Holidays in St. Johann in Tirol

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 St. Johann

St. Johann is set in a wide and beautiful valley between the majestic Wilder Kaiser massif and the Kitzbüheler Horn. There are many additional side valleys to explore and over 200 kilometres of marked hiking paths and nine themed walking trails. St. Johann is also the start of Austria’s famous ‘Eagles Way’ long distance walking trail from East to West Tyrol. Terrain varies from meadow walks and riverside trails to the higher peaks of the Harschbichl gondola and Wilder Kaiser mountains. Excellent bus and train links also make it easy to explore the neighbouring Kitzbühel, Ellmau and Söll walking areas.

Guided walks

St. Johann Tourist Office runs a free programme of guided walks that changes weekly, plus hiking booklets and stamps for those completing stages of the ‘Eagles Way.’

There is also the option to join two Inghams guided walks per week from Kitzbühel - see the tab below for further details.

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

Lifts

There are plenty of lifts in and around the region for you to access hiking routes from. Some of the most relevant ones are below, however if you purchase the Kitzbühel Alps Summer Card you have access to up to 36 in total.

• Harschbichlbahn, St Johann (normally open 23 May - 27 Oct)
• A1 Hahnenhammbahn, Kitzbühel (normally open 7 Jun - 2 Nov)
• B1 Fleckalmbahn, Kirchberg (normally open 29 May - 1 Jun and 7 Jun - 12 Oct)
• E1 Gaisberg, Kirchberg (normally open 10 May - 26 Oct)
• G8/9 Panoramabahn 1 and 2, Pass Thurn (normally open 19 Jun - 12 Oct)
• H11 Bichlalm, Aurach (normally open 14 Jun - 28 Sept)
• H1/2 Hornbahn 1 and 2, Kitzbühel (normally open 10 May – 12 Oct)
• H3 Hornbahn 3, Kitzbühel (normally open 10 May - 12 Oct)
• B4 Sonnenrast, Kitzbühel (normally open 14 Jun - 12 Oct)

You can also use your included St. Johann Guest Card to receive discounts on certain cable car tickets.

Subject to change.

Train

You can use your included St. Johann Guest Card to access train services from Kirchbichl to Hochfilzen free of charge – allowing you access to lots of areas with various hiking routes, such as on the Wilder Kaiser and many more mountain ranges.

The train stops at the following places:

• Kirchbichl
• Wörgl
• Hopfgarten
• Kirchberg
• Kitzbühel
• St. Johann in Tirol
• Fieberbrunn
• Hochfilzen

Buses

The bus service in this area is exceptional, with travel being free of charge as part of your included St. Johann Guest Card.

The bus stops at the following places:

• St. Johann in Tirol
• Oberndorf
• Kirchdorf
• Erpfendorf
• Waidring
• St. Ulrich
• St. Jakob
• Fieberbrunn
• Hochfilzen
• Going
• Ellmau
• Kitzbühel

Join Inghams guided walks in Kitzbühel 

There are two full-day walks per week in Kitzbühel, just for Inghams guests and when you stay in St. Johann it's easy for you to join. Join a small group and be led by a professional walking guide on some of their favourite trails. It’s a great way to get to know the area. The walks in Kitzbühel are run by David Hechl.

In Summer 25, they're available from 26 May - 12 Sep. Walks will run on Mondays and either Thursdays or Fridays - please see the dates by the walk descriptions below. You can add the walks onto your holiday at the time of booking, through My Booking or by giving us a call.

Please note: the walks all take place in or around Kitzbühel, and you'll need to make your own way to and from the starting point (usually by train), which will be advised by your overseas representative.  

Bichlach Circular

A beautiful, low-level circular route through a hilly, forested area that was heavily influenced by the Ice Age. Pass pretty, traditional farmhouses and meadows, and enjoy stunning views of the local area. At the end, there's the option for a dip in the picturesque Schwarzsee lake - the warmest swimming lake in the area.

• Grade: easy - moderate (basic fitness required)
• Distance: 15km
• Walking time: approx. 5 hours
• Ascent/Descent: 480m
• Terrain: Asphalt, dirt tracks, natural trails
• Useful information: There will be a lunch stop at the Tischlerwirt (payable locally)

In Summer 25, this walk will run on: 26 May, 16 Jun, 7 Jul, 28 Jul, 18 Aug and 8 Sep

Wildalm Circular

Enjoy beautiful views on this circular walk - an ascent of the more pleasant kind, weaves up from the valley offering spectacular views over the Achental. At the top, you're rewarded with the Wildalm Hut where you'll stop for refreshments with an impressive mountain backdrop.

• Grade: moderate - challenging (basic fitness and sure-footedness required)
• Distance: 10.2km
• Walking time: approx. 5.5 hours
• Ascent/Descent: 660m
• Terrain: Forest tracks, natural trails
• Useful information: This walk requires a local taxi which is approx. €10pp each way. There will be a lunch stop at the Wildalm Hut (payable locally)

In Summer 25, this walk will run on: 30 May, 20 Jun, 10 Jul, 1 Aug, 21 Aug, 12 Sep

Rauher Kopf

Summit-baggers will love this walk. It starts in Kirchberg and heads up mainly through the shady forest then along the ridge to the peak of the Rauher Kopf - the view from here is really special. After a summit break, it's on to the Ruetzen snack station for refreshments and then down to the pretty town of Kirchberg for a train back.

• Grade: moderate - challenging (basic fitness and sure-footedness required)
• Distance: 11.5km
• Walking time: approx. 5.5 hours
• Ascent/Descent: 530m ascent and 750m descent
• Terrain: Forest tracks, natural trails
• Useful information: This walk requires a local taxi which is approx. €10pp and a local train which is approx. €2.70pp. There is a lunch stop at the Ruetzen snack station (payable locally)

In Summer 25, this walk will run on: 6 Jun, 27 Jun, 18 Jul, 8 Aug, 29 Aug

Chapel Walk

The name gives the game away on this walk - you'll pass five picturesque chapels - but it's also a scenic walk for the non-believers. Weaving along the valley, in and out of the forest, it's an enjoyable walk that can be shortened at any time by taxi if necessary. Of course, there'll be a refreshment stop on route too, at the pretty Hallerwirt and the final highlight is the Schleier waterfall.

• Grade: easy - moderate (basic fitness required)
• Distance: 15km
• Walking time: approx. 5.5 hours
• Ascent/Descent: 570m ascent and 750m descent
• Terrain: Forest tracks, natural trails
• Useful information: This walk requires a local bus which is payable locally. There will be a lunch stop at the Hallerwirt (payable locally)

In Summer 25, this walk will run on: 2 Jun, 23 Jun, 14 Jul, 4 Aug, 25 Aug

Explore the famous Kitzbühler Horn

First the Hornbahn lift does the brunt of the uphill leg-work and you're rewarded with spectacular views right from the start. You follow the scenic Gams Trail to the Lämmerbichlalm where there's chance for a tea break before a beautiful climb up towards the Hochetzkogel for a panoramic view. The Bichlalm Hut offers lunch in the dreamiest setting and then you descend to Sonnbergstube (you can shorten the descent by taking the chairlift part way) and then you'll get a taxi back to Kitzbühel.

• Grade: moderate - challenging (good fitness and sure-footedness required)
• Distance: 11.5km
• Walking time: approx. 5 hours
• Ascent/Descent: 380m ascent and 880m descent
• Terrain: Forest tracks, natural trails
• Useful information: This walk requires ascent by gondola (payable locally - approx. €24.50pp or €29.50pp for a combined ticket with the optional chairlift) and return by taxi (payable locally - approx. €8pp). There will be a stop for a tea break and lunch which are both payable locally

In Summer 25, this walk will run on: 13 Jun, 4 Jul, 25 Jul, 15 Aug, 5 Sep

Seidlalm Circular

Experience summer on the iconic Streif - one of the most challenging downhill ski runs on the World Cup Ski Calendar. On this walk, you'll enjoy some beautiful views over Kitzbühel towards the Wilder Kaiser mountains, as well as seeing some of the famous sections of the ski run including the finishing jump. You'll pass some picturesque traditional farms along the way too, and lunch is at the Siedlalm which offers spectacular views.

• Grade: moderate (basic fitness and sure-footedness required)
• Distance: 9.5km
• Walking time: approx. 5 hours
• Ascent/Descent: 625m
• Terrain: Forest tracks, natural trails
• Useful information: There will be a stop at the Siedlalm (lunch not included)

In Summer 25, this walk will run on: 10 Jun, 30 Jun, 21 Jul, 11 Aug, 1 Sep

For every walk you will need: suitable walking shoes/boots with good grip, appropriate walking clothing, sun cream, insect repellent, sunglasses, rain jacket, a warmer layer, rucksack, at least a litre of water, a snack, cash for mountain huts/transport. You may find walking poles useful.

Early booking is strongly recommended as spaces are limited. All walks are subject to availability of local guides, weather conditions and maximum numbers. Planned routes are subject to change. Any distances and ascents/descents stated are approximate. Full details of the walks with the meeting points and routes will be provided to you on arrival. In some instances there may be a small charge for local transport that is payable locally. In resorts where the walks run over more than two days, the day of the walk will be allocated to you by your Rep in your welcome meeting. Where we cannot confirm your preferred option in resort, we will endeavour to offer an alternative subject to the above conditions.

Please ensure you are comfortable with the grade of walk, planned distance covered and terrain before booking. The decision of the guide on the suitability of the walk for you is final and no compensation will be paid where the guide believes, in their professional opinion, that it is not suitable. Please ensure you are well-equipped for the walk have suitable clothing and footwear. Walks are not recommended for guests under 12 years. Any guests under 18 years will need to be accompanied by an adult.

Oberndorf to Harschbichlalm circular

• Moderate walk
• 14.4km
• Expect to take all day

Hop on the PostBus south to Oberdorf where this route starts. Perfect for the whole family or anyone keen to get their steps in, this hike will take you by the Dickat Chapel, past the Angereralm lake, through alpine meadows, and provide ultimate Kitzbüheler Horn views. You can even stop by the Angerer Alm hut, which stocks over 400 different wines. The main reward of this walk is the incredible panoramic views from the top of the Harschbichl.

Eiffersbacher Waterfall

• Moderate walk
• 8.3km
• Expect to take around three hours

Check out the running streams and plummeting waterfalls as you pass through wooded areas and over rockface bridges from the village square. Follow the yellow signs and you may even cool down the with refreshing water spray along the way.

Lourdes Grotto & Gmail Chapel

• Moderate walk
• 7.8km
• Expect to take around four hours

Trek your way through forests, pastures, and beautiful flower meadows along this route. Complete the circular hike while discovering carved sculptors, old buildings, and a few hidden gems as well. You will end with a nice leisurely stroll back, along the narrow forest road.

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 452, 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.

St. Johann Guest Card

Your Guest Card - St. Johann Card is given to you on arrival at your hotel. The guest card includes local train travel, one free return journey on the Harschbichlbahn cable car, and further discounts with bonus partners.

Kitzbühel Alps Summer Card - buy locally | from €120.00 - 6 days | please present your guest card for the reduced rate.

Consecutive days only. Other durations are available.

The Summer Card includes up to 36 lifts in the region including the following lifts in the St. Johann and Kitzbühel area plus discounts on various bonus partners throughout the region.

• Harschbichlbahn, St Johann (normally open 23 May - 27 Oct)
• A1 Hahnenhammbahn, Kitzbühel (normally open 7 Jun - 2 Nov)
• B1 Fleckalmbahn, Kirchberg (normally open 29 May - 1 Jun and 7 Jun - 12 Oct)
• E1 Gaisberg, Kirchberg (normally open 10 May - 26 Oct)
• G8/9 Panoramabahn 1 and 2, Pass Thurn (normally open 19 Jun - 12 Oct)
• H11 Bichlalm, Aurach (normally open 14 Jun - 28 Sept)
• H1/2 Hornbahn 1 and 2, Kitzbühel (normally open 10 May – 12 Oct)
• H3 Hornbahn 3, Kitzbühel (normally open 10 May - 12 Oct)
• B4 Sonnenrast, Kitzbühel (normally open 14 Jun - 12 Oct)

In addition to these lifts, you also have access to operating lifts in St Johann in Tirol, Wildschönau, Alpbachtal, Steinplatte Waidring, Pillersee, Lofer, Going, Ellmau, Scheffau, Söll, Brixen, Westendorf, Hopfgarten, Itter, and Kufstein, making the pass excellent value for money.

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

Things to do in St. Johann in Tirol

An authentic Austrian town

Stroll past traditional Austrian buildings, painted in light colours and intricate decorative murals. With a central square and open spaces to enjoy a break, St. Johann can be both a lively and peaceful atmosphere. It's particularly lovely when the Wednesday village evening brings the town to life, or when the locals embrace a festival.

Harschbichl cable-car

Ascending nearly 1,000 metres, the cable car quickly whisks you up the mountain ready for a world of adventures. Breaking the journey up, the mid-station is not to be passed by without a visit to the Hornpark climbing world, or Harschbichl Trail, fantastic for eager mountain bikers. For a thrilling experience, you can hire a mountain cart to make the descent more fun. Enjoy one free return journey on the Harschbichlbahn which is included in your guest card.

Explore the routes of the region

Walk, run, or cycle your way through forest routes or open spaces at your own pace. With around 200 kilometres of marked walking paths and cycling trails, you can take it as slow or fast as you please - hire an e-bike for a helping hand on those steep inclines.

Swimming lake

Cool off in the St. Johann outdoor pool or head to the Badesee bathing lake at nearby Going – surrounded by beautiful scenery, and extremely refreshing on a hot summer's day. Fresh water is supplied to the man-made lake, complimenting the clean mountain air that surrounds you. Relax on the spacious lawn to recharge for another day of mountain fitness - these spots are great for kids too.

Local train station

The St. Johann train station offers easy connections for exploring further afield - it's just 10 minutes or so to Kitzbühel, or stay on to explore cities like Innsbruck or Kufstein. The fortress in Kufstein is worth a visit, but the hidden gem of the town has to be the single-person chair lift that rises up the back of the Wilder Kaiser mountains where the views are spectacular.

Visit Salzburg

Salzburg is is a hub of music and culture, famed as the filming location for many scenes in the "Sound of Music" and it's the birthplace of Mozart. The Mirabel Palace and Gardens are a spectacle at any time of the year, and it's easy to lose yourself wandering the pretty streets of the Old Town - take a look in Mozart's birthplace, a boat trip on the river, or a walk up to the Hohensalzburg Fortress.

Heritage museum

Two connected buildings in the heart of St. Johann are home to the local museum and gallery, ideal for keen exhibition enthusiasts. At a very low admission fee, this is the perfect activity to squeeze into one of those days where you want to take it slow.

Evening entertainment

On Wednesdays, St. Johann hosts the “Lang & Klang” (from early July to September). Turning the village centre into a show stage, adults can tune into the live music, night-time shop or indulge in some treats in the restaurants, bars, or gardens.

Festivals & events

Regular annual festivals and events bring St. Johann to life throughout the summer with live music, beer tents, food stalls and entertainment:

• Weekly farmers’ market in Town square
• Brass band concerts in Town square
• Vintage car rally in Kitzbühel (early Jun)
• Billy goat mountain top festival (mid Jul)
• Summer Solstice bonfire night (mid Jun)
• Jaggas’n town fair (mid Jul)

Hot-air balloon rides

For something a little different, you can soar over the Kitzbüheler Alps and on a magical hot-air balloon experience. Get a unique birds eye view of the region below - especially impressive at sunset.

Segway tours

Put your helmet on, it's time for a ride - enjoy the landscape in comfort and style. Hold on tight as you sightsee and explore in an exhilarating and unique way.

Golf

Beginner, expert, or keen to get into a new hobby? With the mountains right behind you, the golf courses in Kitzbühel or at Lärchenhof are the ideal place to either unwind or compete. Remember, practice makes perfect, so the driving range is just the place for a course 'warm-up'.

Family activities in St. Johann

Panorama Badwelt large indoor pool

Children love nothing more than a day at the waterpark. Grab an inflatable boat and speed your way down the 38-metre turbo slide – there are even light displays inside the tube. There is also another wide slide, and a 100-metre tube slide, perfect for little ones to go again-and-again.

Tree-tops adventure course

Head to Hornpark treetop adventure in St. Johann, the Kitzbüheler Alps biggest high ropes course. With 106 obstacles, 11 different courses and immaculate views of the Wilder Kaiser, children will create forever-lasting memories here. Take the flying fox zip line over the Angereralm mountain lake, or mountain cart down to the bottom lift station – one for the thrill-seekers.

Playgrounds and bathing lakes

Let off steam at the mountain playgrounds by jumping on trampolines or climbing over giant wooden play parks. The Badesee bathing lake at nearby Going is perfect for a chilled day and has plenty to keep the kids entertained with slides, water features and plenty of grass space. 

Or, hop on a local bus to explore Ellmi's Magic World at the top of the Ellmau lift, or the Hexenwasser ('Witches Water') play park in Söll. If the weather's not playing ball, the Kaiserbad indoor pool and climbing wall near Ellmau is a great option too.

Kitzbüheler Alp adventures

Why not take a visit to one of our nearby resorts like Kitzbühel, Ellmau, Söll or Westendorf for even more exciting adventures and days out with the kids. Be prepared, you are definitely in for an action-packed holiday.

Pre-book your excursions online or give us a call

Berchtesgaden from £47/30 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. €31.90 per person, Salt Mines approx. €25.50 per person).

Departs: Tuesdays

Grossglockner from £56/38 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: Thursdays

Salzburg from £47/30 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: Fridays

Bookable Locally

Hidden Treasures from approx. €50/30 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.