Austria is by far the most popular destination for winter sport in Austria. More than 50% of European winter sport tourists choose Austria as their preferred holiday destination, followed by France (12%), Italy (9%) and Switzerland (7%). Austrian destinations are also topping the tables of the recent BAK study of January 2010. BAK Basel Economics, a renowned Swiss economic research institute, publishes a yearly list of the most successful Alpine winter sport destinations. This year, the seven best ranked destinations are in Austria. Visitors in Austria are not only keen on skiing and snowboarding, they also like the choice of “slow” versions of winter sport. The Gastein Valley, one of Austria’s most popular winter destinations, is offering a very special treat for those who want to experience the true Alpine snow feeling:

Snowshoeing in the biggest nature sanctuary in the entire Alpine world

Far removed from the busy slopes, the silent side valleys and forests of the Gastein Valley invite you to set out on an array of captivating snowshoe expeditions. Led by a ranger with expert local knowledge, you will quickly be able to get away from the well-trodden trails and explore the pristine natural landscapes of the Hohe Tauern National Park, the biggest nature sanctuary in the entire Alpine world.

Two modern, lightweight snowshoes on your feet, a pole in each hand, a rucksack with a thermos of hot tea and some nutritious snacks, accompanied by a small group of your fellow nature lovers: this is what a guided snowshoe hike is all about. These easy tours last around 2 hours and require no prior experience or particular physical conditioning.

Rediscovering the meaning of “slow”

These memorable nature hikes lead you into the tranquility of our wintery countryside, but they also afford you the opportunity to pick up lots of fascinating insights into the National Park itself, including its history and its flora & fauna.  A local guide, who knows the area like the back of his hand, will custom-tailor the tempo and terrain to the needs of participants.  Snowshoe tours are offered to groups of three or more registered participants, while the maximum group size is 15.

Snowshoeing does not demand any special techniques: it is important to have good-quality winter equipment and potentially a change of clothing.  Children and youths also enjoy this traditional way of getting about.  The large surface area of the snowshoes prevents you from sinking into the snow, making it relatively easy to cross even deep snow.

General Info about Snowshoeing

Guided snowshoe expeditions are offered every Tuesday during ski season at 1 p.m.  Assembly point is the Angertal Ski Center and registration is required: please call the Bad Hofgastein spa offices at Tel. +43 (0)6432- 3393-260.

Fee: 5 Euro (with Guest Card) with equipment included.