or 2.5 hrs from Munich. Parking is broadly obtainable, and most motels supply pick-up or shuttle hyperlinks.

Summer season Card Comfort

Most lodging supply the Zell am See-Kaprun Summer season Card, which covers almost every little thing: gondolas, lake cruises, native transport, entry to swimming pools, museums, and even the glacier lifts. It’s one among Austria’s most complete and cost-saving vacationer passes, and it turns spontaneous day-tripping into a sensible possibility.

The place to Keep, Eat, and Take It All In

The lakeside Seevilla Freiberg offers you water views with mountain stillness. For these after spa downtime, TAUERN SPA Kaprun affords saunas, steam rooms, and open-air swimming pools with glacier views. Households will really feel at house within the Familotel Amiamo, which incorporates children’ golf equipment and all-inclusive offers that don’t really feel overdone.

Meals-wise, there’s no scarcity of lakeside terraces serving Austrian staples—attempt the Kupferkessel for hearty native classics or Steinerwirt for one thing extra modern with a stellar wine listing.

Why It’s Well worth the Journey

Zell am See–Kaprun isn’t flashy. It doesn’t must be. It’s Austria at its most beneficiant: lakes you’ll be able to swim in, glaciers you’ll be able to stroll on, and surroundings you don’t should earn with ten-mile hikes. For UK travellers, it ticks the large three: quick access, all-ages journey, and sufficient pure drama to make you overlook your inbox.

Whether or not you’re right here for glacier sunrises or lazy lake days, Zell will get below the pores and skin—and stays there lengthy after you’ve packed the strolling boots away.