Anyone who has been to Austria will almost certainly remember their stay. Mountain landscapes, sparkling lakes, architectural masterpieces, ancient cities, modern facilities, and great cuisine make up the very best of Austria. Whether you are in the beautiful Salzkammergut, cycling along the Austrian Danube or hiking in the more traditional Tyrol region, a holiday in Austria offers something for everyone.
Austria stretches from the snow-capped Alps in the west to the flat steppes of the Puszta in the east, from vast forest areas in the north to landscapes with a Mediterranean feeling in the south. Hilly landscapes, wetlands, and popular lakes lie in between.
Whether you are looking for an active cycling holiday or a walking holiday in Austria, there is a region that is right for you.
Natural wonders
The six Austrian National Parks with wide steppes, wild primaeval and shady forests and regions of glacier ice are also inspiring with their rich flora and fauna. They can be experienced on foot, by bike, on horseback, by canoe or on a canyoning tour. Whether you are in the Tyrol, Styria, Salzburg, Vorarlberg, Burgenland, Upper and Lower Austria or in the Vienna region, Austria is a paradise for active holidaymakers both in summer and winter. Health and well-being are also taken care of with extensive spa complexes that provide opportunities for relaxation.
Dramatic natural attractions, the imposing Alps, historic buildings in modern cities and great cuisine create the special aura that Austria has made the country so appealing. Whether in the picturesque Salzkammergut, traditional Salzburgerland, the mountainous Tyrol area, the Danube or the Austrian Alps, an active holiday will be a memorable experience.
Salzkammergut
The Mozart-influenced city of Salzburg and its surroundings are one of the most popular areas in Austria. High mountains, valleys, impressive cultural monuments, and beautiful landscapes await the hiker and cyclist. The famous Salzkammergut extends over three Austrian provinces: Salzburg, Upper Austria and Styria.
There are also 80 beautiful lakes, and it is not surprising that so many people visit this part of Europe every year. Breath-taking hiking trails in the Salzkammergut and the lakes regions will show you the real beauty of the region.
Wachau and Danube
During a walking or cycling holiday in the Wachau region, you’ll instantly see just how the mighty Danube meanders through the beautiful landscape and why it appeals to cyclists, hikers, and wine lovers. The sparkling white wines from the Wachau are among the best wines in Austria and the quality is comparable to other fine wines produced around the world.
More than half of Austria consists of alpine mountains, and this is why it is such a great place to go on an active holiday. There are active holidays available in Austria that are suitable for all levels of experience and the Danube Cycle Path remains one of the most popular cycle routes in all of Europe.
Alpe Adria Cycle Path
The 415-kilometre Alpe Adria Cycle Path connects Salzburg with the Italian coast and is one of Europe’s up-and-coming cycle routes. After exploring Salzburg and then heading towards St. Johann im Pongau, you’ll soon reach the Carinthia region. Authentic Austrian customs, tasty food and warm hospitality feature on this cycle route. You’ll follow the official route through Italy before arriving in Grado, a famous spa town that overlooks the Adriatic Sea. This is one of Europe’s best cycle routes and is a wonderful way to cross the Alps without going over the high-mountain passes.
Weather
The climate in Austria is ideal for hiking and cycling. You can look forward to sunny spring days with pleasant temperatures. The summer can sometimes get very hot in Austria, especially in the east. Fortunately, there is almost always a lake nearby where you can cool off and go swimming. In the autumn, you’ll find warm temperatures and it is still possible to go on a walking or cycling holiday. Don't forget your rain gear though. After all, Austria’s green forests and blooming flower meadows need to be watered every now and then!
The famous Austrian cuisine
Not all famous Austrian foods come from Austria. Influences from Bohemia, Bavaria, Italy and, of course, Hungary, have made Austria the great culinary country it is today. Most people have heard of the Wiener Schnitzel, but what about spicy beef goulash, delicious roast pork with parsley and potatoes or the famous Sacher Torte? The list of delicious dishes is almost endless and can be found in a traditional Austrian Gasthof or beer hall. You might have to cycle or walk a bit further to burn off some of the best dishes though!
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Active on Holiday is part of the Eurofun Group. For more than three decades, they have experience as a tour operator and have set the standard in active holidays. With a focus on cycling holidays, walking holidays, active family holidays and cruising & cycling, we can offer a wide range of active holidays throughout Europe to suit all abilities. All holidays include luggage transfers and local support.
You can contact us by telephone by calling our UK-based booking line on 0044(0)1706 618155. You can reach us from Monday to Friday from 09:00 to 17:00. Our website is continually updated and we will be able to answer any questions that you may have about specific tours.