As the summer heat turns to warm fall days, it’s time to look ahead to planning that autumn retreat. Embrace the changing season with something new and different—a trip to the Austrian Alps! Take in festivals, outdoor sporting tournaments, retreats and the simple changing scenery of the mountains showcasing the best of fall foliage. Here are five reasons to head to the Alps for your perfect fall vacation:
Take in the Beauty of Fall at the Top of Tyrol Summit Platform
Views of the Stubai and Otztaler Alps from the almost floating platform at Top of Tyrol Summit are unparalleled during the autumn season. Architects Kathrin Aste and Frank Ludlin designed a one-of-a-kind structure made from steel and timber placed on top of the Stubai Glacier, which creates an experience worthy of any bucket list. Find more information at the Tyrol Tourist Board website.
Enjoy Fall Foliage with Innsbruck’s Free Hiking Program
Intoxicating summit experiences, unique mountain views and rustic mountain huts—experience all this and more with the free mountain hiking program now through October. Experienced guides will take you to the most impressive places and viewpoints in the area. Join the search for alpine highlights and discover the most beautiful mountains in the region. Mountain and hiking guides take care of your safety and well-being, while sharing their mountain expertise and many valuable natural highlights that will leave you wanting more. For more information, visit Innsbruck City’s website.
Savor a Taste of the Alps at St. Anton Culinary & Arts Festival
Now in its third year, the St. Anton Culinary & Arts Festival brings foodies, art lovers and golf enthusiasts together in a visual and delectable feast from mid-August to mid-September. The festival features celebrity chefs Eckart Witzigmann, Heinz Winkler und Hans-Peter Wodarz; art exhibits with regionally recognized artists; and a palette of wine pairings, all set in the scenic mountain splendor of St. Anton Village. Very much in demand, the 30 culinary events are available on a first-come, first-served basis and fill up quickly, so register early. Get more information at the Tyrol Tourist Board website.
A Tyrolean Tradition: Nordkette Autumn Festival
The Nordkette Autumn Festival takes place every year over three weekends in October. This unique event is held at the Seegrube above Innsbruck, located 1,905 meters above sea level. Live music, culinary delights, traditional “Schuhplattler” dancers and alphorn players create the perfect atmosphere for exuberant celebrations. Enjoy an excellent selection of Tyrolean specialties at Alpenrestaurant Seegrube. The many market stalls on Saturdays and Sundays also offer lots of delights to taste and enjoy. For more information, visit Innsbruck City’s website.
Fierce Competition at Adidas Sickline Extreme Kayak World Championship
The 9th Annual Sickline Extreme Kayak World Championships, the ultimate whitewater event, take place on the legendary “Wellerbrücke” river section in Austria’s Oetztal Valley on October 5 and 6. This section of Ötztaler Ache River is both feared and endeared by extreme kayakers, all of whom respect the river as much as they want to conquer it. The 280-meter-long river section’s rapids are solid class 5 whitewater, both technically difficult and dangerous. Admission to the Expo Area is free to spectators and the qualification course is freely accessible on Friday. On race day, Saturday, admission is 5 euros per adult. All proceeds benefit local charity organizations. Find more information at the Tyrol Tourist Board website.
- Photo of Platform: TVB Pitztal / Ritschel Bernd
- Photo of Hiking: Achensee Tourismus
- Photo of Kayaking: Alpbachtal Seenland
