Walking Holidays In Austria: Choose Your Own Alpine Adventure!

Any hiker worth their salt will have walking holidays in Austria near the very top of their "must-do" list. The promise of the Austrian Alps – made famous by the immortal film The Sound Of Music – and all their challenging peaks are enough to make any mountaineering enthusiast’s mouth water. It is unsurprising that, next to ski trips, hiking trips are the most popular type of holiday booked to that particular region.

One of the best things about walking holidays in Austria and visiting the Alps is just how much variety the country offers to lovers of trekking and climbing. The sheer amount of mountain ranges in the country makes for an enticing array of potential Alpine adventures to indulge in. And the best part is, not all of them imply several days of camping in the wilderness. In fact, a few can be had within manageable distance of the capital, Vienna.

Where to hike

Those who prefer to benefit from some basic comforts during their walking holidays in Austria – rather than fully embrace the backpacker lifestyle – will be glad to know that is entirely possible. Within less than an hour and a half drive from the capital, the mountain ranges of Upper Styria and Lower Austria offer enough variety to fuel several day-trips’ worth of exploration - all while being able to return to the comfort of one’s city hotel afterwards. Sore feet and tired legs will certainly appreciate the kindness...

Those who prefer to have an authentic hiking experience during their walking holidays in Austria, however, will not be at a loss either. The Inner Salzkammergut region provides enough peaks to whet the appetite of even the most avid hiker, and challenges range from pure mountain trails to large, comfortable dedicated paths – both overlooking stunning and romantic mountain landscapes. A number of themed hikes are also possible in this region, such as one centring on the figures carved from tree-trunks that can be found scattered around the region. The grandiose Lake Halstatt completes the set of arguments in favour of a visit to this region, for both dedicated hikers and those taking a gentler break with their families.

It is clear, then, that a trip to this beautiful country will allow hikers to choose from any number of Alpine experiences to indulge in – almost like those old ‘Choose Your Own Adventure’ books you used to read as a child! The main difference is you'll be replacing the monsters and damp tunnels with stunning landscapes and challenging peaks.

Tony Maniscalco is the Marketing Manager for Ramblers Worldwide Holidays. Join us on a holiday walking holidays in Austria to see the most scenic locations & landscapes at the best value prices. We offer over 140 guided group walking holidays in over 60 different countries.

Writer and Online Marketing Manager in London.