Dominated by snow-capped peaks, majestic glaciers and lush valleys, the Austrian Alps sprawl across nearly two-thirds of the country. They’re divided into three separate ranges that run east-to-west - the Northern Limestone Alps, the Central Alps and the Southern Limestone Alps.
Some of the region’s most spectacular landscapes are protected within Hohe Tauern National Park, which encompasses soaring mountains, alpine pastures and cascading waterfalls. It’s a popular setting for hiking, mountain biking and fishing in the summer months while transforming into a wintery wonderland for cross-country skiing and ice climbing during the snow season.
If you prefer to downhill ski, visit Nassfeld ski resort, which is nestled beneath the Nassfeld Pass near Austria’s border with Italy. There are around 110 kilometres of trails that suit all experience levels, including one of Carinthia’s longest runs. In the summer, you can jump aboard the Millennium-Express cable car to soak up beautiful mountain views or explore the magnificent hiking trails.
Getting there
Airports in Innsbruck, Salzburg and Vienna serve the Austrian Alps, as does an extensive network of train services. Many of the mountains can be accessed via cable cars or on foot.