SalzburgerLand in Summer
Holidays between Alpine pastures, lakes, and waterfalls

Crystal-clear lakes and waterfalls, Alpine meadows, forests, and an enchanting mountain world: In SalzburgerLand, you'll feel close to nature, airy and light.

A summer holiday in SalzburgerLand feels like a light and breezy day by the lake, a hearty snack at a mountain hut, or a picnic in the countryside with your loved ones. In SalzburgerLand, nature takes centre stage. The warm season even has its own name here: "Almsommer" or Alpine Summer. It’s all about active days and enjoying the outdoors – pure Alpine lifestyle! The people of SalzburgerLand love all kinds of outdoor activities in the fresh air. And how could they not, with such an abundance of lakes, forests, mountains, and Alpine pastures?

Take, for example, Hohe Tauern National Park: Austria’s largest national park is a standout when it comes to biodiversity, Alpine landscapes, and waterfalls. Salzburg's lake district is loved for its crystal-clear lakes, while the Salzkammergut region has lived up to its reputation as a picturesque summer retreat for almost 200 years.

Quick facts about SalzburgerLand
Capital city:Salzburg
Area:7,156 km²
Population:approx. 571,500 (as of 2024)
Percentage of forest:51.9%
Highest mountain:Großvenediger (3,674 m)
National Park:Hohe Tauern
Nature Parks:3
Spas:6

SalzburgerLand Card
This visitor card gives you access to attractions and excursion destinations in the province of SalzburgerLand and the city of Salzburg.

Events in SalzburgerLand
Find highlights during your stay in SalzbugerLand's calendar of events.

Meet SalzburgerLand

Top highlights

Pristine & protected

Hohe Tauern National Park

The Alps' largest national park exceeds even the boldest expectations: The protected region boasts over 250 peaks above 3,000 metres and 342 glaciers in the midst of pristine nature. At its heart is the Großglockner. Standing at 3,798 metres, it is Austria’s highest mountain, towering over the massif. The famous Großglockner High Alpine Road offers a thrilling, winding drive up to Austria’s highest viewing platform.

The homeland of eagles, ibex, and marmots can be explored with the guidance of national park rangers, while the National Park Museum in Mittersill creatively showcases the park’s highlights.

Regions

Cities and places

Experience 2,600 years of history

Top day trip: Salzwelten salt mines

As early as the 6th century BC, Celts were settling in Hallein near Salzburg due to local salt deposits. However, the name "Salzburg" (literally, "Salt Fortress") wasn't documented until around 755. From 1190 onwards, the thriving salt trade brought wealth and influence to Salzburg's archbishops – the baroque buildings inspired by Italian architecture still bear witness to this today. The Salzach River was the most important transport route for salt.

The annexation to the Habsburg Monarchy in 1816 brought an end to the trade, as the Habsburgs favoured the salt mines in Hallstatt and Bad Ischl. The Hallein saltworks in SalzburgerLand were finally closed in 1989. Today, visitors can still experience the salt mine on an impressive guided tour.

SalzburgerLand's top sights: Music, art, and nature

Top events

Famous personalities

Food and drink in SalzburgerLand: Experience the creative, enjoy the traditional

Recipes

Unique places to stay

Going green

Why is Alpine farming so important?
  • Alpine farming helps preserve the cultural landscape and ensures the safety of valleys, as managed Alpine pastures prevent avalanches and mudslides.

  • It prevents overgrowth, which in turn promotes biodiversity.

  • Up to 70 different herbs can grow per square metre on Alpine meadows (compared to an average of just seven in the valley). This biodiversity is crucial for nature.

  • Alpine farmers and herders produce valuable dairy products from the milk of cows, sheep, and goats.

  • Alpine pastures offer an energising retreat in a beautiful mountain landscape.

FAQs

  • Cycle along rivers or pedal high up into the mountains

  • Hike over Alpine pastures to the summit and enjoy a panoramic view of lakes and glaciers.

  • Go golfing in front of mighty mountain ranges and lakes.

  • From windsurfing to white-water rafting, enjoy a variety of water sports.

  • Saalbach Hinterglemm

    The valley in the middle of the Pinzgau grass mountains is an ideal holiday destination for mountain bikers and families.

  • Hochkönig

    This mighty mountain (2,181 m) and its surroundings are perfect for an active holiday.

  • Gastein Valley

    Magnificent Art Nouveau buildings give the valley its special charm.

  • Zell am See-Kaprun

    A wonderful mix of glacier, mountains, and lake.

  • Obertauern

    Inspiring views, magnificent Alpine hikes.

  • Lungau

    The region's Alpine peaks, pastures, and mountain lakes are best explored on foot or by bike.

  • Hohe Tauern National Park

    The region boasts over 250 peaks over 3,000 metres and 342 glaciers.

  • Wolfgangsee: A picturesque lake in the Salzkammergut region, surrounded by the mountains of the Dachstein massif.

  • Lake Zell: A large lake near Zell am See, popular for water sports such as sailing, windsurfing, and swimming.

  • Lake Fuschl: A beautiful lake in the Salzkammergut region, known for its clear water and tranquil atmosphere. Fuschlsee is a popular destination for swimming, boating, and walking.

  • Hintersee: A picturesque mountain lake in the Tennengebirge mountains, surrounded by impressive rock formations.

  • Wallersee: Famous for water sports such as sailing, surfing, and fishing.

  • Mattsee: Popular due to its crystal-clear water and charming surroundings, Lake Mattsee is a popular destination for water sports such as swimming, sailing, and windsurfing.

  • Lake Obertrum: Part of the Trumer lake district in Flachgau, Lake Obertrum is a popular destination for water sports such as sailing, surfing, and stand-up paddling.

The SalzburgerLand Card is an all-in-one pass offering access to nearly 180 experiences and attractions in the city of Salzburg and the wider SalzburgerLand region. Available for either 6 or 12 days, this guest card includes:

  • Lakes and swimming pools

  • Castles and palaces

  • Museums and exhibitions

  • Show mines

  • Nature adventures

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