The 10 BEST Free Walking Tours in Upper Austria
Tucked in the western part of Austria, it is known as the beautiful Upper Austria. Posing as one of the largest states in Austria in population and area, Upper Austria boasts of enchanting sceneries and enchanting cultural factions. Thus, one of the best ways of discovering this area is when you take walking tours. This guide will help to practically guide you physically around some of the most scenic short walks in the province of Upper Austria.
1. Danube Trail
However, the most important attraction in Upper Austria is the Danube Trail that one should not miss to visit. They include a trail that is followed along the line of the Danube River and this gives an experience of the beautiful water body and the surrounding landscapes. This trail can be considered easy-intermediate and is easy to follow as it is well set with markers. There is an easier way to do this by just selecting part of the 320-kilometer trail that will let you pass through some quaint towns, amazing castles, and vineyards among others.
Key Highlights:
- It sounds like you should try out the historic town of Grein and the castle that stands in its territory.
- Pay a visit to Linz – nowadays it is an important center occupied with the development of arts and culture.
- Marvel at the stunning views from the pilgrimage church of Maria Taferl.
- Visit the scenic region of the Wachau and take a special look at the lands of fantastic vine terraces.
2. Traunsee Lake Circular Trail
Located in the picturesque Salzkammergut area, the beautiful and picturesque Traunsee Lake deserves a special attention. With the help of the Traunsee Lake Circular Trail, you will be able to get around the lake and view its airy scenery. Trail A is a little more than a moderate one with a length of 28 kilometers; here, also, you will contacts with beautiful views of the lakeside villages, forests, and views. They can even be seen, on the sunny day, the snowy tops of the Dachstein mountains.
Key Highlights:
- To get to Schloss Ort, one has to take a boat trip to the island where the castle stands majestically.
- Go to one of the restaurants with local dishes located on the shore of the lake.
- Location interesting for the visitor is the Gmunden Ceramics Museum that is given to telling the story of the pottery-making history of this area.
- Marvel at the breathtaking views from the top of the Feuerkogel mountain.
3. Hallstatt Historic Village Walk
Visiting Upper Austria would be incomplete without having a feel of the beautiful and Picture perched village of Hallstatt. This world Heritage site has still natural environment and quick history background that make it alluring tourism spots. Therefore, the way presented in the film called Hallstatt Historic Village Walk will help you to admire the views of the interiors, strolling along the narrow streets and backyards of Hallstatt as well as appreciate the architecture of the Alpine houses. Do not leave the camera at home as there are many photo moments throughout the trip!
Key Highlights:
- It is also advisable to take a tour of the Hallstatt Museum in order to understand the historical background of the region.
- There is also the option to take a boat trip on Lake Hallstatt in a different way than the walking tours.
- Visit the Dachstein Ice cave that is situated near the town of Hallstatt.
- It could be visiting one of the local bakeries to taste the traditional Austrian pastries.
4. Kalkalpen National Park Hiking Trails
If you are interested in more intense trekking, then it is worth to visit Kalkalpen National Park. It is the largest continuous forest area in Austria and is endowed with numerous square kilometers of virgin land that provide hiker’s tracks with different difficulties. For the leisure walker, there are nature walks and for the spirited mountain climber, there are steep ascending terrains all in the Kalkalpen National Park. Experience the serenity as you go through this untouched heaven on earth.
Key Highlights:
- Explore the snowcapped Hintergebirge mountain range.
- Witness such species of animals as the lynx, the golden eagles, and the capercaillie.
- Check out the Wurbauerkogel Adventure Mountain where every paved slope area this attractions of special programs which would provide enthralling outdoor activities.
- It is recommended you take a tour to Limestone Cave which is near the entrance of the national park.
5. Bohemian Forest Nature Park
It is one that can be recommended to those who seek exploring off the typical tourist track and visiting the Bohemian Forest Nature Park. Located at the border to the Czech Republic, this nature park is impressive both in terms of the landscape and fauna and flora. The park therefore comprises well-spaced tracks which enable a rome through the natural wonders of the park at a pace that one desires. Witness the area that has remained unperturbed in the way the Bohemian forest has captured on camera.
Key Highlights:
- Install a curving observation platform on Hochficht mountain so that people can have a majestic glance at the beauty of the world.
- The topic of the work is the historical system of navigation named Schwarzenberg Canal.
- It is interesting to see different types of animals, such as European bisons or white-tailed eagles.
- Well, here is the Lipno Lake which is especially suited for water activities and leisure.
Those who like spending time out in the nature, lovers of active tourism or those people, who appreciate the beautiful views of the countryside, will be interested in Upper Austria walking tours. Put on your hiking shoes, grab your camera and prepare to witness the most beautiful scenery of Upper Austria’s fantastic landscapes!
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