When it comes to hiking holidays or mountain holidays – Austria has a wealth of options for holiday makers wanting to enjoy the great outdoors. The beautiful countryside of the Austrian mountains, rivers, lakes and forests, offers an unrivaled choice of different locations and, because Austria is a country designed for hiking holidays, its numerous easy to follow trails through picturesque landscapes guarantee both fun and adventure. So what are you waiting for? Whether you are a beginner or seasoned explorer, pack your bags, get into your walking shoes and discover that the Austrian mountains offer unforgettable hiking holidays every step of the way. There are too many Hiking Trails within Austria to list in this guide, i would suggest that you decide on a region or city and then browse the inforrmation proviided relating to Hiking. There is further information available on our walking section.
Remember that just like any other sport, hiking requires a certain amount of physical fitness. Plan your holiday according to your personal condition, always allowing yourself a day of rest in-between.
Plan your mountain or hiking tour in the Austrian Alps by using tour descriptions and maps. Always leave details of your route, as well as your approximate time of return with your friends, the hotelier or the hut host.
Before going out, check the weather conditions and avoid high alpine tours if bad weather is expected. Keep in mind that mountain weather can change rapidly.
Basic equipment for hikers and climbers when mountaineering in Austria A comfortable backpack with cushioned straps and belt, well-fitting, ankle-high boots with slip-proof rubber soles, walking trousers, thick socks, a change of shirt, fleece jacket, waterproofs, hat, sunglasses, suntan lotion, pocket knife, perhaps a head lamp, basic first-aid package, snack, drink (preferably tea or water), and whistle. Don’t rely on a mobile phone to get you out of trouble, there may not be a signal.
On the tour - safety advice Pace yourself. Walking at too fast a pace at the beginning of a trip can lead to early exhaustion. Stay on the marked hiking trails, and if it becomes too difficult or too demanding, then break off the hiking tour. Keep in mind that you will also need energy reserves for the return journey. Turn back if unsure – it is irresponsible to put one’s self and others in dangerous situations. Treat nature with consideration. Avoid unnecessary noise and do not leave garbage behind.
In case of storm or lightning hazards - avoid all open areas - avoid steel wire fencing and metal structures, - place metal objects (ski poles, picks, etc.) at some distance away from you - avoid swimming! - do not seek shelter under trees or cliffs, - huddle down in squat position, - try to reach the next hut.
The time between lightning and thunder can be measured to determine how far away the storm is (1 second = 330 meters).
In case of accident /injury Keep calm and rational. If necessary, and possible, move the injured away from any danger and administer first aid. Check airway, breathing and consciousness. Never leave an injured person alone. Use the alpine emergency signal to bring attention to your situation.
Alpine Emergency Signal In 10-second intervals over a minute, make an acoustic or optical signal (call out, wave, whistle). Take a one minute break, and then repeat the emergency signal. This is the accepted signal for all Austria mountaineering.
