The Austrian Alps change dramatically with the seasons. In winter, snow blankets the landscape and life revolves around skiing, snowboarding and other winter sports. In summer, valleys turn a vibrant green and the air stays crisp—perfect for walking, cycling and switching off in the great outdoors.
In this guide you’ll find what to see, where to stay and how to make the most of your trip, plus nearby towns and cities worth a detour. If you’re after a destination that flexes to your tastes and the time of year, the Austrian Alps deliver.
Winter and snow in the Austrian Alps
Dry air, clear skies and mountains cloaked in perfect powder: that’s winter in the Austrian Alps. Resorts are in full swing and days centre on the slopes: alpine skiing, cross-country, snowboarding, tobogganing… whatever your level, there’s plenty to enjoy, whether it’s your first time or you’ve been carving turns for years.
Among the best-known resorts are St. Anton am Arlberg, famed for its runs and lively après-ski, and Kitzbühel, world-renowned for the Hahnenkamm downhill. For cross-country enthusiasts, the Zillertal valley offers kilometres of beautifully groomed trails.
But it isn’t all about clipping into skis. You’ll find snowshoe routes, spas with mountain views and unhurried villages to wander. The pace shifts down a gear, and any excuse will do to warm your hands around a hot chocolate or a mug of mulled wine.
If you’re seeking quality snow, well-kept scenery and fewer crowds, this corner of the Alps fits the bill.
Summer in the Austrian Alps
When the snow recedes, the Alps reveal another face: green meadows, big skies and gentle temperatures. It’s the moment for easygoing hikes, lungfuls of fresh air and quiet time in nature.
Waymarked trails suit all abilities. Hohe Tauern National Park lays on paths through woodland and alpine pasture with views to glaciers, while the Salzkammergut region is dotted with mountain lakes such as Wolfgangsee, ideal for waterside strolls.
If two wheels are more your pace, the Tyrolean Alps cycle route is a classic, with options for both road and mountain bikes. For a dash of adventure, the Wilder Kaiser area tempts with climbing routes and paragliding against a spectacular backdrop.
Villages like Hallstatt and St. Wolfgang keep their traditional architecture and invite you to linger on sun-splashed terraces. You could also take an easy outing to an alpine hut on the Schafberg, where hearty fare comes with unforgettable views.
Whatever you choose, summer in the Alps has a special quality: the sense of being a world away from the bustle, close to nature and with time on your side.
Towns and cities to visit
The Austrian Alps and Innsbruck
The Austrian Alps are a tapestry of lofty peaks, green valleys and characterful villages. Innsbruck, capital of Tyrol, balances history with a modern, outdoorsy spirit. Highlights include the medieval old town, the Golden Roof and a lively year-round calendar. It’s also a superb springboard for nearby ski areas and summer activities.
Kleinwalsertal
Kleinwalsertal is a one-of-a-kind Austrian valley reached only via Germany, which lends it a distinctive, less crowded feel. Expect ski slopes for every level in winter and rewarding hiking in summer. Quiet nature and carefully tended landscapes make it a fine choice for an authentic alpine escape.
Seefeld
Seefeld strikes a neat balance between sport and relaxation. Its cross-country network ranks among Europe’s best, and in summer it becomes a hub for walkers and cyclists. The village keeps its traditional look and adds thoughtful dining and cultural options, with a family-friendly atmosphere and quality services.
Kufstein and other recommended spots
Kufstein is crowned by a historic fortress—catnip for lovers of culture and history. Elsewhere, Kitzbühel pairs an exclusive buzz with first-class slopes, while the Zillertal valley is a go-to for year-round outdoor pursuits.
Tips for travelling to the Austrian Alps
Before setting off on your holiday to the Austrian Alps, it’s worth bearing in mind a few points that will make your trip smoother and more enjoyable.
Choose the right season
Think about what you most want to do. If it’s snow sports and lively resort life, winter’s your moment. For quieter trails, fresh landscapes and a slower rhythm, summer is ideal. Plan accordingly and pack what you’ll need to make the most of it.
Book ahead
Resorts and hotels fill quickly in peak periods. Secure your dates in advance—last-minute in the Alps can be a gamble.
Transport
Public transport works well, but to reach rural corners or specific trailheads, hiring a car helps. In winter, check road conditions carefully—snow chains may be required.
Equipment
Bringing your own kit? Give it a thorough once-over before you travel. Prefer to pack light? You can hire everything you need on the spot.
Respect the environment
The Alps are a protected natural landscape. Stick to marked paths and respect local flora and fauna to help preserve this unique setting.
Travel insurance
Consider cover that includes sporting activities, especially if you plan to ski or hike at altitude.
Resorts in the Austrian Alps
Rest is a core part of any holiday. In the Austrian Alps, where you stay shapes the whole experience—mountain views, unhurried breakfasts, thoughtful design and the kind of quiet you only find here.
Lopesan Hotel Group offers stays to remember, where detail, comfort and well-being take centre stage. In the Kleinwalsertal valley, choose from three properties with everything you need:
IFA Alpenrose Hotel
Just a stone’s throw from the village of Mittelberg, the 3-star IFA Alpenrose Hotel blends traditional alpine style with modern comforts. At over 1,000 metres, it’s a brilliant base for hiking, cycling and skiing, with a sauna and heated pool for winding down afterwards.
IFA Alpenhof Wildental Hotel
Set 1.8 km from Mittelberg at 1,250 metres, the 4-star IFA Alpenhof Wildental Hotel is made for switching off in nature. Mountains all around, with easy access to walking routes and winter slopes.
IFA Breitach Apartments
IFA Breitach Apartments is a cluster of 32 apartments about 2 km from Mittelberg, nestled among dense conifer forest. It’s an inviting retreat after a day in the mountains, with access to more than 150 km of trails and all the essentials for a comfortable stay.
Each Lopesan Hotel Group property in the Austrian Alps is designed to offer a distinctive experience, pairing the beauty of the setting with services focused on your comfort and well-being.
If you’re after somewhere cosy, well located and tailored for unwinding, Lopesan Hotel Group is your next stop in the Austrian Alps.
