In 2026, the EPIC Bikepark Leogang in the Saalfelden Leogang region celebrates its 25th anniversary – a major milestone for Austria’s very first bike park, which today attracts mountain bikers from all over the world. With events such as the annual WHOOP UCI Mountain Bike World Series and the UCI Mountain Bike World Championships in 2012, 2020 and again in 2028, the EPIC Bikepark Leogang has repeatedly become the epicenter of the international mountain bike scene. In the anniversary year 2026, everything revolves around the 25-year celebration, with the highlight being the big 25 years community event from 24–26 July. The mountain bike world in 2001 When the EPIC Bikepark Leogang first opened its gates in 2001, Nicolas Vouilloz claimed the Downhill World Championship title in Vail/Beaver Creek ahead of Steve Peat and Greg Minnaar, while Anne Caroline Chausson took gold in the women’s race. Leogang legend Aaron Gwin was 14 years old at the time, and today’s local hero Vali Höll was about to be born. In the desert of Utah, freeride icon Wade Simmons won the very first Red Bull Rampage. In the Pinzgau region, bike operations kicked off with just four lines and plenty of scepticism. Inspired by a concept from MTS based on the diploma thesis of Martin Samek – initiator and chairman of Trailwerk Wachau – the idea of a bike park in Leogang slowly took shape. After a site visit to Bikepark Geisskopf in Bischofsmais, Germany in October 2000, the decision was made to move forward with the project. The initial investment was split evenly between the Leogang cable car company and around 30 local silent partners, including the municipality, the tourism board, private investors and even the local earthworks contractor. “The start 25 years ago was anything but easy. We had to convince many sceptics, overcome plenty of obstacles and appeal to a completely new target group. Looking back, it’s clear that the strong cohesion within the initiator team and our shared belief in the project were key to turning the bike park into the success story it is today. Especially the early years were economically challenging. Through clear, target-group-focused communication and outstanding event formats – developed together with our long-standing partner agency Rasoulution around Tarek Rasouli – we managed to put Bikepark Leogang on the global map. The reward: two UCI Mountain Bike World Championships so far and 14 UCI Mountain Bike World Cup events – THANK YOU!” – Kornel Grundner, CEO Leoganger Bergbahnen Continuous growth, slopestyle events, world championships & more: highlights from 2001 to today A lot has happened in Saalfelden Leogang since that very first season. The number of lines and trails has grown to 21 – or 30 if you include the Riders Playground completed in 2013. Annual bike traffic has also increased massively: from 16,700 uplift rides in 2001 to around 270,000 rides per bike summer today. Both the region and the bike park look back on a long list of top-tier events and special moments. The first of what are now 14 UCI Mountain Bike World Cups took place in Saalfelden Leogang in 2010. Just two years later, in 2012, the region hosted its first UCI Mountain Bike World Championships, followed by a second edition in 2020. The third World Championships are already confirmed for 2028 – and the World Cup will continue to stop in Leogang until at least 2030. From 2006 to 2017, the world’s best slopestyle riders threw down at the legendary 26TRIX in the EPIC Bikepark Leogang, wowing fans at the foot of the Asitz gondola with mind-blowing tricks and multiple world-firsts. With White Style (2006–2018), Saalfelden Leogang also catered to those who didn’t want to miss world-class riding in winter, bringing a spectacular and innovative slopestyle event to the ski slopes. Many renowned riders like Andreu Lacondeguy, Brandon Semenuk, Sam Pilgrim or Thomas Genon celebrated their international breakthrough on the Leogang slopestyle courses. Anniversary weekend, World Cup, bike festival & more – what’s coming in 2026 How exactly the 25th anniversary celebrations will look is still under wraps, but the EPIC Bikepark Leogang community can already mark 24–26 July 2026 in their calendars for the big anniversary weekend. Of course, the WHOOP UCI Mountain Bike World Series will also return this season. Just over a month after the season kicks off on 8 May, the world’s best riders will compete in Downhill, Cross-Country (Olympic and Short Track) and Enduro from 11–14 June 2026. Another highlight on the event calendar is the renowned bike festival Saalfelden Leogang, which returns for its seventh edition with a new date from 2–4 October. Beyond festivals and races, the park’s diverse mix of downhill, flow and jump lines as well as naturally shaped singletracks invite riders of all skill levels and preferences to shred – solo, with friends or as part of one of the many riding camps on offer. With the Ladies Shred Events continuing in 2026, the bike park and the region are once again putting a strong focus on female empowerment in mountain biking. Camps, workshops and dedicated women’s offers provide the perfect environment to work on skills with professional coaching, ride trails, berms and jumps with more confidence, and connect with other MTB girls. With its 25th anniversary, the EPIC Bikepark Leogang once again underlines its role as a leading competence centre for mountain biking in Europe. Perfectly maintained trails, innovative track concepts and an infrastructure that excites both pros and beginners have turned the bike park – together with the Saalfelden Leogang region – into a hotspot for world-class riding experiences. Alongside Saalbach Hinterglemm and Fieberbrunn, it has long formed Austria’s largest bike region, boasting more than 120 kilometres of lines and trails. “In 2026, the EPIC Bikepark Leogang celebrates its 25th anniversary – a major milestone for Austria’s largest bike region, Saalbach Hinterglemm Leogang Fieberbrunn. What started 25 years ago as a bold vision has become an international flagship for mountain biking. The bike park stands not only for top-level sport and iconic events, but for lived passion, innovation and a community that keeps growing year after year. Together with our regional partners, we’re constantly working to deliver an unmatched bike experience – and 2026 will make that more visible than ever.” – Marco Pointner, CEO Saalfelden Leogang Touristik
The “3 Days of Jazz Saalfelden Leogang” has once again established itself as a highlight in the winter calendar of the jazz scene in 2026. From 23 to 25 January 2026, the compact yet artistically curated winter edition of the renowned Jazzfestival Saalfelden transformed the mountain region into a lively laboratory for contemporary jazz. Featuring national and international artists, extraordinary venues, and an impressive variety of music, the festival offered a weekend full of discoveries — and, with an occupancy rate of 95%, marked a strong start to the music year 2026. Cinematic opening: Jazz in Austria – From Liberation to a New Beginning Even before the official festival opening on Thursday evening, a free film screening at Kunsthaus Nexus kicked off the event. The ORF documentary “Jazz in Austria – From Liberation to a New Beginning” is a German-language chronicle that vividly and entertainingly depicts how jazz became a symbol of social renewal and cultural freedom after 1945. Andreas Felber, one of the film’s producers, attended the screening and later answered questions from the audience. Friday: An evening of contrasts in the church and at Nexus Friday evening officially launched the festival in Saalfelden’s parish church. The duo of Swiss pianist Colin Vallon and French cellist Vincent Courtois presented their album “A Simple Fall” with minimalist, lyrical pieces. In the church’s atmosphere, the musicians created a rare, deeply moving intensity. Afterwards, the audience moved to Kunsthaus Nexus, where Robinson Khoury and his trio MŸA continued the program. Their electroacoustic soundscapes, interwoven with Middle Eastern scales and a blend of world jazz, post-rock, and experimental electronics, produced a dense and multi-layered sonic cosmos. The trio impressed with rhythmic precision and atmospheric intensity. The evening closed with Jazzorchester Vorarlberg feat. Martin Eberle & Benny Omerzell, celebrating its 20th anniversary with “Sonus Variegate”. The musical journey ranged from electronic beats to the warm richness of brass and woodwinds, from sacred silence to powerful outbursts — a powerful finale to the night. Saturday: Dance, grooves, and boundary-crossing Saturday was all about contrasts and musical diversity. The day began with a free lunchtime concert at AsitzBräu, in the heart of the Skicircus Saalbach Hinterglemm Leogang Fieberbrunn. The Wango Tangos set the mood with rockabilly classics from Elvis, Dolly Parton, and Johnny Cash, delivering a lively atmosphere and danceable energy despite ski boots. At Kunsthaus Nexus, the Joanna Duda Trio followed in the evening, presenting “Delighted.” Driving grooves, delicate sound structures, warm tones, and improvisational freedom merged into a distinctive, flowing sound. Immediately after, the Sélène Saint-Aimé String Trio presented a jazz reinterpretation of cultural identity, reminiscent of a musical journey across continents. The evening concluded with the Icelandic band ADHD. Moving between jazz, rock, ambient, and folk, the charming quartet created a virtuosic and intense sonic universe. Sunday: Between words, music, and space at the Mining and Gothic Museum Leogang Festival Sunday took place in the intimate setting of the Mining and Gothic Museum Leogang. In the morning, the duo Sofia Labropoulou & Christian Reiner opened the day with an improvised dialogue of music and poetic recitation. The combination of sound and language created a narrative depth that made the Sunday particularly intense. The festival finale was delivered by Jelena Popržan — with viola, voice, looper, jaw harp, and glass harp. Her solo performance was full of humor, surprises, and unforgettable moments — an apt and deeply emotional closing chord to a weekend full of discoveries. Conclusion: A winter festival with international resonance The “3 Days of Jazz Saalfelden Leogang” 2026 was more than a festival — it was a sound space filled with intensity and a spirit of discovery, ranging from chamber music intimacy to powerful electronic energy. Through extraordinary venues, an international lineup, and openness to new music, the festival once again confirmed itself as an important fixture in the European jazz landscape. A special highlight was the festival’s sustainable approach: organized as a GREEN EVENT SALZBURG, it relied on environmentally friendly measures — from regional food and drinks to waste reduction. The journey continues in summer: the 46th Jazzfestival Saalfelden will take place from 20 to 23 August 2026, offering music lovers from around the world a diverse program of contemporary sounds and new formats in the midst of breathtaking mountain scenery. Tickets go on sale on 9 February 2026 online at www.jazzsaalfelden.com
From 23 to 25 January 2026, the winter mountain region will once again become a stage for contemporary jazz, improvisation, and musical experimentation. The compact winter edition of the renowned Jazzfestival Saalfelden is known for its exceptional venues, international artists, and musical discoveries that transcend conventional genre boundaries. Already on Thursday, 22 January, a free film evening at Kunsthaus Nexus will set the tone for the weekend. The ORF documentary “Jazz in Austria – From Liberation to a New Beginning” (in German language) will be screened, highlighting the social and cultural significance of jazz after 1945. The official concert programme begins on Friday with the duo Colin Vallon and Vincent Courtois at Saalfelden Parish Church. At Kunsthaus Nexus, the electroacoustic trio MŸA, led by French trombonist Robinson Khoury, will perform, followed by the Jazz Orchestra Vorarlberg under the direction of Martin Eberle and Benny Omerzell. The orchestra will celebrate its 20th anniversary with the project “Sonus Variegate”. Saturday showcases the full spectrum of the festival: from the infectious rockabilly of The Wango Tangos at the free afternoon concert in AsitzBräu, right in the heart of the Skicircus Saalbach Hinterglemm Leogang Fieberbrunn, to the sophisticated grooves of the Joanna Duda Trio and the poetic Sélène Saint-Aimé String Trio at Kunsthaus Nexus, and finally the Icelandic group ADHD, whose intense, genre-defying sound has been captivating audiences and critics alike for years. On Sunday, gentle, narrative sounds take centre stage: Sofia Labropoulou and Christian Reiner combine improvised music and poetry at the Mining and Gothic Museum Leogang, before Jelena Popržan concludes the festival with a multifaceted solo performance spanning jazz, contemporary music, folk, and cabaret. “3 Days of Jazz Festival Saalfelden Leogang” opens the new year with a concentrated festival format that highlights the diversity of today’s jazz scene – international, experimental, and open-minded. In line with sustainability principles, “3 Days of Jazz Saalfelden Leogang” is organised as a GREEN EVENT SALZBURG. This means the event is designed to be especially eco-friendly – from regional food and beverages to minimising waste. Photo: Jelena Popržan (c) Igor Ripak
<p style="text-align:justify"><strong>White Pearl Mountain Days in the Skicircus Saalbach Hinterglemm Leogang Fieberbrunn presented by Visa | March 20–29, 2026 | Ticket sales have started | Ten days, 19 locations and 80 international DJs & live acts</strong></p> <p style="text-align:justify">Every year, the White Pearl Mountain Days presented by Visa make visitors’ hearts beat faster in the Skicircus Saalbach Hinterglemm Leogang Fieberbrunn. The perfectly balanced mix of sunny skiing, balance & recovery, exquisite cuisine, as well as top DJs and live acts guarantees an intense dose of joie de vivre for all ages and tastes. Set against a stunning winter backdrop, stars from the international and local club scene will heat things up for guests, including Arkadyan, Disco Dom, Antdot, House Gospel Choir (DJ set), McFly and Slashy Disco.</p> <p style="text-align:justify">When the White Pearl Mountain Days presented by Visa once again invite guests to the most beautiful winter finale of the year in the Skicircus Saalbach Hinterglemm Leogang Fieberbrunn, the snow-covered mountain peaks are transformed into a paradise of music, active lifestyle, premium cuisine and the uniquely enjoyable sunny skiing across 270 kilometers of slopes. Over the course of ten days, people celebrate, dance and indulge at 19 locations – with the clear goal of celebrating joie de vivre and an active lifestyle in all its facets.</p> <p style="text-align:justify"><strong>A line-up made to dance.</strong> Numerous international top acts, who regularly fill the world’s most sought-after clubs, will turn the rustic sun terraces of ski huts into dance floors with true club vibes. Among them are Arkadyan with their unique mix of instruments and electronic sounds; Disco Dom with his electrifying live performances inspired by the seventies; Brazilian artist Antdot with the highly danceable energy of his signature Afro-house style; and Salzburg-based Slashy Disco, known for creating an outstanding atmosphere with his creative blend of house music and disco classics. These headliners are complemented by a wide variety of live acts featuring e-cello, percussion, piano, trumpet, saxophone and vocals.</p> <p style="text-align:justify"><strong>In harmony with body and soul</strong>. Those looking to indulge both body and soul will find exactly what they’re looking for with the Balance & Recovery program by Merkur Versicherung. A wide range of free offerings such as HIIT, Yoga Flow, Pilates, Disco Workout, breathwork sessions, sound baths, meditation and ice bathing cater to all senses and preferences – conveniently located in the town center of Saalbach-Hinterglemm.</p> <p style="text-align:justify"><strong>Tickets available now.</strong> The addictive appeal of the White Pearl Mountain Days 2026 in the Skicircus Saalbach Hinterglemm Leogang Fieberbrunn presented by Visa is huge: once you’ve been there, you’ll keep coming back! Anyone who wants to experience live how numerous acts bring the atmosphere to a boil should secure their tickets at www.wpmdays.at<br /> On weekdays, admission to all locations is free.</p> <p style="text-align:justify"> </p> <p style="text-align:justify"><br /> <u><strong>QUOTES</strong></u></p> <p style="text-align:justify"><strong>Georg Hartberger, mastermind of the White Pearl Mountain Days</strong><br /> “For us, the White Pearl Mountain Days are not just an event, but much more a way of life – one that we want to take to a new level in 2026 together with our partners Visa and Red Bull, with even more depth, quality and experiential value. A new visual identity, new event formats and, for the first time, two locations that will host international top acts throughout all ten days. Overall, it’s a unique concept based on indulgence and joie de vivre, combined with the exceptionally attractive sunny skiing in the Skicircus Saalbach Hinterglemm Leogang Fieberbrunn.”</p> <p style="text-align:justify"><strong>Stefanie Ahammer, Country Manager Visa Austria</strong><br /> “In 2026, Visa is once again a partner of the White Pearl Mountain Days in the Skicircus Saalbach Hinterglemm Leogang Fieberbrunn, ensuring secure, convenient and fast payment at all locations. This gives visitors more space to focus on what really matters: unforgettable moments amidst the impressive Alpine scenery.”</p> <p style="text-align:justify"><strong>Marco Pointner, Managing Director of Saalfelden Leogang Touristik GmbH</strong><br /> “The White Pearl Mountain Days 2026 stand for alpine lifestyle, lightness and special moments of indulgence – and they extend the skiing season well into spring. This event connects people through music, cuisine and spring skiing in the unique atmosphere of our mountain world. My thanks go to all partners, hosts and guests who make this experience possible year after year.”</p> <p style="text-align:justify"> </p> <p style="text-align:justify"><br /> Tickets, line-up, location plan, travel information and ongoing updates on the WPMDays can be found here:www.wpmdays.at</p>
On 25 November 2025, the 7th Saalfelden Leogang Tourism Day took place at Congress Saalfelden. Organized by Saalfelden Leogang Touristik, the event once again provided an important platform for exchange among businesses and regional stakeholders from all sectors. The Tourism Day sent a strong signal of cohesion, innovation, and a clear strategic focus on a successful 2025/26 winter season. The event was officially opened by Hannes Riedlsperger, Chairman of the Saalfelden Tourism Association, Nadja Blumenkamp, Chairwoman of the Leogang Tourism Association, and Marco Pointner, Managing Director of Saalfelden Leogang Touristik. They emphasized the importance of collaboration among all regional service providers, lived hospitality, and a consistent focus on quality. Over the past years, Saalfelden Leogang has established itself as one of the leading year-round destinations in the Alpine region—not only for visitors but also as an attractive place to live for locals. Maintaining the balance between economic strength and regional quality of life remains a central goal of the tourism strategy. A special moment was also celebrated during the opening: Marco Pointner was honored by Nadja Blumenkamp and Hannes Riedlsperger for his ten years of dedication as Managing Director of Saalfelden Leogang Touristik. They highlighted his tireless commitment, strategic foresight, and decisive contribution to the successful development of the destination. Visionary Impulses: Inspiration from Politics, Strategy, and International Tourism Marketing The 2025 Tourism Day featured two high-profile presentations that offered new perspectives and valuable insights for tourism communication, contributing to the sustainable development of the region. Mag.a Astrid Steharnig-Staudinger, CEO of Austria Tourism Since May 2023, Astrid Steharnig-Staudinger has led Austria Tourism, shaping the strategic development of domestic tourism with expertise and a clear vision. She provided an extensive overview of the national tourism marketing realignment and impressively demonstrated why Austria is the most tourism-intensive country in the world. With around 220 employees, Austria Tourism works to make the country even more visible internationally and to open new perspectives in global competition. She emphasized the importance of measuring success not only by overnight stays but increasingly in terms of value creation. Destinations must position themselves clearly, create authentic experiences, and consistently highlight their unique qualities. In this context, Saalfelden Leogang was highlighted as a model: a true year-round region that captivates visitors in both summer and winter while prioritizing sustainable development. Steharnig-Staudinger also presented Austria’s new culinary positioning. The country boasts organic agriculture, unique table culture, fine cuisine, and authentic producers—a potential that will be communicated more strongly internationally in the future. Winter tourism is being redefined as well: moving away from the traditional “ski tourist” toward a diverse “winter tourist” who combines skiing with relaxation, nature, culinary experiences, and authentic adventures. Innovative, bold, and internationally oriented marketing initiatives are therefore key to Austria’s successful future in global tourism. Univ.-Prof. Dr. Peter Filzmaier, Political Scientist & Head of the Institute for Strategy Analyses (ISA) Peter Filzmaier is a professor of political science, head of the Institute for Strategy Analyses (ISA), and a renowned political commentator for ORF, newspapers, and academic publications. In his presentation, he examined how social developments, political frameworks, and tourism communication interact and the resulting opportunities and risks. Under the title “Tourism is great, but how do I tell the media?” he illustrated the complex relationship between professional reality, political perception, and media representation. Filzmaier highlighted the importance of clear target group communication, precise positioning, and credible messaging. Honesty, authenticity, and truthfulness are crucial in communication. Around 70% of communication impact is visual—underscoring the central role of imagery. He also urged tourism stakeholders to always adopt a critical external perspective and to view their services through the eyes of guests. With practical tips on media management, storytelling, and economic image building, he provided valuable guidance for modern and effective public relations in destinations and businesses. A Strong Foundation for the Future The 7th Saalfelden Leogang Tourism Day highlighted the importance of knowledge transfer, regional collaboration, and a clear strategic vision for the coming years. The event demonstrated that the region is well-prepared to meet current and future challenges—with courage, innovation, and a strong network of committed partners. With valuable impulses, inspiring personalities, and intensive exchanges, the 2025 Tourism Day laid the groundwork for a successful winter season and the continued future-oriented development of the Saalfelden Leogang destination.
<p style="text-align:justify">With this honor, the region recognizes the outstanding commitment of the local rescue team, whose indispensable work plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety of both residents and guests in the alpine environment. The award is presented annually, alternating between the towns of Saalfelden and Leogang.</p> <p style="text-align:justify">In Saalfelden Leogang, it has long been a cherished tradition to acknowledge deserving institutions or individuals from the tourism sector through the presentation of this award. This year, the prestigious accolade once again goes to a volunteer-based organization: Mountain Rescue Leogang. Local station leader Johann Embacher accepted the award on behalf of the team on November 20 at the Hotel Krallerhof. “Mountain Rescue Leogang is a central pillar of our tourism infrastructure. Their tireless efforts in the mountains and their hands-on support at our events – such as the UCI Mountain Bike World Cup Saalfelden Leogang – make them a shining example of community spirit and responsibility,” emphasizes Marco Pointner, Managing Director of Saalfelden Leogang Touristik.</p> <p style="text-align:justify"> </p> <p style="text-align:justify"><strong>Strong partnership and valuable preventive work</strong><br /> At events in the region, such as the UCI Mountain Bike World Cup, which will take place next year from June 11 to 14, 2026, Mountain Rescue has always been an indispensable partner. Through their presence and expertise, team members contribute significantly to smooth and safe event operations. In addition to their missions, Mountain Rescue Leogang is also known for its preventive and training initiatives.</p> <p style="text-align:justify"> </p> <p style="text-align:justify"><strong>Indispensable for safety, quality, and trust</strong><br /> Mountain Rescue Leogang is a volunteer organization that ensures year-round safety in alpine terrain. Their operational area covers the entire municipality, the Leoganger Steinberge, and the grassy mountains extending to the Spielberg. With 32 active rescuers and 6 members in training, the team is ready to respond to emergencies—whether summer hiking and climbing accidents or winter avalanche and search operations. The significance of their work goes far beyond rescue missions: a reliable, fast, and professionally organized mountain rescue service is a key factor in the attractiveness of any mountain region as a travel destination. It builds trust and enables visitors to enjoy nature safely.</p> <p style="text-align:justify"> </p> <p style="text-align:justify"><strong>About the Saalfelden Leogang Tourism Award</strong><br /> The annually bestowed Tourism Award honors individuals, institutions, or associations that have made exceptional contributions to the region’s tourism development. The award recognizes sustainable achievements, innovative projects, and special commitment to enhancing the regional offering. Each year, the award ceremony alternates between Saalfelden and Leogang.</p>
Zero emissions are getting closer: Leoganger Bergbahnen reports a further reduction in CO₂ emissions for the 2024/25 winter season. Thanks to the full transition to the renewable fuel HVO100, CO₂ emissions were reduced to below 8 tonnes in the past winter season. In concrete terms, Leoganger Bergbahnen has reduced CO₂ emissions by 98.7% within just two winters since introducing its decarbonisation strategy. While emissions still amounted to 605 tonnes of CO₂ in winter 2022/23, the switch in fuel reduced this figure to just 24 tonnes. One year later, this figure had dropped to only 8 tonnes. The impressive 98.7% reduction achieved in the 2023/24 season has now increased even further. Kornel Grundner, Managing Director of Leoganger Bergbahnen, is proud of these results: “Leoganger Bergbahnen is already powered 100 per cent by green electricity. However, we also wanted to take further measures in slope operations, so we fully converted our entire fleet to HVO100. This transition has had the greatest impact on reducing CO₂ emissions.” All figures and evaluations are based on data from sustainable.de, a leading consultancy with many years of expertise in sustainability. The cable car fleet is almost emissions-free thanks to the fuel switch — well ahead of targets Leoganger Bergbahnen has set itself an ambitious goal: to generate zero emissions from its own operations — even before the deadlines set by Austria’s Climate Protection Act, which requires greenhouse gas neutrality by 2045. The company is well on track: it is the first cable car operator in Austria to have fully converted its entire fleet (including snow groomers, company vehicles and tractors) to the renewable fuel HVO100. The company is committed to energy efficiency, sustainability and resource conservation. Leoganger Bergbahnen has been active in various sustainability initiatives for many years. Since 2006, the company has invested in projects focused on these areas. Participation in flagship initiatives such as Clean Energy For Tourism (CE4T) and the Klima- und Energiestrategie Salzburg 2050 as the first cable car partner highlights the company’s strong commitment to sustainability. The remaining operational emissions primarily result from the use of biogenic energy sources for space heating (wood-chip combined heat and power plant). The cable cars and snowmaking systems already run entirely on green electricity. An extensive offering for climate-friendly travel Saalfelden Leogang has also prioritised climate-friendly travel and sustainable mobility, creating a wide range of options for visitors. The Loigom-Soifen Shuttle is an on-demand service that complements the existing public transport network with electric buses serving various stops in Leogang. This service is perfectly complemented by the new Guest Mobility Ticket from the Province of Salzburg. In addition, the Bergbahnen have established regional ski bus routes. A total of 20 charging stations (including two fast chargers) are available at the Asitzbahn and Steinbergbahn valley stations. Austrian Ecolabel awarded — one of the first regions to receive certification Sustainability plays a major role throughout the region. As a result, Saalfelden Leogang was awarded the Austrian Ecolabel for Destinations in 2023, making it one of the first regions in the country to receive this certification. The ecolabel recognises the destination’s efforts to make Austrian tourism more sustainable. This independent certification evaluates measures in sustainability, waste management, mobility and resource management. The steps already taken are showing positive results. “With the measures we have implemented, Leoganger Bergbahnen has already achieved great success. We continuously strive to strengthen our sustainability efforts in order to reach European targets ahead of time,” says Managing Director Kornel Grundner. More information: www.leoganger-bergbahnen.at Media Contact: Leoganger Bergbahnen GmbH / Julia Steger Hütten 39, A-5771 Leogang Tel.: +43 6583 8219-253 j.steger@leoganger-bergbahnen.at www.bergdersinne.at genböck pr, Nina Genböck Märkisches Ufer 28, 10179 Berlin Tel.: +49-30-22-48-77-01 nina.genboeck@genboeckpr.de www.genboeckpr.de
<p style="text-align:justify">With 19 Gault&Millau toques awarded to seven restaurants, the region once again confirms its reputation as a culinary highlight of the SalzburgerLand. The top establishments impress with a perfect balance of traditional Alpine cuisine, creative interpretations of regional ingredients, and refined international influences.</p> <p style="text-align:justify"> </p> <p style="text-align:justify"><u><strong>Kirchenwirt – 4 Toques, 18 Points</strong></u><br /> At the historic Kirchenwirt, tradition meets innovation. Head chef Stefan Birnbacher creates seasonal menus such as cured Alpine salmon with verjus or iced sour cream, complemented by exquisite wines that guarantee the highest culinary quality. The unique atmosphere, the renowned wine cellar of host, sommelier and Jeunes Restaurateur (JRE) Hans-Jörg Unterrainer, and the warm, personal service make every visit a truly exceptional experience. In 2026, the listed Kirchenwirt celebrates its 700th anniversary.</p> <p style="text-align:justify"><u><strong>dahoam – 4 Toques, 17 Points</strong></u><br /> The gourmet restaurant "dahoam" at the Good Life Resort Riederalm delights guests with its creative regional cuisine. Hotelier, head chef and Jeunes Restaurateur (JRE) Andreas Herbst and his team work almost exclusively with locally sourced ingredients. On their “Journey through Leogang”, the diversity of regional flavours is brought to life — from Leogang tomatoes and char with elderflower miso to tenderly roasted veal. The calm, elegant atmosphere and perfectly paired wines complete this culinary experience.</p> <p style="text-align:justify"><u><strong>Silva – 4 Toques, 17 Points</strong></u><br /> The fine-dining restaurant "Silva – Taste the Forest" at Naturhotel Forsthofgut blends forest-inspired creativity with culinary luxury and has gained an additional toque compared to last year. Chef Michael Helfrich crafts dishes such as langoustine with caviar or wild-caught pike-perch with smoked eel. The open kitchen, thoughtful storytelling, and perfectly coordinated wine pairings make each course a feast for all the senses.</p> <p style="text-align:justify"><u><strong>Ess:enz – 2 Toques, 13.5 Points</strong></u><br /> The fine-dining restaurant at Naturresort Puradies impresses with a new team, a modern concept, and now, an additional toque. In its elegant setting, seamlessly connected with nature through large panoramic windows, creative dishes such as “Garden of Eating” salads, cured beef fillet, or lamb ravioli are served. A stylish combination of uncomplicated soul food, refined presentation, and expert wine pairings.</p> <p style="text-align:justify"><u><strong>1617 – 2 Toques, 13.5 Points</strong></u><br /> Located within the elegant ensemble of the Forsthofgut, the restaurant 1617 serves Austrian cuisine with authentic character. Beef tartare, fondues, and a trio of lamb are prepared directly at the table, accompanied by traditional folk music. A diverse selection of wines ensures a perfectly balanced dining experience.</p> <p style="text-align:justify"><u><strong>Rupertus – 2 Toques, 13 Points</strong></u><br /> The Biohotel Rupertus in Leogang has stood for certified organic indulgence and relaxation since 1977. It focuses on sustainable gastronomy and a creative organic kitchen. The culinary team interprets regional, 100% organic ingredients with great creativity and a clear zero-waste philosophy. Here, sustainability and culinary excellence go hand in hand.</p> <p style="text-align:justify"><strong><u>Mizumi – 1 Toque, 12.5 Points</u></strong><br /> The Japanese lake restaurant Mizumi at the Forsthofgut brings Far Eastern cuisine to the Alps. Perfectly handcrafted nigiri, sake pairings, and rare delicacies such as inari or toro captivate guests. Authentic preparation, premium ingredients, and elegant presentation make Mizumi a truly unique culinary gem.</p> <p style="text-align:justify"> </p> <p style="text-align:justify">With 19 Gault&Millau toques across seven top restaurants, Saalfelden Leogang strengthens its position as a gourmet destination where Alpine tradition, creative cuisine, and international influences meet in perfect harmony. Gourmets can look forward to an exceptional year of fine dining in 2026.</p> <p style="text-align:justify">Notably, two restaurants — the Kirchenwirt and "dahoam" — were also awarded Michelin stars in 2025, further cementing the region’s culinary prestige.</p> <p style="text-align:justify">Once again, Saalfelden Leogang proves that it ranks among the top destinations in SalzburgerLand — not only for its natural beauty, but also for its outstanding cuisine.</p>
Skiing alone is already great fun — and the Skicircus Saalbach Hinterglemm Leogang Fieberbrunn offers the perfect playground for it. But that’s not where winter joy ends in the Saalfelden Leogang region. Here, you can train with Olympic biathlon stars, embark on romantic moonlight ski tours, or take a winter walk accompanied by a fluffy alpaca. Tip 1: Skiing in the Skicircus – 270 Kilometres of Slopes and 60 Huts for Maximum Fun In Saalfelden Leogang, skiers can look forward to a vast variety of slopes for all skill levels. The Skicircus Saalbach Hinterglemm Leogang Fieberbrunn offers 270 kilometres of slopes, 70 lifts, and 60 ski huts – pure enjoyment guaranteed. With the Ski ALPIN CARD, the adventure expands to 408 kilometres of slopes and 121 lifts, thanks to the connection with the Schmittenhöhe in Zell am See and the Kitzsteinhorn glacier in Kaprun. The Skicircus is set to open for the season on 28 November. Tip 2: Cross-Country Skiing in the Nordic Park – Biathlon Training with Olympic Stars With the Nordic Park Saalfelden at its heart, the region is a true paradise for winter sports enthusiasts. Cross-country skiers and biathletes will find endless trails framed by peaceful winter hiking paths – all with stunning views of the Steinernes Meer and the Leoganger Steinberge. In the Fun & Snow Park, kids can discover cross-country skiing in a playful and exciting way. A real highlight awaits biathlon fans on 31 January 2026: at the nordic skills day, Austrian Olympic and World Championship stars Christoph Sumann, Daniel Mesotitsch, and Julian Eberhard will share their expertise as coaches. Spots are limited, so early registration is recommended. The Nordic Park Experience (on 11 January and 15 February 2026) brings the Nordic lifestyle to the Ritzensee in Saalfelden – with a Nordic quiz rally and Kids Winter Games for the little ones, a chill-out lounge, DJ sounds, and Nordic BBQ for the grown-ups. When the lake is frozen, visitors can even go ice skating. Tip 3: Tobogganing with Stunning Views – At the Asitz or the Sinnlehenalm Whether it’s a short, family-friendly run or a longer four-kilometre descent – tobogganing in Saalfelden Leogang is pure winter fun. Glide down the Sinnlehenalm track while soaking in breathtaking views, or take the Asitz run: ride up comfortably by cable car, then speed down the four-kilometre track back to the valley. Tip 4: Cool Adventures on Ice – Ice Skating, Ice Arena, and Ice Bathing When the Ritzensee in Saalfelden freezes over, it transforms into a natural ice rink perfect for skating by day and under the stars. There’s also sporting fun at the ÖAMTC Ice Arena in Saalfelden or with traditional ice stock shooting in Leogang. Those looking for an even chillier thrill can try ice bathing – some hotels even offer special ice bathing retreats. Tip 5: Snowshoeing and Winter Hiking – With or Without an Alpaca Getting outdoors is a must in Saalfelden Leogang, even in winter. Snowshoeing is a wonderful way to explore the quiet beauty of untouched landscapes. Alternatively, choose from a range of scenic winter hiking trails. For an extra-special experience, you can book a guided alpaca walk – a heartwarming adventure for all ages. Tip 6: Romantic Horse-Drawn Sleigh Rides Through the Winter Landscape Speaking of romance: a horse-drawn sleigh ride is the perfect way to enjoy winter together. Wrapped in warm blankets, couples can snuggle up while Noriker horses pull them through the snow-covered scenery. For an extra touch of magic, moonlight rides are also available. Tip 7: Moonlight Ski Touring on the Asitz For a change of pace from downhill skiing, try a ski touring evening on the Asitz. These take place every Tuesday and Friday between December and March. Enjoy breathtaking views of the glittering valley below before stopping for a cozy hut visit. Beginners can join a SAAC Ski Touring Camp for families or first-timers (7–8 March 2026), or take part in one of the guided tours offered through the weekly “365 Days Active & Creative” programme. Tip 8: Wellness and Sauna – Warming Up in Style When it’s cold outside, there’s nothing better than relaxing in a sauna. The region’s top hotels offer beautiful, spacious wellness areas where guests can unwind after a day in the snow. And the culinary scene? Equally impressive. With 17 Gault&Millau toques across seven restaurants and two Michelin Guide addresses, Saalfelden Leogang has truly earned its reputation as a gourmet destination.
“3 Days of Jazz Saalfelden Leogang”, the compact and curated winter edition of the renowned Jazzfestival Saalfelden, will once again transform the mountain region into a vibrant laboratory for contemporary jazz. From intimate piano-cello duos to Icelandic sonic experiments, the festival showcases at unique venues just how exciting, multi-layered, and surprising jazz can sound in the here and now. Thursday, 22 January – Festival Opening with a Jazz Documentary On Thursday, 22 January, a free film evening at Kunsthaus Nexus will mark the festival’s official start. The ORF documentary “Jazz in Austria – From Liberation to a New Beginning” will be screened. Presented in German language, the film chronicles how jazz became a symbol of social renewal and cultural freedom in Austria after 1945. Friday, 23 January – Resonant Contrasts The City Parish Church of Saalfelden provides an atmospheric setting for a rare, intimate opening. The duo of Swiss pianist Colin Vallon and French cellist Vincent Courtois will present their profound album “A Simple Fall”. Their minimalist, lyrical pieces are a moving exploration of loss and the unspeakable, revealing a rare, penetrating depth. After the church performance, the festival moves to nearby Kunsthaus Nexus. Here, French trombonist, composer, and arranger Robinson Khoury takes the stage with his trio MŸA. Khoury, a sought-after sideman for artists such as Quincy Jones and Ibrahim Maalouf, combines electroacoustic soundscapes rooted in Middle Eastern scales, oscillating between world jazz, oriental post-rock, and experimental electronics. Together with Anissa Nehari (percussion, voice) and Léo Jassef (piano, synthesizer, voice), he creates an open, multi-layered band sound that is rhythmically precise and atmospherically rich. Following this, the Jazz Orchestra Vorarlberg, under the direction of Martin Eberle and Benny Omerzell, celebrates its 20th anniversary with “Sonus Variegate”. This impressive musical journey combines electronic beats with the warm fullness of brass and woodwind, shifting between sacred silence and powerful, earthy eruptions. Saturday, 24 January – Dance and Sonic Adventures Saturday begins with an unconventional, danceable, and free concert at AsitzBräu, where the rockabilly trio The Wango Tangos will kick off the early afternoon with classics by Elvis, Dolly Parton, and Johnny Cash, creating an exhilarating live atmosphere. At Kunsthaus Nexus, a contrasting programme follows: the Joanna Duda Trio presents “Delighted”, merging driving grooves, intricate textures, and improvisational freedom into a fluid, highly distinctive sound. Immediately afterwards, the Sélène Saint-Aimé String Trio transports the audience to the musical worlds of Louisiana, the Antilles, and La Réunion – an elegant, jazzy reinterpretation of cultural identity. The evening concludes with the Icelandic band ADHD, whose music oscillates between jazz, rock, ambient, and folk. The four musicians have been playing together for almost two decades, creating a captivating and virtuosic sonic cosmos full of emotional intensity. Sunday, 25 January – Sonic Poetry and a Multifaceted Finale Festival Sunday is dedicated to chamber music and historical soundscapes at the Mining and Gothic Museum Leogang. At 11:00 am, the duo Sofia Labropoulou and Christian Reiner opens with an intimate dialogue that combines improvised sounds with poetic recitation, creating narrative depth. In the afternoon, Vienna-based artist Jelena Popržan closes the festival. Using viola, voice, looper, jaw harp, and glass harp, she unfolds a stylistic kaleidoscope spanning contemporary music, jazz, world, folk, and cabaret. Her solo performance promises songs full of humour, surprises, and unforgettable moments, taking the audience on a unique and unmistakable sonic journey. A Musical Year Kick-Off Full of Curiosity and Discovery “3 Days of Jazz Saalfelden Leogang” offers a weekend of music that touches both heart and mind. Between intimate moments and eruptive energy, the festival highlights the full diversity of the contemporary jazz scene: European, international, vibrant, and always in search of the new. In line with sustainability principles, “3 Days of Jazz Saalfelden Leogang” is organised as a GREEN EVENT SALZBURG. This means the event is designed to be especially eco-friendly – from regional food and beverages to minimising waste. Image: Joanna Duda Trio by Alexandra Mieczko
