Coolcation in Austria: Summer in the Mountains in Grossarltal

Sometimes, it’s the little moments that make a summer in the mountains truly special. In Grossarltal, a Coolcation means spending your days outdoors, making the most of the higher elevations and discovering new favourite places along the way. Here are our five ideas for refreshing summer days:

1. When the Day Starts Early Up in the Mountains

The early morning hours are among the most beautiful moments of a summer day in Grossarltal. The air is crisp, the light is still soft and the trails offer a peaceful start to the day. Hiking trails lead directly from DAS EDELWEISS into the Valley of Mountain Huts. Those who prefer to skip some of the ascent can take the Panoramabahn or Kieserlbahn and start their hike higher up. A sunrise hike is particularly memorable, as the first light slowly moves across the surrounding peaks. Daniel Hettegger grew up in Grossarltal and, as a member of the family and a hiking guide, knows not only the well-known routes but also special places away from the most popular trails.

„For me, summer in Grossarltal is at its most beautiful early in the morning, high up in the mountains. The air is crisp, the trails are quiet and you experience nature in a completely different way. And the best part: after the hike, you can look forward to a refreshing dip in the water.“

 

DANIEL HETTEGGER, FAMILY MEMBER & HIKING GUIDE

Hike In & Out at Your Hiking Hotel DAS EDELWEISS

2. Up to the Mountain Huts

A Coolcation can carry the scent of fresh grass, wood and Kaiserschmarrn. With more than 40 staffed mountain huts, Grossarltal is a special destination for those who enjoy combining hiking with good food. Not every day has to be about conquering a summit. Often, a leisurely hike, a bench in front of a mountain hut, regional specialities and a little time are all you need. Perhaps that is one of the most beautiful things about a summer holiday in the Austrian mountains: how naturally activity and enjoyment go hand in hand. Once you reach a mountain hut, there is no need to rush off again. The journey is part of the experience – and stopping for a well-earned break is too.

3. A Fresh Breeze Instead of Standing Still

Sometimes, refreshment comes in the form of a cool breeze as you ride. Grossarltal is also perfect for exploring on two wheels – at a leisurely pace by e-bike or more actively on the trails. Routes lead through the mountain landscape and up to the mountain huts, while more ambitious riders can choose from more challenging trails. Those who prefer to leave their own bike at home can rent bikes and e-bikes directly at DAS EDELWEISS. Guided tours are another great way to discover new routes and special favourite spots on two wheels. A fresh breeze, mountain views and the freedom to set your own pace – the Grossarltal mountain summer shows its refreshing side on two wheels, too.

Biking Experiences at Your Bike Hotel DAS EDELWEISS

4. Take a Dip with Mountain Views

After the mountains, it’s time for the water. At DAS EDELWEISS, active swimmers can enjoy a 25-metre indoor and outdoor sports pool, among other highlights. Families will find additional pools and water worlds in the Family Mountain Spa. Or find your favourite spot in the Rooftop Garden, take in the views of the Grossarltal mountains and enjoy a refreshing drink from the EDELWEISS Poolbar. Thanks to the pool service, you can even have your drink served directly to your lounger. This is the relaxed side of a Coolcation: when, for a moment, there is nothing on the agenda and the mountain views provide all the variety you need. The 7,000 m² EDELWEISS Mountain Spa complements active adventures in the region with plenty of space for relaxation, warmth and time to unwind.

Wellness Experience at Your 5-Star Wellness Hotel DAS EDELWEISS

5. When the Summer Evening Lingers a Little Longer

After a day spent between mountains, mountain huts, fresh breezes and water, things slowly begin to quieten down in Grossarltal. The sun sits lower in the sky, the temperatures become milder and perhaps one of the most beautiful moments of a Coolcation in Austria begins on the terraces and balconies. There is nothing left to discover or achieve. Just time for an aperitif, a relaxed dinner or simply taking in the surrounding mountain scenery. These long summer evenings are an essential part of a holiday in the mountains: sitting outside, enjoying the crisp mountain air and letting the day come to a leisurely close. And perhaps already wondering where tomorrow might take you.

After a day spent in the mountains, at mountain huts, on two wheels and by the water, Grossarltal slowly begins to quieten down. The sun sits lower in the sky, the temperatures become milder, and perhaps one of the most beautiful moments of a Coolcation in Austria begins on the terraces and balconies. There is nothing left to discover or achieve. It’s simply time for an aperitif, a relaxed dinner or to take in the surrounding mountain scenery. These long summer evenings are an essential part of a holiday in the mountains: sitting outside, enjoying the crisp mountain air and letting the day come to a leisurely close. And perhaps already thinking about where tomorrow might take you.

A Coolcation in Austria doesn’t require a long journey. Especially for guests from Austria, Germany and neighbouring countries, Salzburger Land combines an Alpine holiday experience with easy accessibility. DAS EDELWEISS is located in Grossarltal, around 70 kilometres south of the city of Salzburg, and can be reached both by car and public transport. Once you arrive, the mountains, outdoor activities and relaxing moments are all within easy reach. It’s an escape that feels far removed from everyday life – without having to travel far.

Book Your Summer Holiday at DAS EDELWEISS

Where can you go on a Coolcation in Austria?

A Coolcation is possible in many of Austria’s Alpine regions. Grossarltal in Salzburger Land offers particularly varied possibilities, with around 400 kilometres of hiking trails, more than 40 staffed mountain huts, cable cars taking you up to around 1,950 metres above sea level, and plenty of opportunities to combine active time in the mountains with water and relaxation.

Do you have to go high into the mountains for a Coolcation in Austria?

No. Alpine valleys such as Grossarltal already combine mountain scenery, forests and water with plenty of ways to enjoy varied summer days. Those who want to venture higher can easily reach higher elevations by cable car. In Grossarltal, the Panoramabahn and Kieserlbahn take you up to around 1,850 and 1,950 metres above sea level respectively.

What is the difference between a Coolcation and Sommerfrische?

Coolcation is a modern travel term for spending a summer holiday in destinations that offer a refreshing escape from the heat. The Austrian tradition of Sommerfrische has followed a similar idea for generations: spending the warmer months surrounded by nature, by lakes or in the mountains. A Coolcation in Austria can therefore be seen as a modern interpretation of the traditional Sommerfrische.

What should you pack for a Coolcation in the mountains?

Even in summer, dressing in layers is recommended in the Alps. Along with lightweight summer clothing, it’s a good idea to pack sturdy footwear, sun and rain protection, as well as an extra warm layer for cooler mornings and evenings.

If you’re planning to hike or bike, your equipment should be suited to your chosen route and the current weather conditions. A water bottle, sun protection and a small backpack are also useful to have with you. This way, you can stay flexible throughout the day, even if conditions in the mountains change.

Can you enjoy a Coolcation even in changeable weather?

Yes. The combination of mountain experiences and everything the hotel has to offer provides plenty of flexibility. Depending on the weather, guests can go hiking or biking, visit a mountain hut, take the cable cars or spend time by the pool and in the Mountain Spa. This means there’s no need to plan a summer day in Grossarltal too far in advance.