Walking in Austria

Walking in Austria means exploring mountain landscapes, open valleys and clear alpine lakes. Well-marked trails lead through flower-filled meadows and traditional Tyrolean villages, with scenic views throughout.

With around 24,000 km of walking routes, Austria offers plenty of choice for all abilities, from gentle valley walks to longer mountain trails. Many routes are easy to access using lifts and local transport, making it simple to explore at your own pace.

We’ve picked out the must-visit resorts and walking routes to help you experience Austria’s best scenery on foot.

Beautiful alpine walks in Austria

Seefeld: Walks for all - family, strolls and summits

Seefeld sits on Tyrol’s high plateau and combines mountain scenery with a lively summer atmosphere. Once a farming village, it now hosts open-air concerts, food festivals and a range of cafés and shops, giving it a friendly, relaxed feel.

Seefeld is also known for its wellness offering, with several spas and wellness centres that are ideal for unwinding after a day outdoors.

When it comes to walking, there’s plenty of choice, from family-friendly paths and gentle strolls to more demanding mountain and summit routes, making it a great option for all types of walkers.

Wildmoos and Mösern Lake

This easy walk explores the Wildmoos area, starting from Mösern Lake near Seefeld. The route follows woodland paths and open scenery, making it a relaxed option for most walkers.

Along the way, you’ll pass Lottensee, a seasonal lake that appears at certain times of year. The return section offers open views across the Inn Valley, with several mountain huts along the route for rest stops and refreshments.

Duration: 3 hours

Gleirschklamm Gorge

This moderate walk follows the Isar Valley, known for its clear glacial water and striking scenery. The route passes through a narrow gorge, where some sections require careful footing. Beyond the gorge, the walk continues along the Hochwaldweg, leading back to Scharnitz. This section opens out to wide views across the surrounding mountains and valleys, rounding off the walk with panoramic scenery.

Duration: 4 hours

Saalbach & Hinterglemm: Walk, explore & unwind

Discover the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation in Saalbach and Hinterglemm. Feel the rush of adrenaline with extreme sports, 400 kilometers of walking trails, and biking routes for all levels. And when it's time to unwind, have a lounge in the hammocks along the 'wellness trail' or enjoy local treats at one of the 40 mountain huts. It's the best of both worlds in one incredible destination.

Alpine Herb Trail

Enjoy a gentle stroll along the Alpine Herb Trail, a relaxed walk with scenic views and a wide variety of alpine plants along the way. The route is lined with more than 200 different herbs and flowers, making it a great choice for nature lovers and those looking for an easy walk.

Duration: 40 minutes

Forest Wellness Trail

Experience the ultimate relaxation on the Forest Wellness Trail. This easy and calming walk is a leisurely stroll through the ancient forest at Reiterkogel in Hinterglemm. The forest is over 200 years old and is home to more than 1,000 spruce trees. Along the trail, you’ll find peaceful spots for yoga, a forest library to explore, picnic areas and cosy hammocks and sun loungers to relax in.

Duration: 20 minutes

Walking in Kitzbühel:Timeless charm & vibrant culture

Kitzbühel is a classic Tyrolean town known for its colourful buildings, lively streets and relaxed café culture. Stroll through the centre, stop at pavement cafés and browse a mix of local shops and designer boutiques.

Beyond the town, Kitzbühel is a great choice for walking holidays. With over 1,000 kilometres of marked trails, routes range from gentle valley walks to longer mountain hikes. Its location between Innsbruck and Salzburg also makes it a convenient base for exploring the wider region.

Our favourite walks

Lake Schwarzee

Visit Lake Schwarzsee, set within a peaceful woodland area just outside Kitzbühel. A gentle 30-minute walk leads to the lakeshore, where you can swim in the clear water or hire a rowing boat. If you’d like to walk further, a 1-2 hour route circles the lake, offering changing views through woodland and open areas. It’s an easy walk that’s ideal for slowing the pace and spending time outdoors.

Duration: 2 Hours

Kitzbüheler Horn

Take a scenic walk to Kitzbüheler Horn, where beautiful panoramic views await. Hop on the Alpenhaus cable car and from there, you’ll begin your ascent with a lovely stroll through the Alpine flower garden. Make sure you take a moment to appreciate the beauty of these alpine treasures before continuing your ascent. Once you’ve reached the Gipfelhaus Alm, you’ll be presented with stunning panoramic vistas of the Kitzbüheler Alps and Hohe Tauern National Park. 

Duration: 2 Hours

Walking in Ischgl: High alpine wonders in a stunning valley

Escape to the peaceful resort of Ischgl, located in the picturesque Paznaun Valley and surrounded by the majestic Silvretta mountains. While this Tyolean gem is famous for its lively ski season, it undergoes a charming transformation in the summer months. We love its low-key village atmosphere, where you can unwind and enjoy weekly brass band concerts and delightful Tyrolean evenings. 

For those seeking more active pursuits, Ischgl is also a haven for adventurous walkers seeking high alpine trails. With an extensive network of trails and magnificent peaks reaching heights of nearly 3,000 metres, this resort is a haven for outdoor lovers. Whether you’re up for a challenging walk or a leisurely stroll, Ischgl has trails for all.

Our Favourite Walks

Zeinisjoch to Lake Weigensee

This gentle walk begins in the village of Galtür, following a gradually rising path with open views along the way. A stop at the Zeinisjoch Alm is a good chance to pause and enjoy the surrounding scenery. The route finishes at Lake Weigensee, set among high mountain peaks and offering a peaceful spot to rest before heading back.

Duration: 3 hours

Fimbatal to Heldelberger Hut

This full-day walk leads through the Fimbatal Valley to the well-known Heidelberger Hut. Starting from the church in Ischgl, the route passes through one of the quieter and less developed parts of the Paznaun Valley. The trail follows open valley scenery with chances to spot rare alpine plants along the way. At the end of the walk, the Heidelberger Hut offers a welcoming place to rest, with high-quality local food available before the return journey.

Duration: Full day