The best Austria summer activities

The Austrian Alps are typically viewed as a winter destination. However, when summer comes along, the snow gives way to a host of activities for holidaymakers to enjoy along with spectacular scenery, making it a great place to escape the everyday and switch off.

Summer in the Austrian Alps typically includes sun-drenched days and blue skies, making it a great alternative to destinations with sand and sea. If you’re considering an Alpine holiday this summer, then check out our guide to some of the best Austria summer activities, from summer tobogganing in Austria, to thrilling hikes and bike trails to explore.

Austria summer activities

Ride the Alpine Coaster in Saalfelden

A guaranteed crowd-pleaser, Saalfelden’s Alpine Coaster offers a thrilling activity for the entire family. This Austria summer toboggan takes guests on an exhilarating 1.6 kms run through exquisite Alpine scenery, including 345-metres of altitude difference. Tailor the toboggan run by utilising your own speed with the toboggan’s gear shift. Located within striking distance of popular resorts, such as CLC World’s Alpine Centre Austria, this family friendly activity is guaranteed to delight all. An Austria summer activity must!

Explore the Bikepark Leogang

Biking is a popular Austria summer activity, and there is no better spot to enjoy this activity than at Bikepark Leogang. With more than 480-kms of cycle paths to explore, Bikepark Leogang offers the perfect destination for biking enthusiasts at all levels. Explore the Alps beautiful wildlife, stop for a picnic, and soak up spectacular Alpine views. Pedal power offers one of the best ways to reconnect with nature and enjoy the wonderful scenery of the Austrian Alps.

Head to the lakes

A trip to the lakes is a popular Austria summer activity with both locals and visitors alike. There are more than 300 lakes scattered across the Austrian Alps, many boasting crystal clear waters and even sandy beaches. A day at the lake is a great way to enjoy fun on the water, including boating, water-skiing, kayaking, windsurfing, stand up paddleboarding, and wakeboarding. Popular lakes include Lake Gosausee, Lake Traunsee, Lake Hallstatt, Lake Mondsee, Lake Irrsee, and Lake Zell.

Ski Austria’s glacier slopes

Winter sports in summer? Yes, you read that right! Skiing or snowboarding is not only a popular winter activity, but also a popular Austria summer activity too. During the height of summer, you’ll need to head to Kitzsteinhorn Glacier, located in the Hohe Tauern National Park. Sitting more than 3,000-metres above sea level here you’ll find powder white snow year-round, perfect for skiing or snowboarding whether you are a novice or seasoned professional.

Soak up some history and culture at Innsbruck

The majority of Austria’s land mass is covered by the Alps, so you’re never far away from a major town or city. Innsbruck is a town located in the heart of the Alps, surrounded by snow-capped mountains it offers a great way to learn more about Austria’s culture and heritage. Stroll the Old Town and enjoy a plethora of local boutiques, cafes and restaurants, visit the Cathedral of St. James and marvel at its Baroque architecture, and tour Schloss Ambras, a medieval fortress. Make sure you leave time to  ride the cable car to Hafelekar Peak where you will be rewarded with breath-taking panoramic views – an Austria summer activity must.

If you fancy an Alpine summer holiday to remember, then make sure you book accommodation that offers all the comforts of home coupled with world-class amenities, such as CLC World Resort’s Alpine Centre.

What other must-do Austria summer activities would you add to our list?