5 activities to enjoy around Viehhofen in the summer

You'll find our Austrian property in the Glemmtal Valley, nestled in the picturesque village of Viehhofen. It’s a truly beautiful location, perfect for relaxing and enjoying some mountain views. But with so much to do and explore within an hour of Viehhofen, we’d thoroughly recommend getting out and discovering everything the local area has to offer.

Less than 15 minutes away by car, you’ll find Saalbach-Hinterglemm, with its dramatic slopes and snowbanks famous for skiing. However, don’t be fooled into thinking this is just a winter holiday. Saalbach-Hinterglemm and the areas surrounding it don’t close down during the summer… in fact, there’s so many things for the whole family to enjoy when the snow melts, you might find yourself spoilt for choice!

To help you make a decision, we’ve put together a list of activities that really make the most of Austria during the sunshine months. 

Enjoy the scenery while hiking

There are countless hiking trails in Saalbach-Hinterglemm, stretching out for more than 400km. They’ll take you past mountain lakes, through lush forests and rolling hills, finishing with some breathtaking vistas from the summit. With the Pinzgau Grass Mountains on one side and the Kitzbuhel Alps on the other, the views are surely worth the climb! Even better, four cable cars run throughout the summer for an easy ascent into the mountains – perfect if you’re looking for a head start.

While there are many trails that everyone can follow through the mountains, there are also several guided hikes that you can join between May and October. During these expeditions, which run up to 10 times a week, certified guides will lead the way and teach you about the landscape, animals and people of the Alps.

Alternatively, if you fancy braving it alone you can follow the educational hiking trail, which starts about 10 minutes from Lindlingalm. This path is signposted with instructions for the hike and information about the local wildlife and fauna, making it a great starting point for a hiking holiday.

Discover mountain biking

Saalbach-Hinterglemm has been a leading area for mountain biking in Austria for a number of years, with a network of routes that span over 500km. The paths are clearly marked and run all the way through to the neighbouring region of Leogang, which is included in the BIG-5 Bike Challenge. You can even use the modern gondola lifts to carry your bike up the mountain, so all you need to worry about is making your way back down!

The mountain has a range of tricky single trails, as well as shaped freeride routes for every skill level. Whether you’re after a leisurely ride or a hair-raising race to the bottom, you’re sure to find something to suit – even if you’re a complete beginner! There are numerous guided tours and bike camps throughout the summer for those hoping to develop a new skill.

Relax in a thermal spring

Just under an hour from Viehhofen, you’ll stumble across the enchanting Felsentherme Spa. This luxurious complex employs the natural hot springs, which bubble up from the rock enriched with minerals after their 3,000-year journey to the surface.

The Felsentherme Spa is made up of several pools, including a children’s and sports pool. In addition, there’s a spa area with steam baths, sun deck and several saunas, including one with a beautiful panoramic window so you can enjoy the scenery while you relax. But the highlight is certainly the impressive open-air springs, where you can enjoy both a soak in the sunshine and a spectacular view of the Hohe Tauern National Park.

Take a trip on a summer toboggan

There’s always an opportunity to enjoy a toboggan ride in Austria – even in the middle of a heat wave! Jump aboard one of the clever summer toboggans and set off down a specifically designed track.

During your 1.6km ride, you will descend 345 metres and pass safely through 61 curves and 3 super jumps on the way. You can even dictate the speed which you travel using the gear lever, from a fast-paced valley runner to a gentle roll. Either way, make sure you take a moment to appreciate the spectacular scenery as you glide on by. Children between the age of 3 and 7 can ride with an adult, so there’s no need to leave anyone behind!

Visit the local history & ski museum

Should you decide to take a bit of time away from the slopes, or if the weather turns against you, then you can easily while away a few hours in the local history and ski museum. Tucked away in a beautifully traditional building, it’s a fantastic way to experience the history behind Saalbach-Hinterglemm. From the first mountain farmers in 1222, all the way to the arrival of skiers in 1989, the area has a rich and dynamic history which is sure to give you an even greater appreciation of this wonderful part of Austria.

Tour the local distillery

At the foot of Reiterkogel, about 15 minutes’ drive from Viehhofen, you can find the small schnapps distillery of Brennerei Enn. The craftsmen here make over 60 different products, including brandies, spirits, gin and rum. Visitors can enjoy a tour of the production process and tastings of these delicious beverages, overseen by the Enn family themselves.

Of course, there’s plenty more to keep everyone entertained during a summer holiday. From sports to satisfy the most adrenaline-hungry guests, to more tranquil activities such as fishing or a stroll along the herbal path, there’s something for everyone.

Our Austrian property makes a great place to recuperate after day in the mountains. The private apartments are set in the peaceful village of Viehhofen, making them a perfect retreat away from the activity of the slopes.