Picture Austria, and a few stereotypes may spring to mind: skiing havens, crispy Schnitzel, or perhaps the lush rolling fields backdropped by snow-capped mountains seen in The Sound of Music. All true and beloved – but there’s more to this central European nation than meets the mind’s eye. From spring through to autumn, the melting snow makes way for flower-speckled meadows and Austria’s alpine regions transform into vast swathes of greenery, featuring clean waters, fresh air and a bounty of outdoor experiences, from the relaxing to the energising.
As temperatures across the continent soar, it’s time to abandon the classic summer beach holiday and embark on an alpine adventure in 2025. In fact, this is one of the trendiest things to do right now as far as travel is concerned. Best of all, while picturesque scenery and inspiring experiences may propel you to visit Austria, it’s the people that will compel you to return: their deep connection to nature, their hospitality and their joie de vivre – all known as ‘Lebensgefühl’ in Austria.
Whether you’re looking to recharge, test your limits, or find your very own Lebensgefühl, here are five Austrian alpine holiday ideas to get you started.
Start Planning Your Austrian Summer Holiday Here
5 Austrian Summer Holiday Ideas 2025
Hiking St. Anton Am Arlberg
Swap skiing for hiking this summer, and become acquainted with Austria’s diverse landscapes all the while. Think shimmering lakes, soft hills, alpine meadows and silent forests – as well as the grand peaks the nation is known for. For the epitome of Austria’s summer alpine experience, head to St. Anton am Arlberg, which is renowned for its lush pastures and circa 400km of hiking trails. Lace up your boots, shoulder your backpack and hike across the lush cattle pastures, tucking into snacks like home-cured bacon and spicy cheese cultivated by hospitable local farmers brimming with Lebensgefühl. Breathtaking views are naturally abundant.
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Biking In Saalfelden Leogang
With more than 90km of lines and trails, Saalfelden Leogang is Austria’s premier biking destination for travellers of all abilities come summertime. Cruise down comfortable paved paths with the family from Wiesensee to Pillersee, tackle tricky terrain in a fairytale forest on the Forsthof Trail, or even embark on a challenging tour like the Hundstein Tour for the more proficient cyclists, pedalling to the highest summit in the region. Either way, your efforts will be rewarded with beautiful valley views and refreshing drinks and snacks from cosy alpine huts when you need to refuel. Best of all, nine cable cars on seven mountains mean you can skip the steepest mountain climbs and fast-forward to the best bits.
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Outdoor Swimming In Zell am See–Kaprun
Swap the beach holiday for a lakeside escape in Zell am See–Kaprun this summer, which is home to a plethora of natural oases backdropped by picture-perfect alpine views, perfect for family camping holidays and sun-soaked day trips alike. Lake Zell tops the list: the region’s largest lake with three lidos on its shores and the water temperature a balmy 23°C in the summer. Elsewhere on the water, sailing, surfing, stand-up paddle-boarding and boat tours are all enjoyed, while sun worshippers lounge on the shore.
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Relaxation In Kitzbühel
A key part of Austrian Lebensgefühl is a deep connection to nature – and it’s a healing feeling. Whether it’s idyllic strolls, invigorating yoga or time in a spa, Kitzbühel is the alpine destination to visit this summer if relaxation is on the agenda. Nestled in the Tryolean mountains, Kitzbühel is home to everything from exclusive wellness hotels with healing treatments to extensive day spas featuring daily-changing rituals. Yogis can enjoy outdoor sessions with a mountain view at Naturlich Yoga, or why not challenge yourself to stand-up-paddleboard yoga on Lake Schwarzsee? Best of all, almost half of Kitzbühel is covered with forest. Since nature is the best medicine, step outside, wander around, and let tranquility heal you.
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Foodie Trip To Schladming
Combine nature, culture and cuisine in Schladming, a former Styrian mining town turned ski resort that transforms into a green world brimming with adventure come summertime. Think luscious hikes, guided bike tours, forest high ropes and wild lake swimming. But it’s meal times you’ll enjoy the most. Traditional regional dishes are plentiful here, from homemade apple strudel to beef broth with cheesy dumplings and Ennstal lamb, enjoyed everywhere from rustic taverns to luxury restaurants. Gourmet chef Richard Rauch also teams up with a selection of Schladming’s alpine huts every year, developing a special dish for each one, from a playful alpine carbonara with dumplings to homemade kaskrainer and goulash. Plus, plentiful local food festivals and quaint farmers markets means there’s always something delicious to nibble on in Schladming.
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