8 Days & 7 Nights

4.8

Walking the Salzburg Lakes

Hike Austria's Salzburg Lakes, made famous by the 'Sound of Music'
Enjoy views of crystal-clear lakes and wild rivers surrounded by dramatic mountains
Discover the picture-book village of Hallstatt and the historical town of Bad Ischl
Walk through flower-filled meadows, along lake side paths and on well-built mountain trails
Indulge in typical Austrian delicacies like delicious Schnitzel and rich Apfelstrudel

Austria’s Salzburg Lakes region (Salzkammergut) boasts over 70 beautiful lakes, impressive Alpine backdrops and traditional towns and villages. Enjoy easy to moderate walks along the banks of the Fuschl, Wolfgang and Hallstätter Lakes. Discover world famous towns like the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hallstatt, a lake-side village brimming with pastel-coloured buildings, and St. Gilgen, a charming town on Wolfgangsee with a Mozart connection. Short hikes mean you can spend your afternoons soaking up the relaxed atmosphere while exploring the towns by way of their cafés, beer gardens and restaurants, sampling Austrian classics like Kasnocken (dumplings with cheese and onions) and of course, the ubiquitous apple strudel. This itinerary is the perfect balance of activity, discovery and relaxation, the best way to take in this beguiling region.

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Itinerary

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Day 1 Arrive in St. Gilgen

St. Gilgen is an idyllic lakeside village easily reached from Salzburg by bus (35 mins). Why not swim in Fuschlsee’s emerald waters? It's especially enjoyable since motor boats are not allowed, giving this lake and the town a lovely relaxed atmosphere. Settle into your comfortable hotel and prepare for your first walking day.

During high season, you may have to spend the first two nights either in Fuschl or St. Gilgen due to minimum stays. You will reach the start of the hike and get back to the hotel with public transport. All information will be provided in your documentation.

Overnight St. Gilgen

Accommodations

A sample of our typical carefully chosen accommodation in this location. Where you stay will vary depending on availability, but will be a similar standard.

Hotel Kendler | Hotel

Hotel Kendler is located right in the center of St. Gilgen, just a short walk from the lake and the famous Mozartplatz. Guests can enjoy a blend of traditional Austrian hospitality and modern comforts in its cozy rooms. Its restaurant serves regional specialties, making it a convenient choice for both relaxation and local cuisine.

Hotel Gasthof zur Post | Hotel

Gasthof zur Post sits in the heart of the village and is known for its historic building that has welcomed travelers for centuries. The inn specializes in authentic Austrian dishes prepared with local ingredients, offering a genuine taste of the Salzkammergut. It's located just a stone’s throw away from the crystal clear waters of Lake Wolfgang.

Hotel Billroth | Hotel

Hotel Billroth enjoys a stunning location directly on the shores of Lake Wolfgang, surrounded by breathtaking mountain scenery. The restaurant focuses on refined regional and international cuisine, often paired with panoramic views from the terrace. Relax on the private bathing jetty or sun on the loungers right by the lake for the ultimate lakeside experience.

Day 2 Bus to Fuschl & Walk to St. Gilgen 5 miles / 8 km

Your hiking adventure begins with a leisurely walk in the direction of Wolfgangsee, through the Ellmautal valley and onto the Mozartblick viewpoint (824m). Enjoy a break here and take in the outstanding views of Lake Wolfgang and the Schafberg; a towering peak at 1,783m. Descend to St Gilgen, a pretty town which embraces its connections to Mozart, being his mother's hometown. Choose from one of the local restaurants for a hearty evening meal of local specialities and refreshing Austrian beer.

Ascent/Descent: 190m/320m

During high season, you may have to spend the first two nights either in Fuschl or St. Gilgen due to minimum stays. With Public transport you will reach the start of the hike and get back to the hotel. All information will be provided in your documentation.

Overnight St. Gilgen

Accommodations

A sample of our typical carefully chosen accommodation in this location. Where you stay will vary depending on availability, but will be a similar standard.

Hotel Kendler | Hotel

Hotel Gasthof zur Post | Hotel

Hotel Billroth | Hotel

Day 3 Walk to St. Wolfgang, bus/ferry to Strobl 6 miles / 10 km

Leaving St. Gilgen’s traditional buildings behind, today’s route takes you along the shore of the glistening waters of Lake Wolfgang. Ascend to Faulkenstein, where you will find the 14th century pilgrim church dedicated to St. Wolfgang himself. From here you can also enjoy impressive views over the lake and surrounding mountains. Continue on this local pilgrimage route, passing information boards telling the story of the local saint. Descend into the town of St. Wolfgang and wander the pretty streets before taking the bus or ferry to delightful Strobl for your overnight.

Ascent/Descent: 310m/290m

During high season due to availability you may be accomodated in Bad Ischl. With Public transport you will reach the start of the hike and get back to the hotel. All information will be provided in your documentation.

Overnight Strobl

Accommodations

A sample of our typical carefully chosen accommodation in this location. Where you stay will vary depending on availability, but will be a similar standard.

Hotel Strobler Hof | Hotel

The Strobler Hof was founded in 1774 and combines alpine charm with modern comfort. Guests can savor Austrian specialties in the stylish restaurant or relax in the traditional wine cellar. A highlight is the inviting wellness area with sauna and pool, creating a haven of relaxation. Surrounded by a large park, the hotel has its own jetty and sunbathing area, perfect for a refreshing dip after a morning of hiking.

Hotel Gasthof Kirchenwirt | Hotel

This family-run Kirchenwirt welcomes guests with warm hospitality in a traditional inn setting close to the village square. Its restaurant is renowned for hearty Austrian dishes prepared with regional ingredients, served in a rustic atmosphere. Experience pure relaxation in the exclusive wellness area with infinity pool, sauna, and steam bath – and enjoy the unique view of Lake Wolfgang from the serene relaxation lounge.

Hotel Weisser Hirsch | Hotel

Situated directly on the shores of Lake Wolfgang, Seeböckenhotel Zum Weissen Hirschen offers guests a front-row seat to the stunning natural beauty of Strobl. With elegant rooms and a private lakeside garden, it’s the perfect place to unwind and enjoy the serene atmosphere. The hotel’s restaurant serves fine regional cuisine, complemented by romantic lakeside dining.

Day 4 Walk to Schwarzensee 10 miles / 16 km

Enjoy a leisurely continental breakfast of locally made cheese, hams, fresh crusty bread, boiled eggs and coffee before setting off on the Bürgl Panorama Trail from Strobl to the serene Schwarzensee. Ascend on wooden steps and after a steep but short climb, the idyllic lake beckons for a refreshing swim. Walk around the lake then continue on the trail down to St. Wolfgang, where you can enjoy a drink in one of the lovely lake-side beer gardens before returning to Stobl by bus or scenic ferry.

Ascent/Descent: 375m/375m

Overnight Strobl

Accommodations

A sample of our typical carefully chosen accommodation in this location. Where you stay will vary depending on availability, but will be a similar standard.

Hotel Strobler Hof | Hotel

Hotel Gasthof Kirchenwirt | Hotel

Hotel Weisser Hirsch | Hotel

Day 5 Walk to Bad Ischl 9 miles / 15 km

Walk along the banks of the Ache and Ischl rivers to reach the imperial town of Bad Ischl. En route you’ll find the small and tranquil Nussensee lake, a beloved destination of Empress Elisabeth (known endearingly as Sisi) and Emperor Franz Josef I. Continue on a peaceful forest path which was built in Sisi’s memory before finally reaching Bad Ischl. A lovely spa town which was the preferred summer getaway of the upper echelons of the Austrian Empire. Spend the afternoon exploring this historical town. Why not visit the spectacular Kaiser Villa? The former residence of the Habsburgs in the 1800’s, Franz Josef once described it as 'heaven on Earth'.

Ascent/Descent: 200m/295m

During high season due to availability you may be accomodated in Bad Goisern. With Public transport you will reach the start of the hike and get back to the hotel. All information will be provided in your documentation.

Overnight Bad Ischl

Accommodations

A sample of our typical carefully chosen accommodation in this location. Where you stay will vary depending on availability, but will be a similar standard.

Hotel Goldenes Schiff | Hotel

Located right on the banks of the Traun River, Hotel Goldenes Schiff combines modern design with the charm of Bad Ischl’s historic center just steps away. Guests can indulge in regional and international cuisine at the elegant restaurant while enjoying riverside views. The hotel also offers a stylish wellness area, perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring the Salzkammergut.

Hotel Goldener Ochs | Hotel

The Goldener Ochs hotel has been welcoming guests to this imperial town since 1791, including famous personalities such as the composer Franz Lehár. Its restaurant is renowned for classic Austrian dishes and local specialties, paired with fine wines in a warm and inviting atmosphere. The wellness area with pool, sauna, and relaxation rooms makes it an ideal retreat for body and soul.

Villa Seilern

Villa Seilern Vital Resort is a blend of imperial grandeur and modern luxury, housed in a historic villa that radiates timeless elegance. The resort’s restaurant offers creative, health-conscious cuisine with regional roots, served in a stylish setting. A spacious spa and wellness oasis with saunas, pools, and a wide range of treatments provides the ultimate in relaxation.

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Day 6 Walk to Siriuskogel and Elferkogel 9 miles / 15 km

This morning, head for the Siriuskogel, Bad Ischl’s local hill at approx. 600 metres above sea-level. From the top, enjoy views over Bad Ischl from the panoramic watch tower. Take the cable-car to Katrin Alm at 1,400m for a taste of the high-mountain life. Ascend on foot to the Katrinkogel (1,544m) and the Elferkogel (1,603m) where you can enjoy spectacular 360 views of the Salzkammergut landscapes. Treat yourself to some homemade Kaiserschmarrn (hot fluffy pancake served with home-made jam and icing sugar) at the Katrin Alm mountain hut, before descending back to Bad Ischl.

Ascent/Descent: 325m/325m

Overnight Bad Ischl

Accommodations

A sample of our typical carefully chosen accommodation in this location. Where you stay will vary depending on availability, but will be a similar standard.

Hotel Goldenes Schiff | Hotel

Hotel Goldener Ochs | Hotel

Villa Seilern

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Day 7 Train and Boat to Hallstatt, walk to Bad Goisern 7 miles / 11 km

After breakfast, take a short train and ferry to Hallstatt, a world famous UNESCO World Heritage Site, that interestingly has its own replica town in China. The village is very popular with visitors and it’s easy to see why. It looks as if it’s straight from a fairy-tale, with pretty cobbled streets and green mountains that rise up steeply from the crystal waters of Lake Hallstatter. Spend some time exploring the village before taking the ferry back to the east side of the lake. Follow a walking trail with beautiful views of Hallstatt and the Dachstein Glacier. Continue to Bad Goisern, another charming village but without the hustle and bustle of Hallstatt.

Ascent/Descent: 70m/85m

Overnight Bad Goisern

Accommodations

A sample of our typical carefully chosen accommodation in this location. Where you stay will vary depending on availability, but will be a similar standard.

Hotel Moserwirt | Hotel

Hotel Moserwirt has been a beloved meeting place in Bad Goisern for generations, combining tradition with warm Austrian hospitality. It's only a few minutes walk from Bad Goisern’s small but charming pedestrianised centre. The restaurant serves hearty regional cuisine, often accompanied by lively local gatherings that give it a truly authentic flair. Enjoy a cocktail or local beer at the traditional bar.

Landhotel Agathawirt

Landhotel Agathawirt is set in a charming historic building surrounded by the stunning landscape of the Salzkammergut. Its restaurant is well-known for traditional Austrian dishes and seasonal specialties, served in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. Guests also enjoy a wellness area with sauna and indoor pool, offering the perfect way to relax after exploring the mountains and lakes.

Hotel Goldenes Schiff | Hotel

Day 8 Onward Travel

THIS TRIP'S CARBON SCORE

This trip has a carbon score of 13kg per person per night, meaning it’s one of our best trips! For comparison, a carbon count of 13kg is equivalent to 4 cheeseburgers. Here at Macs, we pride ourselves on being a responsible travel company and continue to adopt, develop and innovate ways to positively impact the environment. Find out more information about how we've carbon counted our trips.

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Other Information

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Is it for me?

If you want to visit the most well-known towns, villages and lakes of the Salzkammergut, while exploring the local countryside on easy-going, well-built trails, then this is the itinerary for you. Stay in traditional and comfortable 3* hotels, offering the best of Austrian hospitality.

Tour Type:

Slower Adventures | Where walking and cycling meet easy-going exploring, our Slower Adventures are the perfect combination. Most days are filled with picturesque journeys with some free time to dive into the destination and experience the people, local food and culture as you go.

Activity:

Inn to Inn Walking | Walk from place-to-place changing accommodations each night. Generally staying in B&Bs, inns, and guesthouses.

This trip is suitable for:

Solo Travellers, Groups > 10

The minimum age for this tour is: 12 Years

Ideal if you have an interest in:

Foodie

Wine

Accessible by Rail

Alpine Walking

Activity Level & Terrain

This trip is rated ‘easy -moderate’ overall. The longest day is 16km and the average daily distance is 11km. All walks follow well-built and well maintained paths and trails, which are also all very well waymarked and easy to follow.

Experience & Fitness

The walks on this itinerary do not pose any technical trails or difficult paths, and the ascent and descent is minimal. All trails are suitable for beginners.

Accommodation & Meals

Accommodations

Due to a minimum stay in the hotels during peak season, your itinerary will be affected by this and we will book The region has a very good public transport network with many buses, regional trains and ferries, so your walks can be easily reached.

You will spend 7 nights in comfortable 3 & 4* hotels and guesthouses. The hotels have been hand-picked and all offer a warm welcome to hikers. The accommodation we normally use is indicated in the itinerary, however, is subject to availability. We will always try our best to accommodate you in the hotels and locations described, however, the Salzkammergut region is very popular and it may not always be possible. In these cases, we will accommodate you in nearby towns that can easily be reached by the region's excellent public transport network. You can add on extra nights in any of the overnight locations on this tour.

Please be aware that twin & double rooms in Austria (Doppelzimmer in German) are typically 2 single mattresses side by side in one double bed frame with two separate duvet covers and pillows.

Single Rooms and Solo Walkers

This trip is available to solo walkers but a solo walker supplement is payable. Single rooms are also available should someone in your party prefer to have their own room. Again, a supplement is payable.

Meals

7 Breakfasts are included in the cost of your trip. Breakfast is always buffet-style with various options available. Expect a continental breakfast with bread, jams, pastries, yoghurt and muesli available. Usually there are also local meats and cheeses, eggs and fruit on offer. Dinners and lunches are not included so you have the freedom to choose from what’s on offer each day. You may be able to order a packed lunch at your accommodation for the following day, or you can find bakeries and shops in each town to stock up on food for your hikes. There are plenty of options for dinner each night, either at your hotel or in nearby restaurants. Food in Austria is hearty and traditional, with meat and cheese being some of the dominant ingredients! If you have any dietary requirements please let us know at the time of booking.

Navigation What's Included

Included

7 Nights in 3 & 4* standard Hotels and Guesthouses
7 Breakfasts
Baggage transfers
Information Pack, maps, route notes, GPX tracks, access to our smartphone app
24-7 Emergency telephone support from our German and UK offices

Excluded

Travel insurance (required)
Travel to Fuschl am See and from Bad Goisern
Lunches & Dinners
Drinks and snacks
Ferries, buses and any other public transport
Personal equipment

Extras

Additional nights before, during or after the walk
Solo walker supplement
Single room supplement (s)

When to go Travel & Transfers Info & FAQ

General Information

The distances and ascents/descents are approximations of the recommended routes. Please be prepared by packing all necessary items, for example proper rain gear, sun hat, sunscreen. Your information pack has detailed advice and a kit list on what to take. This includes good waterproof gear, walking shoes/boots, and lots of other useful bits and bobs.

Equipment

Our pre-departure information pack has detailed advice and a kit list on what to take with you. This includes warm and cold weather gear, hiking boots, and lots of other useful bits and bobs.