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Austria's Lake District

The lakes & mountains of Salzkammergut
 
Enjoy leisurely self-guided, hotel-to-hotel walking amid magnificent lakes and mountain scenery, while your luggage is transported…highlights include visiting a UNESCO World Heritage Site and easy access to gentle high-level walks.
Austria's Lake District. 4 nights
+44 (0)1653 617001 Call now
Austria's Lake District. 4 nights
+44 (0)1653 617001 Call now
 

Holiday information

 

A walking break in Salzkammergut

To the east of Salzburg, in the shadow of the mighty Dachstein (2,995 metres), dramatic mountains plunge into sparkling blue lakes, creating almost fjord-like landscapes made all the more enchanting by the idyllic villages which clamber up the slopes above the lakes. Inviting paths lead alongside the water at the foot of the mountains, and cable cars give easy access to the high mountains, for gentle walks across meadows, surrounded by dramatic peaks.
Of the region's many lakes, we have chosen Hallstättersee, which forms part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site and is crowned by the splendid village of Hallstatt, the jewel of the region. This is a traditional area, where the people continue to wear Lederhosen and Dirndls, and where typical Austrian fare, with an accent on fish from the lakes, is enjoyed.
 
Gallery
 

Itinerary

The key to Inntravel holidays is flexibility. You can start on the day of your choice, and are free to add extra nights.
  • The average maximum daytime temperatures and monthly rainfall relate to the nearest weather station and are intended as a guide only.
    Average temperatures and rainfall
      Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
    °C 2 4 8 13 18 21 23 22 19 14 7 2
    mm 74 71 78 97 126 167 176 157 99 79 84 88
  • Arrival in St Agatha 
    Night 1: at Agathawirt (the first of two nights here).
    As your first night’s accommodation is on the day of travel, Day 1 is your first day of walking.
  • Choice of walks from St Agatha: 8km to 15.5km

    Rathlucken Hütte and Ewige Wand (recommended option): 15.5km, 6hrs; ascent/descent 395m
    More strenuous than the rest of the routes on this break, this is nevertheless a rewarding circular walk that takes you uphill through woodland and flower-filled meadows. You might like to pause for lunch at the Rathlucken Hütte before continuing to the breathtakingly panoramic balcony of the Ewige Wand, which commands spectacular views of the mountains and valley below. You walk back along the river or could hop on the bus for a shorter return route if you prefer.

    Bad Goisern circuit: 9km, 3.5hrs; ascent/descent 160m
    For something gentler, follow the River Traun through woodland to the enchanting village of Bad Goisern, then return to St Agatha through meadows.

    St Agatha to Hallstatt: 12.5km, 4.5hrs; ascent/descent 110m
    With its dramatic fusion of mountain and lake, this is a splendid and thoroughly enjoyable walk. You follow an easy path alongside the edge of Hallstättersee, and reach the historic town via a delightful journey across the lake on the steamer (pay locally). Approaching this way, you get the best views of Hallstatt and can appreciate how the houses clamber up the slope, seemingly one on top of the other. For a slightly longer outward route (add 2km), continue to Obertraun and catch the ferry (pay locally) over to Hallstatt from there. To return to St Agatha you take the boat (pay locally) across the lake and then walk along the peaceful eastern shore back to your hotel.

    Visit Bad Ischl
    Today you also have the option to travel by bus or train to Bad Ischl – a picturesque riverside town which was once the summer capital of the great Austro-Hungarian monarchy.
    Approaching Hallstatt
    Rathlucken Hütte and Ewige Wand: 15.5km
    Bad Goisern circuit: 9km, 3.5hrs
    St Agatha to Hallstatt, outward leg: 8km
  • St Agatha to Gosau: 11km, 4hrs; ascent 120m/descent 320m
    The day starts with a taxi transfer to Gosau, offering spectacular views of the Dachstein range. You drop off your luggage before continuing by taxi to Vorderer Gosausee, where a scenic path leads along the lake's wooded shores and those of its neighbour. After walking round this beautiful lake, you can choose to return to Gosau by bus (pay locally; deduct 4.5km) or descend beside the river to the Gosauerhof, your base for your final two nights.
    Walking around Gosausee
    St Agatha to Gosau: 11km
  • Choice of walks from Gosau: 8km to 10.5km

    Zwieselalm to Gosau: 10.5km, 4hrs; ascent 165m/descent 915m
    This walk begins with a cable car journey to the Zwieselalm from where you can enjoy views over Gosausee and the Dachstein peaks. From here the route slowly descends to Gosau across pastures, meadows and woodland, again with fabulous views over the mountains and surrounding countryside.

    Zwieselalm to Stuhlalm: 8km, 3.5hrs; ascent/descent 430m
    Also beginning from the Zwieselalm, this shorter route is only suitable for experienced mountain walkers as care needs to be taken on the rocky paths. The destination, however, is very special – the mountain lodges situated beneath the towering peaks of the Gousakamm.

    Gosau Valley circuit: 10.5km, 4hrs; ascent/descent 225m
    As a final walk, we suggest a gentle circuit around Gosau, which affords far-reaching views of the valley and surrounding mountains. Stop for refreshments, perhaps, at the secluded Gasthaus Echo, before returning to the hotel via a quiet riverside path.
    On the Gosau Valley circuit
    Zwieselalm to Gosau: 10.5km
    Zwieselalm to Stuhlalm: 8km
    Gosau Valley circuit: 10.5km
 

Accommodation

A warm welcome and excellent local cuisine awaits.

Please note: most beds in Austrian hotels are normally one large base with two mattresses/duvets. We refer to these as 'Austrian Twins' and they are locally regarded to serve requests for both double and twin bedded rooms. Separate twin beds or traditional double beds with one large mattress are rare and cannot be guaranteed.
 

Extend your stay

 
Prices & travel options
All prices are in £ sterling (GBP). If you'd like to see what they equate to in your currency, use the converter. For general information on pricing, see the 'your holiday price explained' page.
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  • 4 nights: 03 June 2023 - 15 October 2023 & 03 June 2024 - 15 October 2024

    Start any day | End by latest date(s) shown above

    Starting Price Single room
    3 - 12 Jun 2023 £755 £85
    13 - 28 Jun 2023 £775 £85
    29 Jun - 17 Jul 2023 £805 £85
    18 Jul - 21 Aug 2023 £820 £85
    22 - 31 Aug 2023 £805 £85
    1 - 10 Sep 2023 £775 £85
    11 - 30 Sep 2023 £755 £85
    1 - 11 Oct 2023 £740 £85
    3 - 12 Jun 2024 £835 £94
    13 - 28 Jun 2024 £855 £94
    29 Jun - 17 Jul 2024 £890 £94
    18 Jul - 21 Aug 2024 £905 £94
    22 - 31 Aug 2024 £890 £94
    1 - 10 Sep 2024 £855 £94
    11 - 30 Sep 2024 £835 £94
    1 - 11 Oct 2024 £815 £94
    3rd & 4th person discount -£165 to -£180
    Single traveller supplement £165 to £185

    Includes accommodation, meals and services integral to the holiday as described, plus walking notes and maps, but no travel from the UK, nor any connecting travel from the airport unless stated below.

    Included travel: return taxi from Salzburg Airport

    Book your flights through us and we'll find the best route and times to suit you. Please contact us to find out more about our flight booking service. We can also book connecting travel - see below.

  • Extra nights (£ per person per night) in a double or single room

    Agathawirt, St Agatha (with dinner) Double room Single room
    03 Jun - 30 Jun 2023 £84 £100
    01 Jul - 17 Jul 2023 £94 £110
    18 Jul - 21 Aug 2023 £102 £118
    22 Aug - 11 Sep 2023 £94 £110
    12 Sep - 15 Oct 2023 £84 £100
    03 Jun - 30 Jun 2024 £92 £110
    01 Jul - 17 Jul 2024 £103 £121
    18 Jul - 21 Aug 2024 £112 £130
    22 Aug - 11 Sep 2024 £103 £121
    12 Sep - 15 Oct 2024 £92 £110
    Gosauerhof, Gosau (with dinner) Double room Single room
    03 Jun - 30 Jun 2023 £88 £104
    01 Jul - 31 Aug 2023 £96 £112
    01 Sep - 15 Oct 2023 £88 £104
    03 Jun - 30 Jun 2024 £97 £115
    01 Jul - 31 Aug 2024 £106 £124
    01 Sep - 15 Oct 2024 £97 £115
  • RECOMMENDED AIRPORT(S):
    Salzburg
    As an alternative to flying, we can arrange rail travel from London

    Travelling from the UK

    Travelling from outside the UK

    If you are flying from outside Europe,  we recommend flying via Munich.  To discuss onward connecting travel to the start of your holiday, please contact us.

    Travelling from outside the UK
    We have many years' experience catering for customers who live outside the UK, and will be happy to make tailored arrangements to fit with your plans.

    You have two options:

    1) Book your own flights to London, from where we can book flights and onward connecting travel to your hotel.

    2) Book your own flights direct to an airport appropriate to your chosen holiday. You can either make your own way from the airport to the hotel, or we'll be happy to book onward connecting travel for you. Please consult with us before booking your flights, so that we can advise you on the suitability of your proposed route and timings.
    Outward route Airline
    Aberdeen - Salzburg (via Frankfurt) Lufthansa 
    Outward route Airline
    Belfast Intl. - Salzburg easyJet,  jet2 
    Outward route Airline
    Birmingham - Salzburg Eurowings,  jet2,  TUI 
    Birmingham - Salzburg (via Düsseldorf) Eurowings 
    Birmingham - Salzburg (via Frankfurt) Lufthansa 
    Outward route Airline
    Bristol - Salzburg jet2 
    Bristol - Salzburg (via Frankfurt) Lufthansa 
    Outward route Airline
    Edinburgh - Salzburg (via Frankfurt) Lufthansa 
    Outward route Airline
    Glasgow - Salzburg TUI 
    Glasgow - Salzburg (via Frankfurt) Lufthansa 
    Outward route Airline
    London City - Salzburg British Airways 
    London City - Salzburg (via Frankfurt) Lufthansa 
    Outward route Airline
    Gatwick - Salzburg British Airways,  easyJet,  TUI 
    Outward route Airline
    Heathrow - Salzburg Eurowings,  Lufthansa 
    Heathrow - Salzburg (via Frankfurt) Lufthansa 
    Outward route Airline
    Stansted - Salzburg jet2,  Ryanair 
    Outward route Airline
    Manchester - Salzburg Ryanair,  TUI 
    Manchester - Salzburg (via Düsseldorf) Eurowings 
    Manchester - Salzburg (via Frankfurt) Lufthansa 
    Manchester - Salzburg (via Hamburg) Eurowings 
    Outward route Airline
    Newcastle - Salzburg TUI 
    Outward route Airline
    Teesside International - Salzburg (via Amsterdam Schiphol) KLM 
    Travelling from outside the UK

    If you are flying from outside Europe,  we recommend flying via Munich.  To discuss onward connecting travel to the start of your holiday, please contact us.

    This list of flight options should be used as a guide only, and you should check each airline’s website for current routes, frequency and schedules. Not all flights operate daily, and may not run for the entire season. You should also heed the latest flight arrival time and earliest flight departure time stated in the connecting travel section, as it may not be possible to arrange connecting travel outside these times. Please do not book your flights until we have confirmed your accommodation to you. Alternatively, our expert reservations team will be happy to offer advice and to make flight bookings for you for any of the options listed above. We charge £35 per person for our flight booking service. Your flights are then covered by our package-booking conditions, which give you greater protection in the event of delay or cancellation, as well as providing ATOL cover.

  • Prices below are based on 2 people travelling together. If you are travelling solo or as a party of 3 or more and our arrangements include a taxi, please contact us for prices; additional passengers often pay less.

    Unless otherwise stated, connecting travel by rail or bus tends to be from the city centre station, rather than from its airport, and connections between the two should be paid for locally.

    Where a price range is given, the price you pay depends on your date of travel.
     

    Connecting travel options - flying via Salzburg

    Outward route Price per person Latest flight
    arrival time
    direct taxi Salzburg airport to hotel (1h) included flexible
    rail Salzburg HB to Steeg-Gosau (2h10), taxi Steeg-Gosau to hotel (0h05) £40-£44 reduction 1600
    Homeward route Price per person Earliest flight
    departure time
    taxi hotel to Golling-Abtenau (0h40), rail Golling-Abtenau to Salzburg HB (0h30) £30-£33 reduction 1200
    direct taxi hotel to Salzburg airport (1h) included flexible
What is included
  • 4 nights
  • 4 dinners
    4 breakfasts
  • luggage transported
  • route notes and maps
  • GPS navigation
  • taxi from/to Salzburg airport
  • transfer on day 2
 
Reviews

If you've experienced this holiday first hand, why not write a review?

We are keen for as many customers as possible to review their holiday. To make it easier to do so, we include a specific review section on our post-holiday questionnaire, and this is what we publish here, unedited. Read our full review policy >

 

FAQs

If you have any questions relating to this or any other Inntravel holiday, our friendly travel experts will be happy to help. You might also find our General FAQs section helpful.
  • We’ll send you route notes and maps 2-3 weeks before your holiday. The route notes not only contain directions to get from A to B, but also include practical information about places of interest and eateries along each route, plus cultural information about the area. If/when you are moving between hotels, you leave your luggage in reception as you leave, and it will be transferred ahead to your next accommodation, meaning that all you need to take with you are a camera, sun cream, drinks, food and waterproofs.

    For more detailed information, see our walking holidays in Europe page.
  • Yes, prior to going on holiday you will be able to download GPX tracks so that you can follow your route on your smartphone or dedicated GPS device if you wish. It’s entirely up to you whether or not you use them – our detailed, step-by-step route notes remain the principal means of guiding you from A to B – but we provide them as a secondary means of navigation for additional reassurance when walking.
  • We can book a wide range of routes from the UK with a variety of airlines. As well as being more convenient for you to book all elements of your holiday together, it also means that we’ll accept liability for your travel arrangements, so if things go wrong, such as the airline going bust, we’ll make suitable alternative arrangements for you. The fee for this service is £35 per person (£15 for children aged 2-11). More information on flights >
  • We can’t book flights that originate outside the UK, but if you wanted to book your own flights to London (or elsewhere in the UK), we can make all onward travel arrangements (including flights) from there. Alternatively, if you are booking your own flights to an airport in continental Europe that’s appropriate for your holiday, we can book onward rail travel and/or taxis. More information about how we can tailor holidays for customers outside the UK >
  • Since our holidays are self-guided, we recommend calling us for a chat about your plans before making a booking, especially if it’s the first time you’ve booked with us.
    The price panel shows the supplement for a single room and also the single traveller charge (this covers (luggage) transfers and other costs which are usually shared between two people).
  • Once you’ve decided on your exact itinerary (our travel experts will be happy to offer advice), you need to provide us with your party’s details, either by phone or via our booking form. At this point we also ask you to pay a deposit so that we can secure a room for you immediately on confirming availability with the hotel(s). If it turns out that we can’t secure the accommodation for the holiday you’ve requested, or offer an acceptable alternative, we’ll refund your deposit promptly and in full. After booking your accommodation and other key elements, we'll then book your travel (or you can do so if you’re making your own arrangements) and send you a Booking Confirmation and Invoice.

    More information about the booking process >
    Information about accommodation, general practicalities and more >
    Booking conditions >
  • Yes, it’s something we insist on, even for holidays in the UK. The vast majority of holidays go smoothly, but when things go wrong, it can be expensive to put them right. Buying a new pair of walking boots after your suitcase is stolen mightn’t seem so bad, but the bill for being airlifted down from a mountain with a broken leg or flown home while still recovering from an illness or accident can incur a five or six-figure bill.

    Many insurers offer travel insurance (you can find details on our insurance page of a policy that you may like to consider if you are a UK resident), but you do need to make sure that you’re covered for medical emergencies – including falling ill with Covid-19 while on holiday – and repatriation. We also recommend that you are covered for other eventualities, such as cancellation and loss of luggage and passports.

    When you purchase a policy, be sure to check that it covers the activities you'll be doing on holiday and that it is adequate for your own individual needs.
  • It is your responsibility to ensure you are in possession of the correct travel documents, with the correct validity. If you’re a UK citizen, you need a full British passport to travel to Austria, but not a visa (please note, however, that a new travel authorisation system is being introduced). If you are a citizen of another country, you’ll need to check requirements with the national embassy or your own consulate.

    Current information regarding vaccinations and travel health advice for UK citizens can be found through the Travel Health Pro website. You must make sure you have adequate insurance cover for illness, accidents and repatriation (see the insurance question). You should also apply for a Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) if your EHIC has expired (if you have a still-valid EHIC, you can use this until it expires).
  • (Austrian) German is the most commonly spoken language. The currency is the Euro. Austrian time is GMT/UTC + 1. It uses Daylight Saving Time, so in summer is on BST + 1.
  • For information on the practicalities of travel now that the UK is no longer part of the European Union, visit www.gov.uk/visit-eu-switzerland-norway-iceland-liechtenstein.
  • The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) provides up-to-date, country-by-country travel advice, as well as information on security, local laws, passports and visas for UK citizens.

    If you live outside the UK, see our essential travel information page for a list of relevant websites.
  • You are the best judge of your child’s/children’s capabilities. We are happy to take bookings for families of older children/teenagers if they walk regularly, love the outdoors and are comfortable with the distances and ascent/descent involved. Please note that the bedrooms at most of the accommodation we use will normally only sleep a maximum of 3 people, and sometimes only 2.
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