The Gastein Valley is one of Austria’s most varied regions for active holidays. Gentle valleys, high-alpine peaks, crystal-clear mountain lakes and hundreds of kilometres of marked trails await hikers and cyclists of every level. At Hotel Sonngastein, you are right in the heart of the Hohe Tauern National Park – with everything you need for a varied hiking holiday in Austria: fresh air, impressive nature and beautiful views.
Few regions in Austria offer hikers as much variety as the Gastein Valley. Gentle valley paths, wide alpine trails and high-altitude routes in the Hohe Tauern National Park mean there is a route for every level. At around 1,800 metres, the scenery opens up: turquoise mountain lakes, welcoming alpine huts and plenty of time outdoors. And from Hotel Sonngastein, your walking holiday in the Austrian Alps begins right away – even with your dog.
In the hiking paradise of Hohe Tauern National Park
More than 600 km of marked hiking trails cross the Gastein Valley – from gentle alpine walks and historic promenades in Bad Gastein to longer routes such as the Gastein Trail or the Salzburg Almenweg.
If you want to head higher, the mountain lifts offer an easy way into alpine terrain. We will be happy to help you find the right route for your hiking holiday in Austria.
Three to four times a week, we accompany you into the mountains – sometimes on a gentle walk, sometimes on a longer tour up into the high alpine parts of the valley. The route depends on mood, fitness and weather. Our Bobtails Wolly and Schnuffel often join us too. As your host family, we know the most beautiful corners of the Gastein Valley and are happy to share them as part of our weekly programme. Hiking with the Zitka family is something many of our guests particularly appreciate.
Feel the wind on your face, take in the next bend and simply enjoy the views. In the Gastein Valley, there are cycling options for every level – from gentle valley routes along the Gasteiner Ache to challenging gravel and mountain bike tours with views of the Hohe Tauern three-thousand-metre peaks. For those who enjoy cycling, this is one of the most beautiful biking regions in Salzburg province.
Easy family rides through the valley, with plenty of time for nature and enjoying the moment. Long climbs and switchbacks that reward you with mountain views. Challenging mountain bike routes to the Stubnerkogel or Fulseck for strong legs. The Gastein Valley offers 24 marked cycling routes for every level. All tours can be found on the interactive Gastein cycling map.
E-biking and mountain biking are becoming more and more popular in the Gastein Valley – for good reason. As a certified mountain bike destination, the region offers flowing trails, technical sections and wide mountain views for every level.
A special plus: every Thursday, a guided e-bike tour starts directly at the hotel and heads beyond the familiar routes into the Hohe Tauern mountains. Your Zitka host family is always happy to share a few local insider tips too.
No bike of your own? No problem. At Hotel Sonngastein, touring bikes, trekking bikes and mountain bikes in various sizes are available free of charge for children and adults. Child seats, bike trailers and tandem solutions are also available. Prefer a little extra support? E-bikes can be hired for a fee. Bikes can be arranged easily on site through reception.