Holidays in Söll

Summer holidays in Söll - a lively village with mountain views and hundreds of kilometres of fantastic walking trails

  • Explore a huge variety of walking trails to suit all abilities
  • Embrace the atmosphere with a brass band concert or Tyrolean evening
  • Head to the lively village evening for local food, drink, crafts and live music

Söll is a valley village filled with people who treasure tradition – whether that’s welcoming visitors to its flower-bedecked hotels or celebrating the return of their beloved cows from the high mountain pastures each summer (flower crowns included). Söll’s open green valley rises into the foothills of the vast Wilder Kaiser mountains to the North, and the Bergwelt to the South. In winter, this area is one of Austria’s biggest ski regions. In summer, it's the perfect destination for a walking holiday exploring over 700 kilometres of varied paths linked by lifts and public transport.

Walking in Söll

Two very different mountains bookend Söll, making for varied adventuring terrain and scenic walking holidays. The jagged dragon’s spine of Wilder Kaiser juts its grey limestone peaks to the north, green mountains roll out to the south, and a valley stretches out between - it's all covered in an intricate web of walking trails. Lifts climb into the mountains, pausing at peaks and plateaus, before dropping back down into neighbouring valleys and villages. Mountain biking is big around these parts too. Keen pedallers can check out the pump track at Lake Ahornsee on the south side of Söll or venture into the wooded slopes to discover exciting mountain trails around Brixen.

Hochsöll and Hohe Salve

One of the most popular – and most accessible – mountain ascents from Söll is the Hohe Salve. First, board the new cable car bound for Hochsöll and the mountain park of Hexenwasser. Here, families can explore pools, steppingstones and barefoot trails while learning about the tales of the valleys around.

A second cable car climbs further still to the peak of the Hohe Salve, where the highest pilgrimage chapel in Austria keeps an eye on the valleys and villages far below. Paragliders are also found up here, ready to launch themselves into the crisp mountain air. You can choose to keep your feet firmly grounded, following footpaths to glassy lakes and mountain huts.

Soak up the village spirit in Söll

Söll is a village full of surprises. Take the parish church – it might look like a classic alpine sanctuary from the outside, but inside it’s a flamboyant rococo concoction of painted ceilings and sacred sculptures. Restaurants and shops are well-stocked with local meat, cheese, ice cream and breads sourced from the farms that freckle the valley. The town band doesn’t need much of an excuse to strike up a Tyrolean tune, either, putting on weekly concerts and village evenings in summer.

Discover hidden gems or bustling cities

Buses roll along the valleys of the Wilder Kaiser, stopping at picturesque villages such as Scheffau and Ellmau, and at the turquoise waters of Hintersteinersee lake. Where there’s a village, there’s usually a lift – and they’ve all got their own specialties. Some cable cars deliver families to child-friendly walks, others take you to renowned mountain huts, and others are gateways to the wilder paths of the Wilder Kaiser. For a trip to the city, catch the bus to fortress-topped Kufstein. Trains run from the town centre to Innsbruck in the west and Salzburg in the east. There's a mountain lift hidden in Kufstein too, the single person chair-lift that slowly rises up the back of the Wilder Kaiser mountains is a real hidden gem, offering up some incredible views and peaceful surroundings.

Why book a summer holiday in Söll with Inghams?

At Inghams, we do walking holidays differently. With no fixed itinerary, you have more time in your destination and the freedom to walk as much or as little as you like, discovering some of Söll’s best walking routes and activities at your own pace.

With 90 years of outdoor travel experience, our holiday packages to Söll include flights, transfers, and accommodation, so you can relax and leave the small details to us. Our experts can help you choose the best holiday for you, and our team in resort can give you the inside scoop on how to spend your time away with us.

Added value

Save an extra £50pp on holidays departing on 24th and 31st May 2025

Free use of local Kaiserjet bus with the guest card

All holidays include flights from the UK and transfers

24/7 support & tailored advice in person or over the phone from our local resort team

Walking in and around Söll

On an Inghams walking holiday, you have the freedom to explore the area at your own pace. Each day, a new adventure, with as much or as little walking as you like.

Why we love walking holidays in Söll

The village of Söll forms part of the massive Wilder Kaiser - Brixental area which has a network of over 700 kilometres of walking paths. It is a beautiful valley, with endless walking opportunities all linked by a superb network of lifts. There are plenty of scenic hiking routes and family trails to discover, with one of the most beautiful mountain ranges - the Wilder Kaiser - right on your doorstep. Explore the rocky paths and rugged peaks, so stay on the south side of the valley for the great lift network and easily accessible trails - Söll has plenty for everyone.

Guided walks

Söll Tourist Office offers regular guided walks and good maps of the local area. The walks may need to be booked in advance, directly with the tourist office.

Subject to change.

Getting around Söll

Söll has a great network of public transport and lifts that make getting around the area really easy.

Lifts

In the Kitzbühel Alps are there up to 38 lifts you can access from Söll via public transport. The region's advanced lift system means experiencing panoramic walks and summit hikes is easily accessible.

The closest lifts to explore the region are:

  • Hochsöll, Hohe Salve and Keat in Söll (normally open from 9 May)
  • Hartkaiserbahn in Ellmau (normally open from 9 May)
  • Astbergbahn in Going (normally open from 8 Jun)
  • Brandstadlbahn in Scheffau (normally open from 18 May)
  • Hochbrixen and Zinsbergbahn in Brixen (normally open from 18 May)
  • Salvenbahn 1 and 2 in Hopfgarten (normally open from 18 May)
  • Alpenrosenbahn 1 and 2 in Westendorf (normally open from 18 May)
  • Kaiserlift in Kufstein (normally open from beginning May)
  • Salvistabahn in Itter (limited opening days throughout the season)

See the “Cards & passes” tab for further information.

Subject to change.

Buses

The Kaiserjet bus (free with your Wilder Kaiser Guest Card) transports walkers between the villages of Söll, Scheffau, Ellmau and Going making it easy to explore other areas as well. The PostBus is also free between these villages.

From mid-June to mid-September, the Kaiserjet Nightliner runs between Söll, Scheffau, Ellmau and Going from Tuesday to Friday night, enabling you to visit the weekly village evenings in neighbouring towns.

Public buses also operate to surrounding destinations including Kitzbühel and St. Johann, which are home to a variety of walking challenges and family-friendly strolls.

You can also use your included Wilder Kaiser Guest Card to reach walking hotspots such as Hintersteinersee lake and popular local mountain huts.

Timetables can be found online or directly at the bus stops.

Our favourite walks in and around Söll

Hintersteinersee circular

  • Easy walk
  • 5.2km
  • Expect to take around two hours

Just north of the village lies this hidden lake, with stunning blue waters, tree-lined banks and shallow shores – ideal for dipping your toes in to quickly cool off on route. Along different banks you will find multiple refreshment stops including the the Café Restaurant Seestüberl, Maier and Goingstätt.

Witch’s water Hochsöll

  • Moderate walk
  • 6.5km
  • Expect to take around three hours

This walk is a fantastic alternative to catching the Hochsöll Cable Car, winding you up the mountain on zig-zag paths and crossing the lift above you. Keep your eyes peeled at all times, there's lots to spot on this route, including the rock chapel, calming creeks and local farms.

Panoramaweg Brandstadl

  • Easy walk
  • 5.8km
  • Expect to take around two hours

This walk takes you past two adventure parks, so it’s perfect for little ones too. Considered one of the most scenic routes, the panoramic trail will have you seeing as far as the Lofer and Leogang Mountains, Hohe Tauern Mountains and the Zillertal Alps. You will also see lots of vibrant roses if you complete this hike in June or July.

Useful information and guidelines

Recommended equipment

Suitable walking shoes with good grip, appropriate clothing, rain jacket, sun cream, insect repellent, sun glasses, rucksack, at least a litre of water, a re-usable water bottle, a snack and cash. You may find walking poles useful.

Walking maps

We recommend Mayr Map number 451, which has a scale of 1:25,000. The maps show the walking routes which are numbered and match the yellow signposts around the area. They will have a key which will help you understand the nature of the trail before you set out on your walk.

Walking guidelines

The mountains are a natural paradise, with lots to explore and discover. To help it stay that way, and remain an enjoyable and safe place for everyone, we recommend following our little list of do's and don'ts:

  • Plan your route well and don't overestimate yourself
  • Check the weather forecast
  • Tell someone where you're planning to walk and what time you're expecting to be back
  • Take all the recommended equipment
  • Make a note of emergency numbers:
    • Austrian Emergency Services: 112
    • Mountain Rescue: 140
  • Don't leave the marked trails or go onto a glacier without a guide
  • Let nature stay wild by not picking alpine flowers (it's illegal in some places) or getting close to/making contact with wild animals
  • Always leave gates as you found them
  • Leave no trace

Check out our Responsible Walking insider guide if you want more tips for your summer walking holiday.

Hotels in Söll

  • from£959pp
  • @accommodation.PropertyRating

    3.5 Rating

    We rate all of our accommodation based on their facilities, service level, character and customer feedback. Our ratings may vary from the official star rating.

  • 32 rooms
Hotel Eggerwirt, Söll, Austria - Exterior in summer.jpg

Guests return year after year for the warm welcome and at-home feel of family-run Hotel Eggerwirt. Located in the centre of Söll, enjoy a relaxed atmosphere and plenty of Tyrolean charm and character. This cosy hotel has a small outdoor swimming pool and a small spa.

  • from£1074pp
  • @accommodation.PropertyRating

    4 Rating

    We rate all of our accommodation based on their facilities, service level, character and customer feedback. Our ratings may vary from the official star rating.

  • 61 rooms
Hotel Tyrol Soll Austria (6)

The family-run Hotel Tyrol is just a minute's walk from the centre of Söll. Rooms are spacious and comfortably furnished, and you can expect hearty and traditional meals. Laze on the terrace or in the large gardens, and enjoy the modern indoor and outdoor pools and the Kaiser Spa.

Wilder Kaiser Guest Card - included

The Wilder Kaiser Guest Card is available free of charge from your hotel upon arrival and is valid for a period of your stay.

It includes:

  • Kaiserjet Bus which runs between the villages of Söll, Scheffau, Ellmau and Going
  • Hiker's bus to Hintersteinersee lake, Wochenbrunner Alm mountain hut and Hüttling
  • Public buses to Kufstein, Wörgl, Kitzbühel and St Johann
  • Tourist Board activity programme
  • Discounts on summer cable car tickets, entry to attractions, pools and lakes, walking and biking maps in the tourist information and more

Subject to change.

Lift passes - buy locally

Mountain Experience Card - buy locally | from €94.00 - 6 days | from €69.00 - 3 days | please present your guest card for a reduced rate. 

Consecutive days only. Other durations are available.

Includes up to 15 lifts in the Wilder Kaiser - Brixental region plus discounts on various bonus partners throughout the area.

  • Hochsöll, Hohe Salve and Keat in Söll (normally open from 9 May)
  • Hartkaiserbahn in Ellmau (normally open from 9 May)
  • Astbergbahn in Going (normally open from 8 Jun)
  • Brandstadlbahn in Scheffau (normally open from 18 May)
  • Hochbrixen and Zinsbergbahn in Brixen (normally open from 18 May)
  • Salvenbahn 1 and 2 in Hopfgarten (normally open from 18 May)
  • Alpenrosenbahn 1 and 2 in Westendorf (normally open from 18 May)
  • Kaiserlift in Kufstein (normally open from beginning May)
  • Salvistabahn in Itter (limited opening days throughout the season)

Kitzbühel Alps Summer Card - buy locally | from €103.50 - 6 days | from €76.00 - 3 days | please present your guest card for a reduced rate.

Consecutive days only. Other durations are available.

Includes up to 38 lifts in the Kitzbühel Alps region plus discounts on various bonus partners throughout the area, so is ideal for people staying longer durations or wanting to explore further afield.

The lifts included are the 15 listed above, plus operating lifts in Kitzbühel, St Johann, Wildschönau, Alpbachtal, Fieberbrunn, Steinplatte Waidring, Pillersee and Lofer.

Lift pass inclusions and lift opening times are subject to change.

Things to do in Söll

Things to do in Söll

Explore the village and valley

In Söll there is a good selection of cafés, shops and restaurants for you to explore and try out. With pretty buildings and a standout church, taking a stroll around the village is very peaceful. Or, hop on the free valley bus and go on an adventure to see what's around.

Ahornsee bathing lake in Söll

Did someone say a dip in the Ahornsee? Perfectly located, you can enjoy a leisurely stroll from your hotel to the lake, ideal for being in the great outdoors as much as possible. Lay back on a deckchair, jump off the diving tower, paddle in the shallow water or swim until your hearts content – all while enjoing the immaculate scenery around you.

Kaiserbad leisure centre

Don't forget to pack your bathing suits, you won't want to miss out on the swimming and wellness facilities near the village of Ellmau. There's a large spa with infrared cabins, solarium, saunas and steam baths (but bare in mind, spas are often nude zones in Austria). Or, stretch and strengthen your body with a swim – there is an indoor and outdoor pools, water slides plus a natural swimming pond too.

If the weather takes a turn, there's also great sprots facilities here, including tennis and squash courts and an indoor climbing hall.

Badesee bathing lake in Going

Spend a day in Going sunbathing on the lawn, jumping in the lake or simply feeling the sand between your toes on the beachy shore. With excellent on-site facilities, you can plan for a full day of fresh mountain air, even while you enjoy lunch from the lake café.

Visit to Kufstein

Just north of Söll and about 25 minutes on the bus you will find the medieval masterpiece of Kufstein Fortress and its open-air arena. Located on top of the hill, the views are stunning. Here you’ll find a museum, funicular train and amazing photo-spots looking over the Inn River which runs all the way from Switzerland, through Austria and to Germany.

Kufstein also has a good variety of shops, restaurants and pretty streets, but its best feature has to be the single person chairlift which rises up the back of the Wilder Kaiser mountains, offering a peaceful and easy ascent matched with incredible views.

Sporting facilities

With excellent transport links, you can easily access destinations that are home to many different sports. Maybe you are looking for a game of tennis? Then the three clay courts at the Franzlhof have you covered – there is even a small pit-pat course and crazy golf too, so perfect for the whole family. 

Golf in Ellmau

Are you ready for a day of golfing bliss? Pop on the quick bus ride to the nearby resort of Ellmau, home to a mighty 27 holes, spread across three 9-hole courses. With the sun shining and the Wilder Kaiser watching, you are in for a treat. Rent your golf clubs and take to the greens – it's time to get started.

Festivals and events

In and around Söll there are several festivals and events, with lots being in the village itself. Often you will find the open-air brass band concert in full swing, played by the locals and various village evenings bring the centre alive arts, crafts, local food and drink or live music. At a small fee, you can attend the weekly Tyrolean evenings and if you're travelling in mid-august you might be lucky enough to attend the annual Dorf-fest village festival and carnival.

Family activities in Söll

Family activities in Söll

Mountain biking

Biking is increasing in popularity all over Austria and Söll is no exception. There's a new pump track near the Ahornsee Lake where you can practise your skills, plus rental shops in town offering adults and kids bikes. Guided tours are available locally which are a great way to explore the area.

Hintersteinersee lake

This picturesque lake is worth a visit, whether you have kids or not. The bathing area has rentals of sunbeds, umbrellas and stand-up paddleboards, and it's very refreshing for a swim in the clear waters. You can walk all the way round the lake - the south side is quite hilly but shaded, and the north side is sunny and flatter, following a quiet road. Three restaurants offer refreshments along the way and a full lap of the lake will take around two to two and a half hours.

Ahornsee bathing lake

Enjoy a day of relaxation at the Ahornsee while the kids swim and play - the views from this lake are beautiful and it's easy to find a comfortable spot to settle down in for a few hours. There's a lido area and floating platform which is fun to swim out to. Plus, there's toilets and changing rooms, and a café with hot food, ice cream and drinks.

The Badesee bathing lake near the town of Going is also worth a visit with the family. This lake has lots going on for children including water slides and play areas. It's accessible using the free Kaiserjet Bus from Söll.

Kaiserbad Ellmau

The Kaiserbad swimming pool is a must-visit on a sunny day if you have energetic kids - there's an extensive outdoor pool area, water slides and a big play area. It's also a great wet weather option, as it has a large indoor area with water slides, whirlpool, swimming area and loungers. Within the complex, there's also an indoor climbing wall separate to the swimming area.

Fun family walks

There are plenty of walking options around the Söll area that will appeal to children as well as adults. From Hexenwasser adventure play area, the walk to Filmzalmsee Lake has a hut stop on route, and the play areas around the lake are lots of fun. For the best views, head to the top of Scheffau's Brandstadl lift and follow Panorama trail to the top of the Ellmau Hartkaiser lift. On the way you'll pass various adventure parks and have panoramic views the whole way - there's plenty of places for food with a view too.

Hexenwasser and the Hohe Salve

The Hexenwasser (Witches' Water) on the Hohe Salve mountain in Söll is paradise for children. There's lots of activities for children to get involved with, adventure play areas, and Austria's longest barefoot walk which is enjoyed by children and adults alike. Maybe you'll even get to meet the Witches as you explore, too.

KaiserWelt Scheffau

At the top of Scheffau's Brandstadl lift is the KaiserWelt, which means Emperor's World. Children can play in the playground and the various wooden tree huts while parents admire the view of the Wilder Kaiser mountains on the other side of the valley. Take a walk to the Jochstub'n Lake - a unique high mountain lake with little sailing boat.

Ellmi's Zauberwelt Ellmau

This is the land of fantasy and magic - there's lots to discover at the top of Ellmau's Hartkaiserbahn lift. As well as the enchanted forest, there's a large adventure playground with water area, zip line, trampoline and much more to delight younger children.

Söll excursions

Pre-book your excursions online or give us a call

Grossglockner from £54/36 per adult/child (full day)

This spectacular journey takes you over the Grossglockner High Alpine Road, an incredible feat of engineering with stunning views. From the Franz-Josef's Höhe you'll see the Pasterze glacier and maybe catch a glimpse of 3,798-metre summit of the Grossglockner. Keep a look out for the wild marmots and Ibex too - they love the high alpine conditions. You can visit the free museums and exhibitions to learn about the National Park or enjoy a walk round the area and a tasty Austrian mountain meal.

Departs: Tuesdays

Salzburg from £42/26 per adult/child (full day)

Salzburg is a city full of culture, history and music. Visit Mozart’s birthplace, enjoy the view from the Hohensalzburg Fortress, or wander the famous Getreidegasse shopping street. Immerse yourself in history as you explore the medieval Old Town, discover museums and Baroque churches or visit the Salzburg Residenz Palace - the DomQuartier. There is an optional guided walking tour which is a great way to see more of the city (payable locally, approx. €12 per person).

Departs: Thursdays

Berchtesgaden from £48/30 per adult/child (full day)

There's a few options for you to choose from on this interesting trip to Berchtesgaden. Spend the day discovering the pretty Bavarian town of Berchtesgaden itself, or choose one of the optional extras that you can add on to your day (difference payable locally).

The most famous is the Kehlsteinhaus (Eagle's Nest). Explore the historic building and surrounding area, with spectacular views on a clear day over the King's Lake. The house is famous for being Nazi-constructed and was used for government and social meetings by Hitler and the Nazi Party. Alternatively, head underground to see the Salt Mines. A network of tunnels and slides take you on an underground adventure discovering this once very important industry (optional add-ons are payable locally - Eagle's Nest approx. €30.80 per person, Salt Mines approx. €22.50 per person).

Departs: Fridays

Bookable Locally

Hidden Treasures from approx. €45/25 per adult/child

Discover some of the area's best kept secrets on this trip which combines three unique destinations. Our first 'treasure' is Kufstein, located on the banks of the River Inn. You'll have time to explore and admire this border town with its dominating Fortress. Next, you're off to the beautiful local Hechtsee lake, surrounded by forests and steeped in folklore. Our final destination is Rattenberg, rich in history and famous for Kisslinger glass - watch a glass-blowing demonstration and explore the picturesque streets of this tiny city.

Departs: Wednesdays

We act at all times as a selling agent for the suppliers. All excursions require minimum numbers to run and are subject to change. Some excursions may not be available to pre-book in low season but may be available to book locally subject to numbers. Prices will be confirmed at the time of booking. Please see our terms & conditions.

Good to know

Walking trails: 700km of walking trails with great lift network

Terrain: Diverse terrain from rolling hills to dramatic peaks

Best time to go: end of May to end of September. It can get hot in July and August but a dip in a lake is a great way to cool off

Recommended for: Walkers of all abilities, families, nature, activities

Fly into: Innsbruck or Salzburg (approx. 2 hours)

Fly from: London Gatwick, Birmingham, Manchester and Edinburgh

Transfer time: approx. 1 hour 30 mins from Innsbruck or 1 hour 45 mins from Salzburg by coach

24/7 Support and advice: In person or over the phone from our local resort team based in Söll

Resort card: Wilder Kaiser guest card included for all hotels

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