The best walks and hikes in Austria

Alpine trekking in Austria

Hikes in Austria benefit from having access to incredible mountain valleys, each leading to a veritable labyrinth of trails. You can set out from a pretty valley town and idle along flat routes, admiring wildflowers, traditional alpine lodges and the surrounding peaks all day long. 

If a gentle climb is your thing, throughout the mountain valleys you’ll find trails that gradually wind their way up through coniferous forests, past streams cascading down from the summits above and with birdsong filling the air. Meadows hosting grazing animals are everywhere, only adding to the flawless, picturesque nature of the country. 

If it’s a multi-day trek at altitude you’re after, not only will you find phenomenal high routes, you’ll also find fantastic mountain cafes with staggering views. Seriously challenging trails can be found in the Austrian Alps, where you can hike hut to hut and get to know the tremendous mountainous heart of the nation. 

Lakes, rivers and the mighty Danube

Austria has more beautiful mountain lakes than you can shake a walking pole at and they make for brilliant objectives on walks. The best hiking trails in Austria will usually provide you with at least a glimpse of a sprawling lake, sometimes with villages nestled along the banks, other times so secluded you feel like you’re the only person who knows they exist. 

In late spring, meltwater cascades down waterfalls and into valleys and the summer hiking season is on the horizon. Plenty of mountain valleys have sweeping rivers, many emptying into the Inn river which itself is a tributary of the mighty Danube.

Cutting across the north east of Austria, the beautiful Danube is an excellent guide for majestic hikes. Winding through forested hills and past verdant vineyards, this river is a hugely important presence. 

Hiking whenever the fancy takes you

Quiet walks in Austria are always possible thanks to its incredible number of trails but you’ll notice the busyness of alpine towns and cafes between June and August. The hiking season extends from April to October, with snow still present at altitude. 

Many of the lower mountain valleys stay relatively snow-free throughout the year and winter hiking is stunning, with snow heaped high above and clear trails. Classic alpine scenes arrive with spring, when Austria is rampant with birds, wildflowers and sunshine. It is during this time, on the cusp of spring and summer, that hiking is arguably at its best.