Salzburg for Adventurers: Outdoor Activities All Year Round

Salzburg – A City of Culture, Nature and Adventure

Baroque alleyways, magnificent palaces, and a rich musical heritage – Salzburg is world-famous for its history. But beyond Mozart and Hohensalzburg Fortress lies a true outdoor paradise. Surrounded by the Alps and close to the Salzburger Land, the region is perfect for anyone looking to get active in nature. Whether it’s summer or winter, here you’ll find exciting leisure activities all year round. This guide introduces you to the best Salzburg activities – from hiking to climbing and action sports – with useful info on providers, prices and locations.

Outdoor Activities in Spring and Summer (March to August)

Hiking: Nature Experiences with Stunning Views

Salzburg's surroundings offer countless hiking trails – from easy family routes to alpine challenges.

• Gaisberg Circular Trail
  Duration: approx. 3–4 hours
  Highlight: Panoramic views over Salzburg
  Starting point: Bus line 151 from the city centre
  Tip: Ideal for sunset hikes
• Bluntautal near Golling
  Length: approx. 5 km
  Feature: Crystal-clear lakes and alpine pastures
  Access: By suburban train to Golling-Abtenau

Other top spots: Kapuzinerberg, Mönchsberg, Nockstein.

Swimming: Cool Off in a Dreamlike Setting

When temperatures rise, several idyllic lakes around Salzburg invite you for a dip:

• Fuschlsee
  Entry: Free of charge
  Activities: Swimming, stand-up paddling, boating
  Tip: Hof beach – family-friendly
• Wallersee
  Travel time: Approx. 25 minutes by train
  Highlight: Pedal boat & SUP rentals available

Climbing: Adrenaline on the Rock Face

Climbing fans can explore many routes in the area:

• Barmsteine Climbing Garden (near Hallein)
  Difficulty levels: 3 to 7+
  Access: 30 minutes by car or bus
• Indoor alternative: Salzburg Boulderbar – perfect for rainy days

Paragliding: Experience Salzburg from Above

• Provider: FlyTandem.at
  Location: Gaisberg
  Cost: from €150 for tandem flight
  Highlight: Views over the Old Town and the Alps

Mountain Biking: Ride Through Nature

• Tauglgries Loop (Tennengau)
  Route: approx. 30 km
  Difficulty: Intermediate
  Bike hire: e.g. Bikepalast Salzburg

Outdoor Activities in Autumn (September to November)

Hiking in Göll and Untersberg Mountains

• Untersberg (via cable car)
  Start: Cable car station in Grödig
  Duration: 2–4 hours depending on route
  Tip: Clear autumn days provide fantastic views
• Hoher Göll via Purtschellerhaus
  Difficulty: Advanced
  Duration: Full-day hike

Cycling Through Colourful Landscapes

• Tauern Cycle Path
  Section: Salzburg – Golling
  Length: approx. 30 km
  Highlight: Golling waterfall and alpine meadows
• Salzach Cycle Path
  Leisurely route along the river – perfect for casual riders

Mushroom Picking in Autumn Forests

• Regions: Gaisberg, Plainberg, Eugendorf
  Important: Use a mushroom guidebook or join a guided tour, e.g. via Waldpädagogik.at
  Main season: Mid-September to late October

Outdoor Activities in Winter (December to February)

Skiing and Snowboarding: Fun on the Slopes Nearby

• Werfenweng Ski Resort
  Travel: Approx. 45 minutes by train and shuttle
  Lift pass: From €42/day
  Feature: Family-friendly with many blue runs
• Snow Space Salzburg (Flachau/Wagrain/St. Johann)
  Access: Part of Ski Amadé network
  Tip: Easily reachable by ski bus from Salzburg

Cross-Country Skiing

• Gaisberg Trail
  Length: 2.5 km – illuminated
  Equipment rental: e.g. Intersport Rent Salzburg
• Hellbrunner Allee (with sufficient snow)
  Length: approx. 6 km
  Atmosphere: Romantic & close to the city

Ice Climbing

• Provider: Salzburg Adventures
  Locations: Gastein Valley or Kolm-Saigurn
  Requirement: Experience or beginner course
  Price: from approx. €120/day

Winter Paragliding

• Tandem Flights with Skis
  Location: Werfenweng
  Highlight: Take off on skis – spectacular!
  Provider: Paragliding Salzburg

Frequently Asked Questions

Which outdoor activities are suitable for families with children?
Hiking in Bluntautal, swimming in Fuschlsee, or easy bike tours along the Salzach are ideal.

Where can I rent sports equipment spontaneously?
Many rental shops in the city, e.g. Intersport or Bikepalast, offer bikes, skis or SUPs.

Are there guided tours for beginners?
Yes – whether hiking tours, climbing courses or paragliding. Providers like Salzburg Adventures have options for all levels.

What can I do in bad weather?
Indoor climbing, museums, Amadé thermal spa or bouldering – perfect backup options.

Salzburg – Your Year-Round Outdoor Adventure

Salzburg is so much more than Mozart and concert halls. The blend of urban culture and nearby nature makes it the perfect destination for adventurers. Whether you're into hiking, paragliding, or hitting the slopes – there are plenty of activities in Salzburg for every taste and season.

Book your stay now!

Stay at a&o Hostel Salzburg Hauptbahnhof – centrally located, ideal base for exploring the city and Salzburger Land.

Fancy a side trip? Check out our Vienna insider tips for the perfect day trip to Austria's capital!

Got hooked?

Then book your trip with a&o to Salzburg!