Discover the most Enchanting Forests in Austria

Written on : 15 March 2021
By : Laura Wendy Harders López

Forests abound in Austria. For nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, these alpine-forested wonders are a treat for the soul and senses. Discover our rundown of the most beautifully lush and enchanting forests in Austria.

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Lake Weissensee and the Carinthia Nature Reserve

Located at 930 metres above sea level sits Lake Weissensee, surrounded by the otherworldly lush nature reserve of Carinthia, recently prized for its environment protection commitment and conservation efforts, boasting a wealth of flora and fauna for one to get lost in. The lake is blessed with 22 different fish species, and according to legend, it is said that its brilliant water has medicinal properties, not to mention it's known to be one of the purest and drinkable in Austria.

While the lake can reach a temperature of 24ºC in the summer, making for an ideal spot for swimming and other fun water sports, the lake completely freezes in the winter, converting into an enjoyable ice-skating rink enveloped by the enchanting forests of Carinthia.

Stubai Valley

Exploring the Stubai Valley is one of the must-visit attractions for any nature lover vacationing in Austria. The Stubai Valley, situated about 40 km from southern Innsbruck, is peppered with an array of quaint mountain villages quintessential of the Alpine Tyrol region. It boasts magnificent pristine forests sprawling over its fascinating mountain ranges. For contemplating the most breathtaking views of the region, one must attempt to reach Tyrol's 3210-metres-above-sea-level-summit, only accessible by hiking through the challenging Stubai High Trail. Venture through these forested mountain expanses, and reward yourself to a feast for the soul and senses once reaching this thrilling mountain peak.

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Zell am See Forest

Steeped in legends and fables, Zell Am see is known as a mystical-themed forest boasting an array of hiking trails that snake through the large expanses of its enchanting woodlands, mountain ranges, and wild paths, ideal for filling one's day with outdoor fun and wonder. Take your children to explore these beautiful nature paths that will instantly whisk their imagination to a magical fairy-tale world. What's more, after roaming through and contemplating the forest's pristine beauty, reaching the end of the family hiking trail will reward your children with an adventure playground!

Kaiser Range Forest

With a dense forest expanse sprawled along 400 km of a magnificent soaring mountain range in Tyrol, dominating part of bordering Germany, venturing through the meandering trails of this alpine paradise is a real treat for experienced hikers. However, for those hiking amateurs but somewhat inexperienced, easy to medium level trails can also be enjoyed catering to all levels and tastes. Some of the most famous forested-mountain peaks are Zettenkaiser (1968 m), Naunspitze (1633). Sonneck (2200 m), Scheffauer (2281), among many others.

Arlberg Forest

Arlberg Forest is a natural paradise situated on the westernmost part of Austria, bordering Switzerland. This sprawling nature reserve not only boasts views that will take your breath away but also some excellent ski resorts and weather conditions to enjoy an array of outdoor sports. Known as the "cradle of Alpine ski", Arlberg is visited by numerous skiers and hikers searching for a thrilling adventure 1304 m above sea level. Surrounding Arlberg, quaint must-visit villages are tucked away in its idyllic mountains, framed into the beautiful landscape- Lech, Zürs, Stuben, St Anton Am Arlberg, and St Christoph. St Anton is the capital of the region and is popular among tourists for its connoisseur restaurants.

Gosau Forest

Located in the district of Gmunden in northern Austria, Gosau Forest blankets over its magnificent mountain range at 700 m above sea level. The area boasts a wealth of fauna and flora, organic wonders, rugged peaks, and shimmering rivers. What's more, one would be lucky if they plan to visit the area between the 13th and 21st of January to see the explosion of colours that parade in the sky. These of which are flaunting hot-air balloons for Gosau's annual celebration of Hot-Air Balloon Week. Among its must-visit attractions are Gosau Lake and the Glaciers. The area's meandering trails are also bound to knock you sideways, offering indescribable views of natural beauty at every corner.

Wachau Forest

Located only 80 km from the westernmost part of Vienna, the Wachau region is considered one of the most beautiful natural landscapes and valleys of the Danube river, where nature meets history, with medieval villages, bucolic and forest sceneries, apricots, and vineyards. This magnificent region boasts some spectacular weather conditions, offering sunny days galore all-year-round.
The area is also known for its wine culture. Tourists can savour a nice glass of local wine while cruising over the Danube River and taking in the natural surroundings of Wachau's enchanting forests.

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