Too hot to handle? With new temperature records across Europe every summer, more and more holidaymakers are looking for alternative destinations to beat the heat. Swapping beaches for the mountains, rivers, and high-altitude lakes coolcations in Austria offer you the chance to beat the heat with Austrian adventures.
Summer holidays in Austria can be delightfully refreshing. From hiking and biking by the water to yoga and meditation, here’s how to cool off in Austrian regions such as Zillertal, Paznaun – Ischgl or St. Anton am Arlberg during the hottest months.
Coolcations in Austria
Check out this cool adventures for body and soul in Austria this summer:
Watersports in Austria
Sail, paddle, dive or take a dip: Austria’s top regions for watersports.
Swimming, rafting, diving, you name it, our holiday resorts have it all! Despite being a land-locked country, Austria is a hotspot for all things watersports.
And it’s not just about the activity: Sports enthusiasts get to see the country’s stunning landscapes from a whole new perspective when venturing out, while those after a leisurely dip can look forward to some of the cleanest waters in Europe. Check out what regions such as Zell am See – Kaprun und Schladming – Dachstein have to offer!
Lakes & Cycling
Carinthia is calling! Experience Austria’s southernmost province.
Carinthia in southern Austria, easily reachable with Ryanair twice a week from London to Klagenfurt. It is a dream destination for holidaymakers looking for a mix of cooling lakes, sporty activities and lots of sunshine.
A great way to experience it all is the Carinthian Lake Loop, a cycling network with more than 400 km of trails and 20 lakes along the way. As a bonus, Carinthia is also considered to be the world’s first Slow Food Destination.
Summer Events
Paznaun – Ischgl: Top events for sports enthusiasts and foodies.
The Paznaun – Ischgl region is a haven for outdoor adventures but it’s equally well-known for its many events.
Sporty highlights this year include the PIUT Paznaun Ischgl Ultra Trail (12 – 13 July), the Ischgl Ironbike (2 – 3 August), the Golden Summits (31 August – 13 October), and the E-Bike World Championship for Everyone (5 – 7 September). Looking for a foodie experience? Head to the Culinary Paznaun (5 July – 14 September).
It’s (almost) Pride Month
Pride in Austria: A travel guide for LGBTQ+ travellers.
Pride Month is around the corner and parades and celebrations are to take place all over the country. It goes without saying, however, that Austria welcomes queer guests with open arms all year round.
Have a look at our most popular LGBTQ+ hotspots, from clubs, bars and cafes to Austria’s first queer mountain hut. Attention sports fans: The EuroGames 2024, Europe’s largest LGBTQ+ sports event, will take place in Vienna from 17 – 20 July.
Austria Hotel Collection
Relax & rewind: Alpine hotels you need to know.
Pack your day with outdoor adventures, then get pampered at your home away from home and recharge your batteries. The Austria Hotel Collection 2024 unites the best hotels the Austrian alpine regions have to offer, all guaranteeing top-notch amenities and service, while each being truly unique.
Have a look at highlights such as Hotel Gotthard in Lech am Arlberg (pictured), steeped in history and family traditions.
This article and images about coolcations in Austria was provided as a press release by the Austrian Tourist Board. To beat the heat book your own Austrian adventure holidays.












