Most Picturesque Villages to Visit in Western Austria, A Hiker’s Paradise

Austria has been described as a hiker’s paradise countless times, due to the many guided hiking routes that range from challenging mountain trails to more relaxed lake-side paths. First timers and seasoned hikers alike will enjoy walking in Austria, especially in three of the most peaceful and picturesque villages in the state of Tyrol. The landscapes are simply breathtaking, and the villages themselves a cultural melting pot of friendly locals. These spectacular trails are made all the more enriching with the help of a guided group holiday.

Fairytale Village of Alpbach

Voted as the most beautiful village in the country by one of its local TV stations, Alpbach attracts millions of visitors yearly for of its fantastic landscapes, outstanding ski resorts, and superb hiking trails. Alpbach makes walking in Austria a joyful experience, with the superb Gratlspitze Mountain providing a marvellous backdrop for the guided hiking routes and the Alpine valleys allowing for a wider range of trails suited for everyone. More adventurous hikers will enjoy the challenge of higher peaks at the Karwendel Mountains and the Rofan Plateau, and relax at the largest bathing lake in Tyrol that separates the two places, Lake Achen. Meanwhile, a day-long guided hike starting from Sagtaler to Inneralpbach to pick blueberries may appeal to others for a more laid-back stroll.

Seefeld, a Summer Haven

Seefeld is well known for cross-country skiing, but it is also an ideal destination for hiking in the summer, when the countryside comes to life with the myriad meadows of flowers in bloom. The town is also ideal for those who keen on a less strenuous but equally as fun experience walking. In Austria, mountain trails abound due to its location in the middle of the Alps, but towns such as Seefeld are situated on a plateau, offering walkers more varied options that don’t involve strenuous climbing. One of the popular guided walks in Seefeld includes several days of trekking through the Karwendel, the largest mountain range in the Northern Limestone Alps. Tour leaders will be able to assist hikers throughout the walk and allow them to enjoy the exploration at their own pace.

Lively Neustift Villaga

Neustift is a major tourist destination in Austria, and is considered as one of the most scenic places in Tyrol. It is located roughly 30 minutes from Innsbruck, Tyrol’s capital city, and is surrounded by a lush pine forest offering breathtaking views of the Stubai Alps. Because walking in Austria has become a more popular holiday activity over recent years, Neustift has attracted more visitors annually. There are several hiking areas in Neustift, all with gondola rides for easy transportation to the higher peaks. There is also a variety guided hiking tours in the Stubaital Valley, along trails connected by the valley bus, so visitors can easily traverse the paths and to and from their accommodations.

Tony Maniscalco is the Marketing Manager for Ramblers Worldwide Holidays. Join us on a holiday walking 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.