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20 Best Places to Visit in Austria

Home to some of Europeโ€™s most impressive mountain ranges, river valleys, and alpine lakes, Austria is first and foremost a destination for nature lovers and outdoor explorers.

Many Austria travel itineraries are limited to Vienna, Salzburg City, Innsbruck, and Salzkammergut. Our guide will introduce you to the most spectacular Austrian destinations, on and off the beaten track.

If you’re hoping to find new destinations to explore, I’m confident that this round-up of our favorite places in Austria will inspire you.

To put this post in some context, Kati is Austrian and I (Sabrina) have lived in Austria for quite some time. Continue reading to discover the hidden wonders of Austria.

Lech am Arlberg, Austria

Austria Destinations Map

How to use the map | Click on the map icons to display further information about each destination. Each color signifies a different Austrian state.

Austrian States

Vorarlberg

Tyrol

Salzburg

Carinthia

Styria

Upper Austria

Lower Austria

Vienna

Burgenland


1. Karwendel Nature Park

Nature Reserve in Tirol

Karwendel Nature Park, Austria

The โ€‹โ€‹727 kmยฒ Karwendel Nature Park (“Naturpark Karwendel” in German) encompasses the Karwendel massif, making it the largest protected area in Tyrol as well as the largest nature reserve in Austria.

The 4-chain Karwendel mountain range is massive and can be explored from a number of towns and valleys, including Scharnitz and Seefeld in Tirol in the west, Innsbruck and Hall in Tirol in the south, and Lake Achensee in the east.

Beyond its impressive size, the Karwendel mountains are staggeringly gorgeous. Picture walls of limestone towering over idyllic green pastures and gurgling river valleys. Imagine dozens of chamois galloping down scree slopes.

Envision mountain huts with sunny outdoor terraces, just begging you to gobble up Knรถdel (dumplings), Kaiserschmarrn (shredded pancakes), and many other tasty Austrian specialties. Thatโ€™s exactly what youโ€™ll experience should you venture to this Tyrolean paradise. 


Things to Do in the Karwendel Mountains

Hike the Karwendel High Trail, a 6-stage hut-to-hut hiking route across the Karwendel mountain range.

Walk through the Wolfsklamm Gorge, starting in Stans.

Cycle or e-bike the Isarradweg from Scharnitz to Kastenalm along the Isar river. 

Visit the GroรŸer Ahornboden (โ€œBig Maple Tree Floorโ€), which is located at the end of the Risstal Valley, and hike to Gamsjoch Peak.

Climb a via ferrata like the Absamer Klettersteig, Innsbrucker Klettersteig, or Hundskopf.

Visit Lake Achensee, the largest lake in Tyrol, and hike the Seekarspitze – Seebergspitze Ridge, Hahnkampl Ridge, Hochiss Peak (Rofan Mountains), and Bรคrenkopf Peak for the best view of Lake Achensee.


2. Hohe Tauern National Park

Protected Natural Area in East Tyrol, Carinthia, and Salzburg

Sandersee Hohe Tauern Austria

Encompassing 1,856 square kilometers, Hohe Tauern National Park is the largest national park in the Alps. The park is divided into a core zone and an outer zone and stretches across the Austrian States of Carinthia, Salzburg, and Tyrol.

A great introduction to Hohe Tauern National Park is the Grossglockner High Alpine Road.

There are also many hiking routes that traverse the protected area, including the Glocknerrunde (Grossglockner Circuit Trail), the Venediger High Trail, the Wiener Hรถhenweg, and the beginning of the Alpe Adria long-distance hiking trail.

Another idea (actually a GREAT idea) is heading to Gschlรถsstal Valley and hiking the Innergschlรถss Glacier Trail


3. Wachau Valley

UNESCO World Heritage Site in Lower Austria

Wachau Valley in Autumn, Austria

The Wachau is an enchanting stretch of the Danube river valley between Melk and Krems in Lower Austria. It’s also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Notable landmarks in the Wachau include the Melk Abbey, Schรถnbรผhel Castle, Aggstein, and the Dรผrnstein Castle Ruins, where Richard the Lionhearted was imprisoned in 1193.

Our favorite thing to do in the Wachau is to hike the Wachau World Heritage Trail. Start with stage 1 between Krems and Dรผrnstein.

With more time, we suggest hiking the Vogelbergsteig and Seekopf and Hirschwand.

Because this is also a notable wine-growing region, we highly recommend visiting a few Heuriger (wine taverns) while youโ€™re out exploring.

When to Visit the Wachau | Autumn

Learn More: Wachau Valley Travel Guide


4. Vienna

Capital of Austria

Schoฬˆnbrunn Gloriette, 13th District, Vienna, Austria

Vienna is a destination for art, music, and architecture enthusiasts. The elegant Austrian capital invites visitors to revel in classical music, tradition, and beauty.

You can spend hours in traditional coffee houses savoring Viennese cakes and drinking espresso drinks with unique Viennese names like Wiener Melange, Verlรคngerter, and Einspรคnner.

Many venture to Vienna to watch a world-class opera at the Vienna State Opera. Many more visit the city to gaze at the intriguing works of secession artists Gustav Klimt and Egon Schiele in the multiple museums scattered across the city.

Read our Vienna City Guide to figure out what to see and do, where to eat, and where to stay. And if youโ€™ve already visited Vienna, why not check out our comprehensive list of Vienna Hidden Gems.

As locals, our favorite thing to do in Vienna is visit rustic wine taverns known as Heurigen.

When to Visit Vienna | You can visit Vienna all-year-round. Our favorite time of year is autumn: September and October. If you’re planning a winter trip to Vienna, read Vienna in December and Vienna in January.


5. Filzmoos

Alpine Village in Salzburg

Rรถtelstein Peak Hike, Filzmoos, Austria

Filzmoos is an alpine village in Salzburg.

Directly facing the Gosaukamm mountains, which form part of the Dachstein range, Filzmoos is an excellent destination for active travelers.

In summer and early fall, we highly recommend driving to Oberhofalmen via the toll road and hiking the Hofpรผrglhรผtte to Sulzenalm Circuit Trail. Savor sumptuous local cuisine in either Wallehenhรผtte, or Krahlehenhรผtte.

Experienced hikers with a head for heights will love the Rรถtelstein peak hike.


Where to Stay in Filzmoos

MeiZeit Lodge is a new hotel in Filzmoos that is quickly becoming the best base in the area for skiing as well as hiking. Guests praise the caring staff, the sunny terrace, the Fit & Well facilities (Finnish pine sauna, BIO herbal sauna, Infrared relaxation loungers, relaxation zone, and Vital drink bar), the generous and varied breakfast buffet, and the overall charm. A bonus of staying here is the complimentary afternoon pie and cake selection served daily in the afternoon.

Look for accommodation in Filzmoos.


6. Hall in Tirol

Historic Town in Tirol

Hall in Tirol, Austria

Hall in Tirol is a town in the Inn Valley, just east of Innsbruck. Its historic center has been beautifully restored, making it a delight to explore on foot. Come here for an afternoon, or base yourself in Hall, when you want to explore Halltal and the Karwendel Nature Park. 

Hall rose to prominence in the 13th century, because of the salt industry. It was actually the most important commercial center in North Tirol. 

Between the years 1244 and 1967, salt was mined 9 km north of town in Hall Valley (Halltal). The relationship between salt and Hall in Tirol can still be seen in the townโ€™s coat of arms, which shows two lions grasping a salt barrel. Even the modern Parkhotel Hall in Tirol was designed to look like a salt barrel.

Hall was even formerly called Solbad Hall, which means โ€œBrinebath Hall.โ€ You can learn more about Hallโ€™s salt mining history in the Mining Museum.


Things to Do in Hall in Tirol

Eat Lunch, or Dinner at Gasthaus Goldener Lรถwe in Hall in Tirol.

Check out the Rathaus (Town Hall).

Learn about Hallโ€™s minting heritage in the Hall Mint Museum.

Explore Karwendel Nature Park.

Hike, or Climb (Absamer Klettersteig) to the Bettelwurfhรผtte.

Hike to Hundskopf Summit.

Visit the Wolf’s Gorge in Stans.

Walk the Stone Pine Path (Zirbenweg), starting in Tulfes and ending in Igls.


Best Place to Stay in Hall in Tirol

Hotel kontor is a darling, boutique hotel in Hall in Tirol, which has been lovingly restored, yet retains its historic essence. Rooms are bright and charming. Breakfast is superb. And, the hosts are attentive and kind. What else could you want?

Look for accommodation in Hall in Tirol


7. Mayrhofen and the Zillertal Alps

Alpine Town and Mountain Range in Tyrol

Berlin High Trail, Zillertal Alps, Austria

The town of Mayrhofen charms visitors with its Tyrolean architecture, live music, hearty Tyrolean food, and shops. It’s the best base for exploring the majestic Zillertal Valley and Alps.

We traveled to Mayrhofen to begin the celebrated Berlin High Trail, a multi-day trek through the Zillertal Alps. You can read our full Berlin High Trail trekking itinerary here

How to Get to Mayrhofen: Take an ร–BB train to Jenbach Bahnhof. From Jenbach, take the Zillertalbahn (Zillertal Train) to Mayrhofen in Zillertal. 

When to Visit Mayrhofen: Mayrhofen is an all-year-round destination. For summer hiking, we recommend coming here between mid-June and early-October.


Where to Stay in Mayrhofen

We stayed in the 4-star Alpenhotel Kramerwirt, a family-run hotel in the center of Mayrhofen. Itโ€™s a convenient 4-minute walk from the train/bus station. This authentic Austrian hotel exhibits a high standard of hospitality, food, and comfort. We loved the spaciousness, light, bedding, and design of our โ€œSuperior Room.โ€ And that breakfast buffet – priceless!

Book your Stay at Alpenhotel Kramerwirt.


8. Graz

Capital of Styria

Graz - Best Places to Visit in Austria

Graz is the oh-so-darling capital of Styria. Itโ€™s actually Austriaโ€™s second-largest city, though it feels more like a town.

Graz impresses immediately with its beautiful architecture and laid-back atmosphere. Begin your day trip to Graz in the cityโ€™s Old Town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The historical center sports splendidly medieval facades as well as visionary modern buildings. From the Old Town, head to Schlossberg (Castle Hill).

The uphill walk will take you to the iconic Uhrturm (clock tower), where youโ€™ll have a great view of the city.

When to Visit Graz | Any time of the year. However, some attractions are closed during the winter.


Where to Stay in Graz

Aiola Living Graz is a modern, boutique hotel in the historic center of Graz. Boasting a stylish and vibrant interior and healthy breakfast, Aiola is the perfect base for exploring Styria’s capital.

Look for accommodation in Graz.


9. Lake Lรผnersee

Alpine Lake in Vorarlberg

Schafgafall, Lรผnersee, Vorarlberg, Austria

Lรผnersee (1970 m) is a large alpine lake in the Austrian State of Vorarlberg.

Made extremely accessible by the Lรผnerseebahn, the cableway that connects Brandnertal to the lake, this alpine destination is for everyone. People of all ages come here to walk, fish, hike and climb.

Lรผnersee is the starting point for many hikes in the Rรคtikon Alps – the limestone mountain range that straddles the border between Austria, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein. In a single day, you can even cross into Switzerland. 

If youโ€™re visiting for the day, you can hike the circuit trail around the lake (2 hours, 6.1 km) and detour to Schafgafall Peak. You can also hike to Gafalljoch ridge as part of your circuit (3 hours, 8.7 km). Experienced hikers should summit Schesaplana (2964 m), the highest mountain in the Rรคtikon. 

When youโ€™re hungry, head to Douglasshรผtte for lunch. This hut is conveniently located next to the cableway station. The food is delicious and the service is outstanding.

On the other side of the lake, you can grab a snack at Lรผnersee Alpe. Another option is to hike up to Totalphรผtte, a mountain hut positioned above the lake, on the trail to Schesaplana. Their Apfelstrudel is to die for.

How to Get to Lรผnersee: If youโ€™re relying on transit, take a train to Bludenz. From the Bludenz train station, you can hop on bus line 81 to Lรผnerseebahn. 

When to Visit Lรผnersee: Late May – Early October. 

Learn More: How to Visit Lรผnersee


Best Places to Stay near Lรผnersee

We recommend staying in Brand in Brandnertal (Brandner Valley).

Top Choice – Midrange | Hotel Lรผn is a lovingly-run, CO2-neutral hotel with 15 rooms in Brand, about halfway between the Palรผdbahn and Dorfbahn cableways. This small hotel stands out with its organic, homemade breakfast and rejuvenating wellness area (3 saunas, tea bar, and relaxation room). Read our Hotel Lรผn review.

Midrange | Hotel Garni Tannleger B&B offers modern well-kept rooms in the village of Brand. Guests are treated to a lovely breakfast. If you stay here 2+ nights during the summer season (May – October), you will be given a premium guest card, which gives you free and unlimited use of the local cableways (including the Lรผnersee cable car). 

Luxury | Hotel Sarotla is a luxury hotel with an on-site restaurant, bar, and wellness area directly across from the Dorfbahn cableway valley station and next to a golf course in the heart of Brand.

Alternatively, you can stay on the Tschengla Plateau, if you’re traveling with a car. Check out the all-inclusive Schillerkopf Alpine Resort.

Look for accommodation in Brandnertal


10. Gosau Lakes

Alpine Lakes in Upper Austria

Vorderer Gosausee, Lake Gosau, Dachstein, Austria

Gosauseen are three lakes in the Dachstein mountains in Upper Austria: Vorderer Gosausee, Gosaulacke, and Hinterer Gosausee. You can spend a whole day walking, hiking or climbing around these scenic lakes.

The largest lake, Vorderer Gosausee, is easy to access, as itโ€™s only a few minutes away from the parking lot.

Once you arrive, you can walk along a flat trail that circuits the lake. You can also hike to the other Gosau Lakes, Gosaulacke (969 m) and Hinterer Gosausee (1154 m), which takes 1:30 hours one-way.

At Hinterer Gosausee, youโ€™ll find an alpine pasture hut, Hohe Holzmeister Alm, that serves food and refreshments to hungry hikers. 

For more impressive views of the Dachstein and Gosaukamm ridge, ride the Gosaukammbahn cable car. From the top station, you can walk to Zwieselalm (a good option if traveling with kids), tackle the Donnerkogel via ferrata route, or hike the Gosaukamm circuit trail (1-2 days).

When to Visit Gosau Lakes | (May) June – October, depending on snow conditions.

Tip | You can stay directly at the lake at Gasthof Gosausee.

Learn More: Gosau Lakes Travel Guide


11. South Styria Wine Region

Wine Region in Sรผdsteiermark

South Styria - Best Places to Visit in Austria

South Styria (Sรผdsteiermark) is a region in the Austrian State of Styria (Steiermark), bordering Slovenia.

This is one of Austriaโ€™s most celebrated wine regions.

You can spend days visiting wineries and traditional wine taverns (Buschenschรคnke). 

When to Visit South Styria | Autumn

Learn More: Wine tasting in South Styria


Where to Stay in South Styria

We stayed at Jaglhof by Domaines Kilger in Gamlitz. Overlooking rolling vineyards, this serene hotel offers unbeatable sunrise and sunset views. We loved the comfort of our bedroom (bedding, mattress, Nespresso machine, bathrobes, bathtub) and the delicious cuisine served in the on-site restaurant.

Book your Stay at Jaglhof by Domaines Kilger.


12. Grossglockner High Alpine Road

Alpine Road in Salzburg and Carinthia 

Grossglockner High Alpine Road, Austria

The Grossglockner High Alpine Road (GroรŸglockner HochalpenstraรŸe in German) is a paved serpentine road that steers you into the heart of Hohe Tauern National Park and directly to the base of the Grossglockner (3,798 m), Austriaโ€™s highest mountain.

If youโ€™re looking for beautiful places in Austria, this scenic road delivers beautiful landscapes at every turn.

Read our Grossglockner High Alpine Road post to discover the best lookout points and hiking trails along Austriaโ€™s most stunning mountain road. 

When to Drive the Grossglockner High Alpine Road | Early May to early November. See Opening hours.


Where to Stay along the Grossglockner High Alpine Road

The Grossglockner road stretches between Fusch an der GroรŸglocknerstraรŸe in Salzburg and Heiligenblut am GroรŸglockner in Carinthia. You can drive in either direction, so you have a range of possibilities in terms of where to stay, including Heiligenblut and Bruck an der GroรŸglocknerstraรŸe.

Wallackhaus RegioJet Hotels is located directly on the Grossglockner High Alpine Road in the middle of Hohe Tauern National Park. Not surprisingly, the mountain views are to die for. Expect clean rooms and sumptuous food.

Look for accommodation in Heiligenblut am GroรŸglockner


13. Felsentherme in Bad Gastein

Spa & Wellness complex in Salzburg

Felsentherme Bad Gastein, Austria
ยฉ Max Steinbauer Photography

Bad Gastein is a spa and ski town in the Hohe Tauern mountains of Salzburg. If youโ€™re planning a ski holiday in the Gastein Valley, head to the Felsentherme thermal spa complex after a long day on the slopes.

Or, if youโ€™re visiting in summer and experiencing bad weather, Felsentherme is a great option for those moody, rainy days in the mountains. 

The thermal waters of Felsentherme are sourced from 18 hot springs. There are several indoor and outdoor pools where you can swim and soak in the mineral-rich waters.

We highly recommend spending most of your time in the sauna area. The sauna complex is for adults only and is strictly textile-free (no bathing suits allowed). Here, you can enjoy 8 different saunas and steam rooms on two different levels along with pools, showers, and relaxation rooms.

Donโ€™t miss the saline grotto. Surrounded by alpine scenery, thereโ€™s no better place to relax and unwind.

SalzburgerLand Cardholders get free access for four hours.  

When to Visit Bad Gastein | December – March (for skiing) and late-June to late-September (for hiking).

Learn More: How to Visit an Austrian Therme


14. Lechtal Alps

Mountain Range in Tirol and Vorarlberg

Lechtal Alps, Austria

The Lechtal Alps (Lechtaler Alpen) are a mountain range in Tirol and Vorarlberg, bounded by the Lechtal (Lech Valley) and the Inntal (Inn Valley).

Though itโ€™s the largest range in the Northern Limestone Alps, these mountains are wildly unknown. 

We loved trekking across this range whilst hiking the final 6 stages of the Eagle Walk (Adlerweg).

The Eagle Walk is a 33-stage hut-to-hut hiking trail that traverses the Austrian Stage of Tirol. You can read about our trek here: Hiking the Eagle Walk across the Lechtal Alps.


15. Hochkรถnig Mountains

Mountain Range in Salzburg

Hochkeil, Mรผhlbach High Trail, Hochkรถnig Region, Salzburg, Austria

The Hochkรถnig massif contains the highest peaks of the Berchtesgaden Alps, a range shared by Austria and Germany.

The Hochkรถnig holiday region encompasses the towns of Maria Alm, Dienten, and Mรผhlbach.

This is a popular destination in both summer and winter. We visited several times in the summer, hiking segments of the Salzburger Almenweg (Salzburg Alpine Pasture Way).

We recommend eating lunch at Pronebenalm, walking the Mรผhlbach High Trail, watching the sunrise at Hochkeil, and hiking up to Taghaube.

When to Visit Hochkรถnig | December – March (for skiing) and late-June to early-mid October (for hiking).

Learn More: Best Hikes in Salzburg


Best Place to Stay in the Hochkรถnig Holiday Region

SEPP – Alpine Boutique Hotel is an adults-only hotel, with an on-site restaurant and bar, located in Maria Alm am Steinernen Meer. This standout hotel creates a one-of-a-kind experience through attention to detail, a relaxing atmosphere, laid-back brunch (served until 1 pm) with organic and local ingredients, a rooftop pool, and spectacular mountain views. SEPP is especially cherished for its friendly and attentive staff.

Look for accommodation in Mรผhlbach am Hochkรถnig.


16. Schladminger Tauern

Mountain Range in Styria and Salzburg

Hiking Schladminger Tauern High Trail, Austrian Alps - Best places to visit in Austria

The Schladming Tauern mountains are a subrange of the Austrian Central Alps and are located in the Austrian federal states of Salzburg and Styria (Steiermark).

The closest town, or transportation hub, is Schladming. This is one of Austriaโ€™s premier skiing destinations. However, summer is also an incredible time to visit. We hiked across the range on the Schladminger Tauern High Trail, a 5 stage hut to hut hike, and it was spectacular. 

And, we returned a few years to do more day hiking in Schladming.

When to Visit Schladminger Tauern | December – March (for skiing) and late-June to late-September (for hiking).


Best Place to Stay in Schladming

Stadthotel Brunner is a modern and barrier-free boutique hotel situated in the town center of Schladming. If you appreciate clean, yet creative interior design, you’ll love staying here. Moreover, Stadthotel Brunner is the perfect retreat for anyone who wants to integrate wellness, yoga, and Ayurvedic cuisine into their vacation. If you visit between mid-May and mid-October, the Schladming-Dachstein Summer Card is included in the hotel rate. This guest card offers many free benefits and discounts, including free use of local cable cars and buses.

Look for accommodation in Schladming.


17. Tennengebirge

Mountain Range in Salzburg

Tennengebirge, Do Re Mi Sound of Music Filming Location - Best Places to Visit in Austria

Tennengebirge (Tennen Mountains) is a small mountain range in the Northern Limestone Alps. Can you guess in which movie youโ€™ve seen these rugged mountains? You know it!

They form the backdrop of the famous Do Re Mi musical scene in the Sound of Music. Watch the clip again, and take note of the castle in the background as well. Thatโ€™s Burg Hohenwerfen.

This Sound of Music filming location is located on Gschwandtanger Meadow and it’s accessible by foot or car from the town Werfen. 

Our favorite place in the Tennengebirge mountains is Wengerau in Werfenweng. From Wengerau, you can hike to the mountain huts Werfener Hรผtte or Dr. Heinrich Hackel Hรผtte. We wrote about the hike to Werfener Hรผtte in Best Hikes in Salzburg.

You can also revel in the alpine scenery whilst eating a delicious meal at Wengau Alm – no hike necessary. This alpine pasture hut is a mere 2-minute walk from the parking lot. The food and the views don’t disappoint. 

When to Visit Tennengebirge | Late-June to late-September


Best Place to Stay in the Tennen Mountains

Travel Charme Bergresort Werfenweng is a 4-star superior mountain resort hotel with fantastic spa facilities, indoor and outdoor pools, stunning mountain views, and a great breakfast. The fresh interior was imagined by Italian designer Lorenzo Bellini.

Look for accommodation in Werfenweng.


18. Hohenwerfen Castle

Castle in Salzburg

Hohenwerfen Castle, Salzburg, Austria

Cradled by the Berchtesgaden Alps and the Tennengebirge, the 900-year-old Hohenwerfen fortress stands proud atop a steep rock overlooking the Salzach Valley. The fortified medieval castle was constructed in 1077 under Archbishop Gebhard during the investiture conflict. 

Gebhard was an ally to Pope Gregory VII who was in continuous conflict with King Henry IV of Germany (Holy Roman Emperor). The building of this castle along with Hohensalzburg and Petersberg Castle was meant to secure the route across the Eastern Alps against the forces of the Holy Roman Emperor. 

Today, the castle is open to the public. Castle entry and the guided tour are included in the SalzburgerLand Card. While a visit to the castle is worthwhile, we were disappointed in the way in which guided tours were organized. You can only access the interior of the castle on a tour. 

Though tours are only conducted in German, audio guides are available in multiple languages. That means that youโ€™ll have to join a German-conducted guided tour whilst listening to your audio guide. 

When to Visit Hohenwerfen Castle | Early April to early November. See opening hours.


Where to Stay near Hohenwerfen Castle

Berghotel Garni Burgblick Adults Only is a budget-friendly bed and breakfast in Werfen, with the best views of Hohenwerfen Castle.

Look for accommodation in Werfen


19. Montafon

Valley in Vorarlberg

Lake Tilisunasee, Rรคtikon Alps hut to hut hike, Austria

Montafon is an alpine valley that stretches from Bludenz to Bielerhรถhe in Vorarlberg, Austria. This 39-km-long valley is bounded by the impressive Verwall, Silvretta, and Rรคtikon mountain ranges. 

For decades, Montafon has been a beloved skiing destination. In the 1920s, the great American novelist Ernest Hemingway spent winters writing, skiing, and playing cards in the valley. 

While winter is the premiere season in Montafon, summer tourism is picking up each year, as insiders are discovering the regionโ€™s riveting hiking trails, lofty peak summits, charming Hรผtten, active dairy farms, and alpine lakes. 

We love this region of Austria because it manages to exhibit a spirit of openness alongside its many deeply-rooted traditions. 

When to Visit Montafon Valley | Summer (for hiking, climbing, and cycling) or Winter (for skiing). Restaurants and hotels close between the main tourist seasons. 


Things to Do in Montafon Valley

Hike the Montafon Hut-to-Hut Circuit (Montafon Hรผttenrunde) across the Silvretta Alps. 

Hike the Hohes Rad Circuit Trail.

Drive the Silvretta High Alpine Road.

Eat Montafoner Sura Kees (Sauerkรคse) at an Alpe (alpine dairy) like Vergaldaalpe in Gargellen. 

Drive winter away at a traditional Funken (bonfire) celebration. Learn more here and here.

Watch the Alpabtrieb (pasture drive) processions in September. 

Visit Wormser Hรผtte for one of the best views of the Montafon Valley.

Eat regional and local food at Lรถwen Gaststube in Tschagguns.

Skiing and other winter activities. 


Where to Stay in Montafon Valley

We recommend staying in Schruns-Tschagguns – the largest and liveliest village in Montafon Valley. We stayed at Lรถwen Hotel Montafon, a 4-star superior hotel in Schruns. This hotel enthralls with its alpine-chic interior design, massive spa and wellness area, and three restaurants.

Weโ€™ve never encountered a more professional and synchronized staff as we did at Lรถwen. If you stay here, even rainy days are perfect days, because you can luxuriate in the wellness area all day. 

Book your stay at Lรถwen Hotel.


20. Virgental Valley

Valley in East Tyrol and Gateway to the Venediger Group

Hinterbichl, Virgental, Hohe Tauern, Austria - Best Places to Visit in Austria

Virgental Valley is a scenic valley in East Tyrol, extending from the town of Matrei in Osttirol. Virgental is also a gateway to the Venediger Mountain Group of Hohe Tauern National Park.

Itโ€™s an incredible base for hiking, as you can access several mountain huts and lakes from the valley.

The famous multi-day treks Venediger High Trail and Lasรถrling High Trail both begin in Virgental as well. Itโ€™s a peaceful and quiet destination, allowing you to absorb your natural surroundings and the clean alpine air. Furthermore, the landscapes arenโ€™t corrupted by ugly chairlifts or cut ski slopes.

A string of small villages is located along the valley, including Hinterbichl, Prรคgraten, Wallhorn, Bobojach, Virgen, Mitteldorf, and a few more. 


Where to Stay in Virgental

We recommend staying in Hinterbichl. From here, you can access several trails by foot and hike to Umbalfรคlle (waterfall), Clara Hรผtte, Essener Rockstocker Hรผtte, Neue Reichenberger Hรผtte, and other destinations. 

We stayed at Heimat Hotel, where we were treated to a bountiful breakfast buffet, including homemade jams and chutneys, regional and organic cheeses and meats, and a muesli bar.

Book your Stay in Virgental.


More Austria Travel Guides

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Winter in Austria:

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Best Places to Visit in Austria

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Sabrina Brett

Hello! Iโ€™m a spirited traveler on a quest to hike in the most picturesque alpine and coastal destinations across Europe. In 2016, I left my home and job in San Francisco, California, to move to Germany, and later Austria. The following year, I created this blog to help like-minded travelers experience new and exciting ways to travel authentically. I travel to hike, and I hope to inspire your next adventure.

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