Get back to nature in the Hochkönig region
Why you should explore the mountains of Austria’s SalzburgerLand with the family this summer
Summertime in the Hochkönig region is the Austrian Alps at its most fragrant. In this laid-back region of SalzburgerLand, the mountains and valleys are smothered in wild herbs that scent the clean Alpine air. Families can get back to nature in Hochkönig’s spectacular surroundings – helped by mountain lifts that run summer-long and take you to the heart of these majestic peaks.
Scented trails
Among Hochkönig’s 340km of hiking trails is a route that will get the senses going. Follow the special trail that leads to 16 herb huts – farms and restaurants that grow some of the headiest herbs in the region. Taste them for yourself over a relaxed lunch in the mountain sunshine.
With 545km of bike trails, cyclists of all ages can get their thrills on the mountains. If you want to get to know the area on two wheels, try the four stages of the Königstour – complete with luggage transfers to make the ride easier. Young beginner mountain bikers can try the Flow One trail that sends you zooming down the track for 3.3km.
As e-bikes become more popular, Hochkönig is leading the way with more charging stations scattered around in convenient locations. You could rent an e-bike for the 113km ii-Tour from Maria Alm to Dienten and Mühlbach, which handily features charging stations en route.
Active fun
If you’re travelling with small children, let them loose on the adventure playground at Natrun in Maria Alm. There’s also the Forest Slide Park and its five shiny slides that let you whizz down from the summit to the valley below. Kids can test their putting prowess on the 18-hole mini golf course near the Natrun lift, and there are also archery lessons at the 3D archery course at Jufenalm. For a gentle experience, take the family to the wildlife enclosure at Jufenalm to see red deer, mouflons and other furry creatures in their natural habitat.
Food for thought
Whichever way you’re exploring the mountains, you’ll find plenty of enticing places to stop for lunch. There are 70 mountain huts sprinkled all over Hochkönig, and the views from the terraces will be as gorgeous as the food. The region’s huts – and hotels – are keeping up with the growing number of vegan visitors and offering creative menus.
And don’t forget to pick up your Hochkönig Card from your accommodation. You’ll get free unlimited rides on mountain lifts – including bike transport – as well as the buses that connect Maria Alm, Dienten and Mühlbach. Walkers, take note: the free Hochkönig hiking bus will take you to the starting point of your hike or day tour.
Visit austria.info/summer , salzburgerland.com and hochkoenig.at to find out more about Austria’s SalzburgerLand