Austria
Zell am See
Zell am See is a picturesque resort town in the state of Salzburg, Austria, located on the shores of Lake Zell and surrounded by majestic mountains. It’s a true year-round destination, perfect for winter sports, hiking, cycling, and water activities. Towering above the town is the Schmittenhöhe ski area, while nearby Kitzsteinhorn Glacier offers skiing even in summer. The alpine lake features beaches, boat cruises, and crystal-clear waters for swimming or kayaking. The town has a laid-back vibe, with promenades, cafés, and cozy hotels. Zell am See is easily reached by train from Salzburg or Innsbruck. It’s the perfect blend of mountains, lake, and authentic Austrian charm.
Dachstein
Dachstein is a majestic mountain massif in Austria’s Northern Alps, located on the border of the Styria, Salzburg, and Upper Austria regions. It’s famous for its accessible glacier and thrilling attractions like the Skywalk, Stairway to Nothingness, and the ice palace carved into the glacier. The Dachstein Südwandbahn cable car takes visitors quickly up to over 2,700 meters, offering sweeping views of the Austrian Alps. The area is popular for hiking, climbing, skiing, and glacier trekking. In summer, you can explore alpine plateaus; in winter, it becomes a snowy paradise for winter sports. Dachstein perfectly blends wild nature, adrenaline, and well-developed tourism. An ideal destination for adventurers and fans of dramatic alpine scenery.
Großglockner Hochalpenstraße
Großglockner Hochalpenstraße is one of the most spectacular alpine roads in Europe, winding through the heart of the Hohe Tauern National Park and leading toward Austria’s highest peak – Großglockner (3,798 m). Stretching over 48 km, the road features dramatic hairpin turns, scenic viewpoints, and well-equipped stops with exhibitions, museums, and restaurants. The most popular stop is at Kaiser-Franz-Josefs-Höhe, offering breathtaking views of the Pasterze Glacier and Großglockner itself. Open only from May to October, the route is perfect for cars, motorcycles, bicycles, or guided tours. It’s a driving and sightseeing experience like no other, ideal for mountain lovers. Every kilometer reveals a new, stunning panorama of the Austrian Alps.
Kitzsteinhorn
Kitzsteinhorn (3,203 m) is a stunning glacial peak in the Austrian Alps, located near the resort town of Kaprun in the state of Salzburg. It’s well known for its glacier ski area, which is open almost year-round, and for the Gipfelwelt 3000 viewing platform, located at over 3,000 meters. Visitors can explore a panoramic tunnel carved in the rock, an alpine cinema, and a terrace with sweeping views of the Großglockner. The peak is easily reached via a series of modern cable cars from Kaprun. In summer, the area is perfect for alpine hikes and guided glacier tours. Kitzsteinhorn offers a rare mix of eternal snow, excellent infrastructure, and raw natural beauty. It’s a top destination for high-altitude lovers and fans of breathtaking alpine scenery.
Eisriesenwelt
Eisriesenwelt is the world’s largest ice cave, located near the town of Werfen in the state of Salzburg, Austria. This natural wonder stretches over 42 km, with a guided tour leading visitors through a breathtaking underground adventure. Access involves a mountain road, a scenic cable car ride, and a short hike with panoramic views of the Salzach Valley. Inside, visitors discover stunning ice formations, natural ice cathedrals, and narrow passages carved over thousands of years. Temperatures stay below freezing even in summer, so warm clothing is essential. The visit lasts about 1 hour and 15 minutes and offers a unique, unforgettable experience. Eisriesenwelt is an ideal destination for those seeking mystery, adventure, and a taste of the Alps’ hidden chill.
Die Kaiser-Franz-Josefs-Höhe am Großglockner
Kaiser-Franz-Josefs-Höhe is the most famous viewpoint along the iconic Großglockner High Alpine Road, located at an elevation of 2,369 meters. From here, visitors enjoy breathtaking views of the Pasterze Glacier and Großglockner (3,798 m), Austria’s highest peak. The area is well-developed, featuring parking areas, restaurants, panoramic terraces, a modern visitor center, and a mountain museum. It’s the perfect spot for photography, short walks, or simply soaking in the awe-inspiring alpine scenery. On clear days, the views are absolutely unforgettable. Access is by car or motorcycle via a scenic, well-maintained mountain road. Kaiser-Franz-Josefs-Höhe is a must-see destination in the heart of the Austrian Alps.
Liechtensteinklamm
Liechtensteinklamm is one of the deepest and most impressive gorges in the Austrian Alps, located near St. Johann im Pongau in the Salzburg region. With vertical cliffs up to 300 meters high and dramatic walkways carved into the rock, visitors follow a stunning path past waterfalls, sheer rock faces, and turquoise waters. The main highlight is the Helix Spiral Staircase, a unique suspended structure that offers access to the gorge’s most spectacular sections. The gorge trail is about 1 km long and easily walkable, making it ideal for families and visitors of all ages. The sound of rushing water and natural light effects create a magical atmosphere. Liechtensteinklamm is open in spring, summer, and autumn—perfect for a nature-filled, adventurous outing.
Kaprun Hochgebirgsstauseen
Kaprun Hochgebirgsstauseen are two stunning high-altitude reservoirs – Mooserboden and Wasserfallboden – located at over 2,000 meters elevation in the Hohe Tauern Mountains, near Kaprun, Austria. Access involves special shuttle buses and a scenic inclined lift carved into the rock, making the journey itself part of the adventure. The turquoise reservoirs are surrounded by rugged alpine peaks and offer breathtaking views and hiking trails for all levels. The site is a remarkable example of Austrian hydroelectric engineering, with a visitor center explaining how glacial water is turned into clean energy. Panoramic viewing platforms and cozy mountain restaurants make it a perfect destination for a day trip. It’s an ideal mix of nature, technology, and peaceful alpine beauty.
Schladming
Schladming is a modern and welcoming alpine resort in the Austrian state of Styria, nestled in the Dachstein-Tauern mountain range. It’s best known for professional alpine skiing, regularly hosting World Cup races on the famous Planai slope. In summer, the area turns into a paradise for hiking, mountain biking, and via ferrata, with breathtaking trails and alpine views. Cable cars operate year-round, offering quick access to high-altitude plateaus and mountain huts. The town blends Tyrolean tradition with modern amenities: elegant hotels, rustic guesthouses, and delicious regional cuisine. Schladming is ideal for both active holidays and peaceful nature retreats. A well-rounded destination for every season.