Austria's Lakes Winter Walking

When we were looking at this holiday, we wondered if going before Christmas was a wise decision, as there were so few reviews for this time of the year. However, we’re so glad we did!

We had the opportunity to combine enjoyment of the local landscape, dusted with snow which picked out the trees and the contours, with visits to Advent markets and to Salzburg and Bad Ischl when shops were decorated and the streets were alive with people, both locals and visitors. As the weather was not of the best, being cloudy and sometimes misty with temperatures hovering around freezing, we appreciated the added interest of bright lights, Nativity scenes and seasonal food and music. Although the Salzburg Advent Market is extensive we found it nothing like as attractive as the smaller markets in the villages, where traditional music enhanced the atmosphere and there were a number of life-size Nativity figures in different styles. We enjoyed Inntravel’s three suggested walks, and invested in our own copies of the two sheet Salzkammergut maps, which added context, and would give many additional walk options on a longer or subsequent holiday. The recommendation to try a fish soup lunch at the Fuschl fishery was appreciated, and contributed to a great first day. The Zwolferhorn webcam allowed us to keep an eye on conditions at the top of the mountain and to seize the opportunity on the one sunny day of the week. Although expensive the cable car trip to the top is well worth it for stunning views of the surrounding mountains and down over the Wolfgangsee. A stick proved essential for walking in snow, and on some of the steep and potentially slippery paths on the other walks. Sadly we were unable to try snowshoeing as there is no hire at the top of the Zwolferhorn, and the only option available from the hotel hadn’t had enough snow. The valley bus service was wonderful and we invested in the weekly ticket covering two zones for 32 euros each, which sensibly also allows you to visit Bad Ischl, with many Art Nouveau villas in the wider town. The Kaiservilla is open on Saturdays in Advent and although tours are only in German (brief notes available in English) it’s very interesting, if rather dear. In Salzburg we especially enjoyed the midday concert in the cathedral demonstrating several of the many organs, and the Weinachtsmuseum (Christmas Museum) which is fascinating, based around a private collection showcasing the years 1840-40. Be aware that despite being a major tourist attraction the museum has no toilets. And last, but not least, the delightful Hotel Seerose, where we felt immediately at home. We loved our spacious room, and unlike many hotels there was an expectation that you might both want to sit on a comfortable chair at the same time! Soundproofing was also excellent, so it was very quiet. However, we were glad we’d taken some light clothes as the room was very warm, and on a couple of nights we slept with the balcony door open despite outside temperatures being below freezing. The food was wonderful at both the breakfast buffet and the five course dinner, and we were able to sample a number of traditional dishes including Tafelspitz and soup with liver dumpling. Highlights included local honeycomb at breakfast and fish from the lake. We enjoyed the pool (we saw a kingfisher whilst swimming!) and the infra-red room and saunas, a lovely relaxing end to most afternoons. Many thanks are due to the lovely helpful owners and their staff, who made our stay so special.

The hotel could not be more accommodating, the food plentiful and excellent.

The walks well sign posted for all degrees of fitness.

Fuschl is a very pretty village in a scenic area.  The hotel was very comfortable and welcoming. We enjoyed using the panoramic pool in the mornings, the gym, and a sauna after a long walk.

The winter weather was very varied - warm and sunny, rainy with sleet, and then snow!  But we were able to find a good mix of low level and hill walks suitable for all weathers.

Amazing holiday apart from travel. Wonderful location, hotel, food, walks and info provided by Inntravel was superb! We will recommend you!

Thank you Inntravel for selecting Hotel Seerose for a winter holiday. The food, room, facilities and service were excellent and the atmosphere warm and relaxing. The staff and owners were helpful and friendly.  Beautiful location. Fuschl am See, St Gilgen and St Wolfgang quiet without the summer crowds which was fine for us. Tourist information open and staff helpful. Regular bus service to Salzburg and Bad Ischl with places to visit en route. 19 Euro ticket for 2 adults for unrestricted 24 hour bus travel excellent value. Although there wasn't any snow except on mountain tops, we were able to walk summer routes. The yellow signs and Inntravel walking notes were easy to follow. Most local shops shut at midday in winter but places open for coffee and other refreshment. Everywhere clean and well cared for. Salzburg and Bad Ischl interesting to visit and within easy reach. 

The whole holiday was fantastic (even without snow). The Inntravel booklet was extremely helpful and accurate, we took advantage of all the recommended walks and town/city visits. We shall most definitely book another holiday with Inntravel, their customer service from start to finish was outstanding.

We had an excellent holiday with Inntravel, we enjoyed every second and the hotel and food was great. Salzburg is an absolute must if you are a Sound of Music nut like me and I thoroughly enjoyed the Sound of Music Tour! If you are going to use buses every day, I believe there is a pass you can buy to save you money. We went into Salzburg a couple of times, we also took the bus to St Gilgen and took the cable car (68 euros for 2, but worth every penny) for a 4km snowy walk - there is a great restaurant up there. The hotel took us to a nearby ski resort, called Postalm - they have an arrangement with Inntravel to do this - a nice touch, we thought. On our last day, we did the 11km walk round Fuschl Lake, it was stunning and lunch at the fisherie is a must! Overall, we had a great time.

The Musical Instrument Museum in St Gilgen is wonderful.

Austrian cafes are lovely - some close soon after midday, and some are found in bakeries and confectioner's shops.

Many shops and other businesses are closed on Mondays.

The Zwolferhorn cable car is often shut down for a while in January and/or February for maintenance.

We loved the whole week, ideal relaxing time after a busy Christmas and New Year. The walks were great and so well marked. The tourist information centre was excellent and the buses ran on time and were very comfortable. Hotel Seerose was extremely comfortable with fantastic facilities and superb food, we've definitely come home heavier but very content. Austria was amazing the roads were extremely well maintained and even the public toilets were heated. A great break away.

Our TUI flight was delayed by 4 hours but on arrival we got the warmest welcome at Hotel Seerose at 11pm! One of the owners came out to greet us in Austrian costume and a cold platter was waiting for us with complimentary drinks. The location and hotel is magical at Christmas/New Year and 5 course dinners each night a wonderful surprise. We could not have been looked after any better and the attention to detail was exceptional.

An excellent holiday from start to finish. Position of hotel is especially good. A wonderful area.

You won`t be dissappointed with your stay at Seerose hotel, or the organisation of Inntravel, both were 5 star. The staff at the hotel were all friendly, the food was outstanding. Even the lack of snow in the valley (March), didn`t detract from the holiday. But when you are walking in the snow, higher up, it would be useful to have crampons and 2 sticks, not essential but would make the walking slightly easier. A visit to Salzburg and a trip up the cable car at St Gilgen, to walk the Circular Panaramic Walk are a must (both easily done by the local bus, pay on board and Visa accepted).

We stayed at the same hotel 3 years ago and liked the whole experience so much we booked the same holiday again. The family run hotel is wonderful and faultless!

This was our first trip with Inntravel - we will certainly use them again and have already recommended them to friends. From the first enquiry we were very impressed with the knowledge and helpfulness of the staff. They took time to understand our requirements and we were extremely happy with our holiday and the information provided to help us with walks and outings. The hotel was amazing, family run, and in a fabulous location. It was reassuring to hear from the owners of the hotel, that they were also impressed with the organisation and service provided by Inntravel. All in all, a great holiday.

Absolutely loved the location and hotel. Holiday was made all the better by a fresh fall of snow as this was what I had particularly booked to see and to walk through. It was magical. However, it might have felt very different had there been no snow and the weather had not obliged! In that case, I think I would have preferred a Spring or Autumn stay as there is less to do in winter if not enjoying the snow. It was very easy to get around on the local buses. Snowshoeing was great fun but quite demanding on energy. The visit up the cable car at Zwolferhorn gave spectacular views and a lovely walk and this was a real highlight of the week.

The area fortunately had a big snow dump just as we travelled to Austria, so we had a wonderful stay at Hotel Seerose. The high number of excellent winter walking paths nearby, or within a short bus-ride, exceeded our expectations, and the view from the top of the Zwolferhorn was amazing. The hotel lived up to its reviews, in particular the quality of the food, and the friendliness of all the staff. 

A wonderful relaxing holiday in a beautiful setting, we were lucky to have snow but it would have been lovely without snow too. Excellent bus service, some people have mentioned that bus travel was not offered for winter activities but if you ask the bus driver they will let you on free. The Nordic Fun cross country skiing course at Faistenau (booked online) was excellent. The equipment could be hired from Sport Auer in Faistenau, where the staff were also really friendly and helpful and you get a special hire price if you are going with Nordic Fun. On the round Fuschl lake walk the inn/restaurant Jausen Berger (near the top of the lake, on the path) was small with traditional food and a good alternative to the Schloss and Fish smokery places, both of which were temporarily shut when we were there. Bad Ischl: walk along the river and then up the Katrin Cable Car was great and watching a stunning view over mountains whilst having a drink at either of the places at the top and an afternoon in the Eurotherm salt spa pools was very relaxing. The hotel is lovely, excellent food and friendly staff and guests.

Walking the 11k around Lake Fuschl with occasional snow flurries was delightful.

The Burglweg walk from Strobl to St.Wolfgang in warm sunshine was also a highlight.

The super efficient 150 bus service means that  many more  places are accessible but we also enjoyed the local walks starting in the village.

Cafe Jakob is a good amenity to have in the village with its friendly and efficient staff.

The Musik at Mittag konzert in Salzburg Cathedral was very pleasant and chilled for a 30 minute cultural interlude and does not break the bank at 6 euro per person

1st time booking with Inntravel and very pleased with the service they provided. Hotel Seerose was excellent, the transfer from the airport was only 30 min. The food was unbelievable, the room and facilities were more 5 star than 4. Would definitely recommend Inntravel and Hotel Seerose.

Our first trip with Inntravel (we usually do our own thing) and it definitely lived up to expectations, if not exceeded. Many other couples we met were seasoned customers and singing your praises, so clearly you've got a great formula and we will certainly be checking out the website for future inspiration. Our highlight was the cable car up from St Gilgen - pricey but spectacular views on a clear day and lovely panoramic walk at the top (take poles/grippy boot add ons if you've got them to make life easier!). The walk from Strobl to St Wolfgang was wonderful too and a handy bus can save you the return leg back to Strobl past cake and coffee in town. Go with a healthy appetite - the breakfasts and dinners are a fab opportunity to sample a wide range of traditional Austrian fare and the Gruner Veltliner suited us very nicely!

Personal highlights include the location of the hotel, with lovely walks available in the immediate area. An excellent bus service to pretty nearby villages and Salzburg, and the swimming pool at the hotel.

Highlights:

Finally walking the Falkenstein trail from St Wolfgang to St Gilgen (often closed due to depth of snow).

Finding the Gnome Trail still fully populated!

After 3 years, including all the troubles of Covid, the hotel and all its staff were as welcoming as ever, with the same high standards of comfort, service and cuisine.  This is a family enterprise in the very best sense.

Tips/recommendations:

One-week bus tickets (see above).

On one of the days, we thought the weather was too bad to go walking, so stayed indoors the whole day.  The facilities (pool, spa etc) and comfortable room meant this was still an enjoyable day.

At breakfast (or from the bedroom window), look out for the waterbirds: grebes, tufted ducks and coots are usually in view at some point.

Take clip-on "grips" for shoes/walking boots - these can be invaluable if surfaces are slippery.  Walking poles (plus "baskets" for use in snow) can also make one feel more secure.

An excellent winter walking holiday destination with a combination of walks from the hotel or by using reliable and comfortable local bus service. The family owned hotel was welcoming and helpful and the evening meals were outstanding. We hope to return.

This was our first experience of travelling with Inntravel and we have been so impresssed. Customer service has been excellent throughout and the booking process was extremely smooth. Excellent information pack provided. Hotel Seerose is a wonderful hotel  - spotlessly clean, well equipped, delightful pool and spa, great food. However, it is the wonderful staff who really create the atmosphere of the place. Nothing was too much trouble and they were always ready to help. Fuschl am See was quiet at this time of year which we really enjoyed. There are numerous walks directly from the hotel. Public transport is really easy to use and a day trip to Salzburg is definitely worth it. We recommend the guided snow shoe walk in particular - great fun and beautiful scenery with really expert guides who made the whole thing easy for beginners. A perfect place to spend a week with plenty still to do.

We travelled to Fuschl am See 21st to 28th Jan 2023 and stayed at the Hotel Seerose. We had a lovely room (Tower Room) and an amazing view over thhe lake. Highlights were the circular walk around Fuschlsee although be warned that none of the "pit stops" shown on the map are open in the winter, (the Hotel Schloss Fuschl which we had heard so much about, is currently a building site, although no-one informed us of this when we told reception that we were going on the walk), so go prepared to be out for 4 hours non-stop. The local buses were great if a little expensive. We took bus trips to Salzburg which was lovely and Bad Ischl which was interesting but we think overrated and other than some shops and a few cafes everything else was closed, including the Kaiser Villa and Gardens which we had been looking forward to visiting. We visited St Gilgen and took the cable car up to Zwolferhorn and did the panoramic walk which was awsome, Also had a lovely walk from Faistenau one day after first trying out a horse-drawn sleigh ride. 

Overall we enjoyed our trip despite some major reservations about the lack of facilities and were lucky that there had been heavy snow just prior to our arrival, it just wouldnt have been the same without the snow on the ground, but this was apparently the first snow of the winter and I checked the weather after we returned home and it was raining, so if booking a snowy break again I would look for somewhere at a higher altitude to guarantee snow. Overall I would describe the Fuschl area as beautiful but "closed". Apart from Salzburg, the rest of the area is clearly geared up for the summer and there is little open in the winter. In the villages that we visited during the day, including Fuschl, we only ever found one cafe open, which made each visit quite stressful as they were often difficult to find typically being away from the obvious tourist spots near lakes etc and presumably only really open for the local residents.

The hotel Seerose was very nice and the food was generally very good, (5 courses served with a smile), apart from Saturday which is apparently the chefs day off and a hot buffet is served which was of much lower quality. The hotel is family run, which is good in one sense, lovely people good local knowledge, but the downside is they don't have the resources to provide the facilities needed to compensate for nothing else being open in the village. The hotel was advertised as having a lakeside terrace which was closed and a lounge with an open fire, which was actually just a part of the reception lobby, the fire was never lit and the staff turned the lights off at 9:45pm most evenings when the reception closed. Similarly the bar was really just for serving drinks to the restaurant and when we returned from our post dinner walks was closed by 9:30pm so no possibility of a night cap. There was effectively nowhere to sit and read in the afternoon once we returned from our daytime activities and nothing to do in the evening once dinner was over. The indoor pool and saunas were very nice, but not something we wanted to use every day. If the Hotel Seerose wishes to continue receiving winter guests it really needs to up it's game and provide all of the faciliities needed in the village that are otherwise closed. So an all day cafe, a proper residents lounge serving drinks and snacks throughout the day and a proper welcoming bar at night open to 11pm.The Jacob bar/restaurant near the church in Fuschl saved our sanity, it was only open Mon, Thurs & Fri to 10:00pm, but provided a welcome oasis of hospitality and a convivial atmosphere on those 3 nights.

I loved our holiday in the winter wonderland that is Fuschl and the area. We were very lucky in that it snowed a lot prior to our arrival, and the snow stayed all week as there was no wind. It was very special. The hotel was superb, with great staff and a lovely family running it. I loved the facilities and used the sauna daily, after long, winter walks. I loved our special room, (205) which seemed to hang over the lake. Spectacular. This is a dog-friendly hotel, and I loved one of the dogs in particular that was staying. It was a Landseer, which is a mainly white, European Newfoundland, and massive. Even my husband stroked this dog, and he isn't a dog-lover! I would recommend getting microspikes for walking in the winter. I used them over my walking boots all the time, but my husband did not have any and struggled at times. He is a very good walker, and I have bad knees. Compact snow is as bad as ice! I also use 2 poles. 

I would advise travellers to watch the weather forecast carefully and plan the day accordingly. We chose the one day when the sun was due to break through the clouds to take the bus to St Gilgen and the gondola to Wolferhorn. The lift is expensive but it was worth every penny to walk above the clouds in the sunshine and the snow. It was a glorious day on the mountain top whilst still murky down below! We enjoyed exploring the area all around Fuschl and combining walks. The map showing the walking routes around Fuschl was very helpful. All the walks around Fuschl were beautiful in the snow. They were clearly marked on the footpaths. We enjoyed walking route 20 and then 27 to Ellmau and then picked up the 20 to bring us back to the path up to the golf course and into Fuschl village. There is a little snow tube and toboggan run open Wed-Sunday at the golf club, which is a bit of fun - only 3 euro all day. We also enjoyed the little walk 22 'Bambichl'. And walking along Fuschl am See north shore 30 combined with 11.

We enjoyed our relaxing holiday at the Hotel Seerose. The family and all who worked at the hotel were very welcoming. Our  room was comfortable, warm and the food was superb. We swam in the pool and enjoyed the warmth of the sauna. The snow arrived with us and the surrounding scenery was very picturesque. The activities were limited to walking but there was a good variety of local ones of varying lengths. We used the bus to go to Salzburg and neighbouring villages. Travel to and from the hotel was very easy with a short transfer journey provided by the owner. All in all, an excellent break and we hope to return one day.

Highlights: Getting up a couple of local hills, walking in the snow back from Faistenau, not cooking meals, different approach by the Austrians to hill walking compared with Scotland(!), meeting and chatting to people in the hotel and on the hill.

All of the staff at Hotel Seerose were really lovely. Very easy bus links from the village to Salzburg and Bad Ischl (and points between). And Fuschl is just a 25' drive from the airport, so transfers were pleasantly short. The lake view room was well worth the upgrade!

The location and quality of the hotel was outstanding. Hikes from there included a circuit of the Fuschlsee itself (passing the stunning Red Bull HQ), climbing to the ruined castle and Mount Frauenkopf, and over to St Gilgen via Mozartblick (breath-taking viewpoint) - then catching the boat across the Wolfgangsee to St Wolfgang. Also caught the 150 bus to Salzburg one day, and the opposite way to Bad Ischl another - don't miss the Kaiservilla and Katrin cable car! Faistenau is nearby with another lovely walk around the Hintersee.

The hotel staff couldn't do enough for us. They went above and beyond to meet my dietary requirements providing delicious food that enabled me to stay safe and healthy - I cannot thank them enough. All the staff were so helpful and so very kind. They also provided a fridge in our room to store medical supplies. The views of the lake are beautiful. The swimming pool was a real added bonus.

Delightful hotel run by charming family. Strudel to die for!

Excellent walking instructions supplied by Inntravel.

Would be a lovely summer break.

One highlight of many was being met off the plane by 'Krampus' and their subsequent parade through the village. The Hotel Seerose is a particularly good choice and the bus service makes it easy to travel anywhere along the route between Salzburg and Bad Ischl. In some ways we actually preferred Salzburg to Vienna. We loved the Salzburg + the 3 Wolfgangsee Xmas markets and being able to go from St Gilgen to St Wolfgang by ferry. Good walks in the area.