The Advent period in Saalfelden Leogang is a time of contemplation. The Christmas markets sell traditional handicrafts, the show mine plays festive tunes, and on Saint Nicholas Day the Krampus march with their eerie wooden masks (called Perchten). In Saalfelden Leogang, the weeks leading up to Christmas are called “Stoaberg Advent”. Traditional Christmas markets with authentic culture “Our celebrations in the lead-up to Christmas are more focused on authentic culture and regional character. We like our Advent to be about traditions, old customs and specialities,” says Marco Pointner, CEO of Saalfelden Leogang Tourism. Celebrations are free from flashing lights, kitschy Christmas pop music and heaving shopping streets. In keeping with this aim, the romantically decorated stands at the festive markets offer a wide variety of home-made goods: delicious punch, fruit bread, biscuits and Christmas tree decorations made from straw, wood and stone. Christmas presents from traditional shops in the region In Saalfelden Leogang you don't have to order Christmas presents on the internet. The best items are available from specialist shops, e.g., the Weissensteiner ceramics workshop in Saalfelden sells fantastic wine coolers with eye-catching marbling. Dirndls, lederhosen and other typical regional outfits are available from traditional costume stores such as “Wienerroither Tracht” and “Leder Jelinek”. Visitors to the “Alpenwerk” carpenter’s shop can purchase a variety of items carved from untreated wood. And the Christmas range at “Kreativ Laden” in Leogang features a wider selection of wooden creations, including pine containers, birdhouses, birch lanterns, or angels. Saint Nicholas, Krampus and cowbells On 6 December, Saint Nicholas Day, the saint pays a visit to the town hall square in Saalfelden – accompanied by the wild-looking Krampus figures. The following day, he makes an appearance at the village square in Leogang. While everyone looks forward to seeing jolly old Saint Nick and his sack of gifts, the Krampus hordes leave the crowds shuddering in fear. Draped with sheepskins and goatskins, wearing terrifying wooden masks with horns and making a deafening racket with their cowbells, they parade through the streets of the town. Aimed at driving away evil spirits, this ancient Alpine custom is still observed in a great many local communities in Austria and their marches attract large crowds. Kitchen knife sharpening the traditional way at Hüttschmiede forge Having your kitchen knives sharpened on the Friday before Christmas is an ancient tradition in many places and Saalfelden Leogang is no exception. In the lead up to Christmas, the grinding stones at the Hüttschmiede forge were in constant use. To thank them for their work, the people presented blacksmiths with Bachlkoch, a typical Christmas dish that’s extremely nutritious and made of flour, eggs, milk and lots of honey. The old “Bachlschneid” tradition of pre-Christmas knife sharpening still exists today. Every year on the Friday before Christmas, many local residents go to the Hüttschmiede forge to have their kitchen knives sharpened. Bringing something to eat, however, is no longer necessary these days. Blacksmiths will do this for the price of a friendly smile. Miners’ Advent, nativity scene and many more festive events The erstwhile silver mine in Leogang is now a show mine. On 22 December 2019, the people of Leogang celebrate the “Miners’ Advent” in the historic show mine as part of the Advent celebrations. Keen to rock up in style? Try arriving by horse-drawn sleigh! In the gallery itself, storytellers, orchestras and singers will perform while creating a festive, contemplative underground ambiance. The Schloss Ritzen Museum hosts an annual nativity scene. Famous nativity-scene builder Xandi Schläffer from Saalfelden, who designed the “Pinzgauer nativity scene villages” featuring the stable of Bethlehem at the centre and the Steinernes Meer plateau in the background, crafted many of the exhibited small works of art. On Wednesdays and Thursdays, the Mining and Gothic Museum in Leogang invites visitors to marvel at their expanded exhibition area, which doubled in size in summer of 2019. The Kunsthaus Nexus also features a variety-rich Christmas programme.
Rich in contrast, the Saalfelden Leogang region has a lot to offer in winter: ski slopes, cross-country skiing trails, snowshoe hiking, and even ski jumping! Here you’ll find the right accommodation to suit your needs from amongst multi-star hotels or family-oriented apartments. Keen for a bite to eat or a compelling event? Experience the charm of rustic huts, fine dining, “Jazz Days” and even ski marathons. Here there’s truly something for all interests and ages. Best of all: The Ski ALPIN CARD is completely new for the 2019/2020 winter season. With this special ski pass in hand, skiers can access ski resorts in the Schmittenhöhe in Zell am See and the glacier ski area Kitzsteinhorn Kaprun in addition to the Skicircus Saalbach Hinterglemm Leogang Fieberbrunn. That’s a total of 408 km of slopes, 121 lifts and countless attractions! But that’s not all: three new hotel openings and numerous renovations to existing accommodations mean that your stay here is more comfortable than ever before! The new Ski ALPIN CARD: three top ski areas including a glacier The “Home of Lässig”, just 70 km southwest of Salzburg, is about to become even cooler this coming 2019/2020 winter season. The 270 km of slopes at the Skicircus Saalbach Hinterglemm Leogang Fieberbrunn are about to join forces with other top ski resorts (the Schmittenhöhe ski area in Zell am See and the year-round Kitzsteinhorn glacier ski area in Kaprun) as part of the all-new Ski ALPIN CARD. This incredible new ticket network now offers access to a total of 408 km of downhill runs, 121 lifts and numerous fantastic ski huts. With ski pass at the ready, guests in Saalfelden Leogang will soon be able to ski on the snow-guaranteed slopes of the glacier at no extra charge. Guaranteed snowy conditions are especially key at the beginning and end of the ski season. During the main season, the new Ski ALPIN CARD costs 161 euros for adults for a 3-day pass (120.50 euros for young people and 80.50 euros for children) and 278 euros for 6 days (208.50 euros for young people and 139 euros for children). Sustainable skiing In kilometres, the slope breakdown at the Skicircus Saalbach Hinterglemm Leogang Fieberbrunn is as follows: 140 blue, 112 red and 18 black. There are 60 cosy huts, several snow parks, freeride parks, floodlit pistes, speed, racing and SkiMovie courses, funcross, snow trails and snow tubing to explore! But what really makes the Skicircus so cool is the sustainability of the Leoganger Bergbahnen. This cable car company has, e.g. formed co-heating partnerships with neighbouring hotels and mountain huts (in addition to adjacent spaces) based on heat recovery from the cable car’s motors. But that’s not all: the snow-making and cable car systems have been hydraulically and electrically optimised to increase efficiency. “We’ve been able to reduce energy consumption by 68 percent,” says Kornel Grundner, Managing Director of Leoganger Bergbahnen. The Steinbergbahn gondola lift, for instance, saves around 245,000 kilowatt hours annually, or 23,500 euros, while the Asitzbahn gondola lift saves 38,500 euros. For their efforts in sustainability, the Leoganger Bergbahnen were awarded the “Umwelt Blatt Salzburg” award in 2017. In 2018, the Ministry of the Environment bestowed the title “Klimaaktiv”. In 2019, the Leoganger Bergbahnen will be the first ski resort to become a partner of the “Climate and Energy Strategy Salzburg 2050”. Nordic Park for cross-country skiing and skating Non-skiers will also enjoy winters to the fullest in Saalfelden Leogang. The region offers around 150 km of cross-country skiing trails of all levels of difficulty, including two night trails (Ritzensee and Höhenloipe Grießen). In the Nordic Park at Ritzensee lake, you can learn to cross-country ski from the pros or take aim at the sport of biathlon. Meanwhile, in the Fun and Snow Park, kids can discover how to move quickly and safely on skis. The Ritzensee lake is suitable for ice skating, while the nearby surroundings are ideal for extended winter hikes. Scenic snowshoe tours and panoramic tobogganing Saalfelden Leogang is a breathtakingly gorgeous environment: A hike or snowshoe tour through the sparkling winter landscape is made all the more impressive by the rugged backdrops of the Steinernes Meer plateau and the Leoganger Steinberge mountain range. Those who enjoy skiing in solitude can head for a ski tour or take part in the weekly ski tour evening at the Asitz mountain. Tobogganing in Leogang am Asitz takes place at “Leo’s Kufengaudi”, which is floodlit until 10 pm on Tuesdays and Fridays. Alternatively, check out the 6 km natural toboggan run on the Biberg mountain in Saalfelden. Keen for something different? How about a romantic horse-drawn sleigh ride or the adrenaline rush of the Flying Fox XXL zip line over the tree tops. Over 1,600 m long, it’s one of the longest steel rope slides in the world. Participants reach speeds of up to 130 km per hour! Always delicious – sample local specialities like Persailwurzerl smoked raw sausage or Asitz boiled beef ham The people of Saalfelden Leogang truly value good food. Unsurprisingly, some of the best regional dishes are served at the ski huts and restaurants. Saalfelden Leogang is famed above all for its wealth of organic meat and sausage products: Loigomer Polnische (sausage), Knappenbrät (meat loaf), Biberger (salami), Spielberger (Viennese sausage), Persailwurzerl (smoked raw sausage), Stoana Mea Wurzn (smoked raw sausage) and Asitz Bergschinken (boiled beef ham) look exquisite and taste delicious. Katharina Auer, project manager for Saalfelden Leogang Tourism, explains the concept: “When it comes to culinary options, we value both regionalism and, of course, the very highest levels of quality. The ‘ECHT.GSUND.GUAD’ seal of quality was introduced in 2014 to allow consumers to identify the quality of our local products at a glance”. Cultural events throughout the winter calendar Countless cultural events take place in Saalfelden Leogang throughout the year. The winter season kicks off with the “Miners’ Advent” at the show mine on 22 December. Meanwhile, the “3 Days of Jazz” event from 17 to 19 January 2020 is the winter counterpart of the more famous Jazzfestival Saalfelden. Concerts take place in the Kunsthaus Nexus, the Mining and Gothic Museum in Leogang and the Stöcklalm mountain hut. Ski like they did way back when during the Nostalgia Ski World Championships in Leogang on 24 January 2020. Numerous other events round off a winter rich in culture. Three new accommodation options in addition to tried and true oases of relaxation for guests Rest, relax, and feel at ease: This is what the first-class hotel business in Saalfelden Leogang stands for. Numerous companies support sustainable recreation and a reliance on regional natural materials such as wood and stone in their facilities. There are also three new hotels in Leogang: the Rivus (Leogang’s first boutique hotel), the Stockinggut (a 4-star ski-in-ski-out hotel) and the Tannenhof (a modern, family-run 3-star guesthouse). Much has been done to celebrate the tenth anniversary of the Bergdorf Priesteregg mountain village, a hotel complex that now boasts two additional villas and the Priesteregg Bad, a luxurious wellness area with an infinity outdoor pool. The Gut Brandlhof hotel, with its brand-neutral “autohaus” was awarded the Austrian and European eco-labels for tourism in the categories “Green Hotel” and “Green Meetings & Events”. At the Gut Brandlhof hotel, sustainability revolves around the conscious use of resources, regionalism and social commitment. Keen to unwind in an especially relaxing but also environmentally aware location? Good options in Saalfelden Leogang include the WaldSPA forest spa at the Forsthofgut hotel, the thermal pool of the Riederalm Good Life Resort, the Alpine Holistic lifestyle programme at the Ritzenhof lakeside hotel and spa and the Puradies hotel, with its top-flight spa offerings. Other particularly innovative hotels in the region include the Forsthofalm hotel, the Salzburger Hof hotel, which focuses on sports and wellness, the Rupertus hotel with an organic focus, the unusual and modern/traditional mama thresl hotel, and the 4-star superior Krallerhof hotel. Event highlights 22 December 2019 Miners’ Advent at the show mine 17–19 January 2020 “3 Days of Jazz” in Saalfelden Leogang 24 January 2020 Nostalgia Ski World Championships, Leogang 15 + 16 February 2020 Saalfelden Ski Marathon 9 + 23 February 2020 Nordic Park Experience 21 March – 5 April 2020 White Pearl Mountain Days
Non-skiers can, for example, take the Asitzbahn gondola lift, use the shuttle for tobogganing or visit a museum for free. The new Saalfelden Leogang Card allows you experience more: Get active on the mountain or in the valley, take part in guided hikes in the snow, head tobogganing or enjoy free public transport with the Saalfelden city busses. The Saalfelden Leogang Card lets you use numerous services free of charge – some once per stay, some daily and others as often as you want. Many other services are discounted. Any visitor staying in a Saalfelden Leogang Card partner establishment will automatically receive the card at check-in. The card is valid from the day of arrival until the departure day (inclusive). Services included in the Saalfelden Leogang Card in winter, valid from November to April: - One free return ticket for the cable car for pedestrians on the Asitz Leogang gondola lift per stay, which also applies for return journeys for tobogganing (Caution: does not include transport of skis and snowboards) - One free journey per day in the shuttle taxi at the Biberg winter toboggan run from the car park to the Berggasthof Huggenberg inn (excl. toboggan rental) - Participation in the winter hiking programme (ski touring, winter and snowshoe hikes) - Free use of the Saalfelden Leogang cross-country skiing trails - Free use of the ice rink/Nordic Park in Saalfelden - One free admission per stay to Schloss Ritzen Museum and the Mining and Gothic Museum in Leogang - One free admission per stay to Sauna Leogang (leisure centre) and Sauna Saalfelden (Ritzensee lake) - Unlimited use of the Saalfelden city buses (nos. 61 and 62) - Discounts and benefits at various excursion destinations and other card partners in the region, e.g. ski rental at Sport Simon or the indoor golf simulator at the Gut Brandlhof hotel.
There are so many worthwhile winter activities in Saalfelden Leogang beyond the slopes. For peace and quiet, why not try a horse-drawn sleigh ride or a snowshoe tour. For a more active approach, glide silently along cross-country skiing trails through the winter landscape. The possibilities to experience the winter in all its facets are rich in variety. In Saalfelden Leogang there’s truly something for everyone. Cross-country skiing through the Nordic Park There’s more to winter than just Alpine skiing. Convince yourself by heading to the Nordic Park at Ritzensee lake in Saalfelden, an ideal place for all those keen on Nordic sports. At the Fun and Snow Park, children can learn to cross-country ski from scratch. Naturally, there are also courses for adults too, both in classic and skating style. Those with prior experience can set out to enjoy the numerous cross-country skiing trails around Ritzensee lake. Trails here range from easy to demanding and include, e.g. the “World Championship” cross-country skiing trail. This is the training ground for local pros like biathletes Simon Eder and Julian Eberhard. In total, the Saalfelden Leogang region boasts around 150 km of groomed cross-country skiing trails and one of the biggest cross-country skiing events in Austria: the Ski Marathon in February, which is open to both professionals and amateurs alike. The frozen Ritzensee lake is the ideal place for outdoor ice skating in winter. If you’re keen for a short break, relax at one of the benches situated around the lake. From here you can enjoy a quiet view of the impressive Steinernes Meer plateau covered in white. Moonlight ski touring on the Asitz mountain If you enjoy the tranquillity of the mountains, there’s no better way to enjoy the peace and quiet than ascending a mountain on touring skis and then enjoying the descent through the untracked powder snow. Ski guides in Saalfelden Leogang offer guided ski tours suitable for beginners and those unfamiliar with the terrain. Moonlit ski tours on the Asitz mountain, which take place every Tuesday and Friday are particularly worthwhile. Winter hiking – discover the snow-covered landscape on foot Hiking is also possible in winter in spite of the deep snow! Many paths are cleared in Saalfelden Leogang to allow hikers with good footwear to walk for kilometres over the snow. The 11.8 km Haidrunde circuit is a prime candidate: This beautiful hiking trail leads into the heart of the enchanting winter landscape. The trail also runs along the Ritzensee lake and through the nearby Kollingwald forest. At just 7.1 km, the Lettingrunde circuit may be shorter but it’s equally scenic. For a shorter walk through the snow, you can encircle the Ritzensee lake in just 30 minutes. Those who simply wish to sit and enjoy the landscape can take advantage of various new facilities and benches distributed around the lake for resting and relaxing. Ski jumping courses for brave beginners In Saalfelden Leogang, you can practice like the big names in ski jumping: Markus Eisenbichler, Stefan Kraft and Katharina Althaus. The ski jumping school at the Felix-Gottwald-Sprunganlage on the Biberg mountain offers two-day courses. Participants learn the basics of ski jumping: the approach, take off and safe landing in Telemark. There are 15 m, 30 m, 60 m and 85 m ski jumps available! Toboggan fun for young and old The Biberg mountain is also home to a 6 km natural toboggan run. Those who would prefer to skip the two-hour walk can take advantage of the shuttle service. Toboggan hire is available at the inns. The “Leo’s Kufengaudi” toboggan run at the Asitz mountain is easy to reach via gondola lift. On certain days of the week, both lifts feature floodlit night tobogganing. Flying Fox XXL – a zip line adventure for the entire family One of the longest and fastest rope slides in the world, the Flying Fox XXL reaches speeds of up to 130 km/h as you soar like Superman over the trees on this 1,600 m adventure. (Open from early March) Snowshoeing or a horse-drawn sleigh ride through the winter landscape To relax and slow things down, a romantic horse-drawn sleigh ride or a snowshoe hike across the snow-covered meadows is just the thing! Enjoy the winter landscape, bask in the silence and enjoy the sparkle of the snow. If you’d prefer to join a guided tour instead, you can also book a group snowshoe hike. Guided tours: for superlative winter experiences Those keen to experience winter in a group and with a guide are spoilt for choice thanks to the winter adventure programme. From December 2019 to March 2020, there are guided snowshoe and winter hikes, torchlight hikes, ski tours, horse-drawn sleigh rides and cross-country skiing taster courses for adults. Those who wish to participate in the programme must register with the respective providers by no later than 5 pm the day before. Wellness and cuisine: sustainable, relaxing, regional, delicious The outdoor offerings are not the only thing rich in contrast here: So too is the region’s wellness programme. For instance, Saalfelden Leogang is known for its first-class hotels. Some establishments are especially geared towards sustainable recreation and many feature regional natural materials such as wood and stone. In some establishments, care for the environment is particularly emphasised: guests can borrow electric cars, the energy is produced from their own biomass heating plants, wood chip plants, or composting plants and care is taken to avoid waste. In Austria, having a sense of wellbeing always includes delicious, regionally sourced cuisine. In Saalfelden Leogang, local specialties include various organic-quality sausages and other meat products. Vegetarians can look forward to a wide range of imaginative dishes on menus at nearly every establishment.
Saalfelden Leogang has something for everyone: The event calendar boasts cultural, sporting and culinary events. Old traditions such as the Miners’ Advent take place every year alongside newer events such as the Jazz Days in winter or the Ski Marathon for one and all. Miners’ Advent in the erstwhile silver mine The Miners’ Advent on 22 December 2019 is one of the true highlights of the pre-Christmas period in Saalfelden Leogang! Storytellers and musicians perform by candlelight in the oldest silver mine in the Salzburger Land region, which is today a show mine. The “Stoaberg Advent” can be reached in style by horse-drawn sleigh. 3 Days of Jazz in January This well-known jazz festival, a fixture of the summer event calendar for 40 years, now has a spin-off in winter! “3 Days of Jazz”, which takes place from 17 to 19 January 2020, features a total of nine different concerts held in different and unusual locations. Six concerts will take place at the Kunsthaus Nexus in Saalfelden and two at the Mining and Gothic Museum in Leogang. One event will even take place at the Stöcklalm mountain hut at the Asitz mountain. www.jazzsaalfelden.com/en Nostalgia Ski World Championships in Leogang Skiing as it once was: On 24 January 2020, nostalgia fans will dig their ancient wooden skis out of the cellar and channel the spirits of their great-grandparents to ski at the Schanteilift in Leogang. Ski testing days at the Asitz mountain in Leogang Test the very latest ski models at the mountain station of the Asitz and Steinbergbahn gondola lifts while receiving competent advice as well as the best tips and tricks from experts and experienced ski instructors. Dates: 4/5/11/12/18/19/25/26 January 2020. Ski Marathon – one of Austria’s biggest and best cross-country skiing events! On 15 and 16 February 2020, the 13th Ski Marathon, one of the biggest cross-country skiing events in Austria, will take place in Saalfelden Leogang. Best of all, everyone (from amateurs to professionals) is welcome to take part! Around 350 participants from all over the world travel to this event every year to compete in exciting skating-style competitions. The highlight is of course the 42 km race, but the 21 km race and the team competitions are also exciting. Children can even compete in a dedicated Mini Ski Marathon on the first day. “Nordic Park Experience” – a sustainable showcase The Nordic Park at Ritzensee lake is a haven for Nordic disciplines, including trails for cross-country skiers, skaters and biathletes, a Fun and Snow Park for children, a variety of winter hiking trails and a frozen lake for magical ice skating (weather permitting). On 9 and 23 February 2020, the Nordic Park Experience event series will welcome visitors with good music, the Kids’ Winter Games, and even a BBQ. The Nordic Park Experience is a designated Green Event, which means that special emphasis is placed on avoiding rubbish, using regional products and ensuring sustainability. Eurovision Sports 2020 The 49th Winter Games of public broadcasters in Europe will take place for the first time in Saalfelden Leogang from 14 to 21 March 2020. Radio and TV producers and employees will compete for medals in giant slalom, slalom and cross-country skiing races. White Pearl Mountain Days to round-off the season Enjoy the wonderful spring skiing during the “White Pearl Mountain Days” at the Skicircus Saalbach Hinterglemm Leogang Fieberbrunn. From 20 March to 5 April 2020, winter fans can savour the end of the season as they swish through perfect firn snow conditions and enjoy cool sounds and delicious dishes – both at the mountain huts and in the valley. www.wpmdays.at The best events in the 2019/2020 winter season 16 November 2019 Leonhardiritt procession, Leogang 13–15 December 2019 BMW IBU Biathlon World Cup, Hochfilzen 22 December 2019 Miners’ Advent at the Leogang show mine 4/5/11/12/18/19/25/26 January 2020 Ski testing days at the Asitz mountain in Leogang 17–19 January 2020 3 Days of Jazz” in Saalfelden Leogang 24 January 2020 Nostalgia Ski World Championships 9 February 2020 NORDIC PARK EXPERIENCE 15 February 2020 Mini Ski Marathon 16 February 2020 13th Saalfelden Ski Marathon 23 February 2020 NORDIC PARK EXPERIENCE 14–21 March 2020 Eurovision Sports 2020 20 March – 5 April 2020 White Pearl Mountain Days
To enjoy nature at its finest, slow things down. Generally speaking, Nordic winter sports are best enjoyed at a slower place than Alpine skiing. Participants therefore have much more time to discover the minute details of the snow-covered landscape: the sparkle of snow during cross-country skiing, the tranquillity of the winter forests during winter hiking or a splendour of the frozen lake during ice skating. In Saalfelden Leogang, the Nordic Park at Ritzensee lake is the place to experience all this at once. The choice is yours: embark on a cross-country skiing trail here, try your hand at biathlon, skate across the lake or embark on a winter hike over the creaking snow. Best of all, the infrastructure of the Nordic Park is constantly being expanded. Relax around the lake, savour good food, or simply enjoy nature in peace and quiet. Fun and Snow Park – a park with hills and jumps for junior cross-country skiers Children sometimes find cross-country skiing somewhat boring. They want action and fun: Luckily, the Fun and Snow Park offers just that. With its ups and downs, bends and dips, the facility is the centrepiece of the Nordic Park at Ritzensee lake in Saalfelden. Small wonder that children and youths enjoy learning to cross-country ski here in a playful way. The hills, jumps and curves of various different sizes allow them to experience cross-country skiing’s more action-packed side! How you cross-country ski around the lake is up to you – leisurely, strenuous or even late in the evening The network of cross-country skiing trails in Saalfelden Leogang comprises 150 km of groomed tracks. At just 4.7 km, the cross-country trail around the Ritzensee lake is comparatively short and yet quite challenging due to its varied terrain. Small wonder that Austrian biathletes like Simon Eder and Julian Eberhard can sometimes be found training along this world-championship calibre cross-country skiing trail. The Kollingwald cross-country skiing trail also starts at the Nordic Park. At just 4.9 km, this is a far easier stretch. Also worth mentioning is the 1.8 km trail at Ritzensee lake, which is open daily until 10 pm and is floodlit during the evening hours. The additional cross-country ski trails boast a range of lengths and degrees of difficulty to ensure that skiers of all strips (beginners, the advanced, athletes, and the more leisurely) find the right cross-country skiing trail to suit their needs. Biathlon taster courses for children and adults The Nordic Park also offers appropriate taster courses for all biathlon fans. Participants learn the skating technique in addition to the basics of shooting with a laser rifle. Children can take part in the weekly HSV club training. Hochfilzen, a hotspot for biathlon training, is not far from Saalfelden Leogang and is even accessible by cross-country skis. Glide over the frozen lake or toboggan on the Gugelhupf mountain The Ritzensee lake is groomed as soon as the ice is frozen thick enough and is transformed into a gorgeous natural ice rink. This clears the way for carefree moments spent gliding across the ice-covered surface on skates. The lake is illuminated until 10 pm so that guests can still do their rounds and pirouettes even at a late hour. In cool night air, a glass of hot punch tastes even better.Those who have their own toboggans can also toboggan at the Gugelhupf mountain, the Nordic Park’s toboggan run. Winter hiking – discover the snow-covered landscape on foot Hiking is also possible in winter in spite of the deep snow! Many paths are cleared in Saalfelden Leogang to allow hikers with good footwear to walk for kilometres over the snow. The 11.8 km Haidrunde circuit is a prime candidate: This beautiful hiking trail leads into the heart of the enchanting winter landscape. The trail also runs along the Ritzensee lake and through the nearby Kollingwald forest. At just 7.1 km, the Lettingrunde circuit may be shorter but it’s equally scenic. For a shorter walk through the snow, you can encircle the Ritzensee lake in just 30 minutes. Those who simply wish to sit and enjoy the landscape can take advantage of various new facilities and benches distributed around the lake for resting and relaxing. Restaurants at the Nordic Park It’s a fact: Those who spend long periods outdoors in the fresh air get hungry! Luckily there are three restaurants at the lake. From the Ritzensee restaurant, where regional and seasonal dishes are served, you have a great view of the lake. The same can be said for the now reopened Klampfererhof restaurant with its scenic lake and mountain views. For upscale tasty food, check out the Ritzenhof lakeside hotel and spa. The full Nordic Park Experience at Ritzensee lake: from the “Kids’ Winter Games” to a BBQ for everyone The Nordic Park Experience tops off the range of attractions at the Nordic Park at Ritzensee lake. These events will take place on 9 and 23 February 2020, including music, delicious cooking and a wonderful chillout lounge. Visitors can also enjoy the Kids’ Winter Games, ice disco and BBQ featuring regional ingredients. Ski Marathon with your own camp On 15 and 16 February 2020, the 13th Ski Marathon, one of the biggest cross-country skiing events in Austria, will take place in Saalfelden Leogang. Best of all, everyone (from amateurs to professionals) is welcome to take part in the Ski Marathon. Children compete in a dedicated Mini Ski Marathon on the first day. During this special weekend, adults can also take part in their own camp, which features a varied programme including participation in the Ski Marathon.
<div>Saalfelden Leogang is the ideal holiday destination for bikers regardless of whether they prefer leisurely riding, mountain biking, or downhill in the Bikepark Leogang. This diverse landscape offers tours, trails and stretches of all kinds from easy to difficult. No wonder that everyone, from world champions to beginners, loves to pedal here.</div> <div> </div> <div>“As a bike region full of variety, we want to attract professional bikers as well as beginners to explore our area on two wheels,” said Marco Pointner, CEO of Saalfelden Leogang Tourism. In order to ensure that this really works out, there is a broad spectrum of cycling offers to choose from. In 2019, Saalfelden Leogang will invest a total of approx. one million euros, which will enable it to significantly expand its range of biking trails. Ideal for everyone who doesn’t want to cycle uphill: From 2019 on, both the Asitz and the Steinbergbahn gondola lifts will run for bikers and their bikes.</div> <div> </div> <div>A bike park like no other<br /> Bikepark Leogang is also a hot spot for the Bike World Champions and Austria’s only venue for the Mercedes-Benz UCI Mountain Bike Downhill World Cup. On 5 and 6 September 2020, the UCI Mountain Bike Downhill World Championships will take place here for the second time. The many varied routes are not only designed for pros, hobby bikers love them too!</div> <div>In time for the 2019 summer holidays, the new Antonius Trail and the Steinberg Line, with the latter being an absolute highlight: ten kilometres long, a 969 metre descent and flowing curves. At a slope of roughly nine percent, it will probably have the flowiest trails in the bike park. The clearings you pass give you a unique view of the Leoganger Steinberge mountains.</div> <div>Another new addition to Bikepark Leogang for 2019 is the large asphalted pump track incl. a jump line and dirt line. You can really get your kicks here on 5,000 square metres.<br /> It will be “EPIC”, but we can’t divulge any more at this juncture.</div> <div> </div> <div>New, hand-made single trails with cool obstacles and dream views<br /> Besides the new lines in Bikepark Leogang, in 2019 there will be another two routes in Saalfelden Leogang: the Forsthof Trail and the Schwarzleo Trail. Both are narrow, hand-made single trails. The Forsthof Trail led past high crags that look like Middle Earth and crosses several streams. It is around two kilometres long and includes many North Shore elements. Slightly shorter at roughly 1.8 kilometres is the Schwarzleo Trail. It winds its way picturesquely through mixed woodland and offers a dream view of the Leoganger Steinberge mountain range in addition to tight technical curves, flowy passages and North Shore elements.</div> <div>All ages can learn to mountain bike in the Riders Playground.<br /> Kids or adults, who want to practice the trend sport of mountain biking for the first time, should make tracks to the Riders Playground at the valley station of the Leoganger Bergbahnen cable cars. With its 10,000 square metres, it’s the largest beginners’ park in Europe. In addition to its practical conveyor belt for bikes and riders, there is also a surface lift, which can be used with bikes. With each round, beginners and children can get used to the many obstacles and learn to handle the curves before trying out the action-packed courses in the bike park. Those with more experience and courage can try cool jumps at the GoPro Bagjump while also hanging on to a GoPro. The landing into the giant airbags is of course safe.</div> <div> </div> <div>Road biking on the highest mountain in Austria<br /> Saalfelden Leogang is also ideal for road bikers. For example, the Kaisertour winds along the famous Grossglockner High Alpine Road up to Austria’s highest mountain.</div> <div> </div> <div>More cycling fun thanks to e-bikes<br /> Bikes with electric power are becoming increasingly popular. Long gone are the days when only older or unfit cyclists used them. Those who simply desire to expand their realm of sporty possibilities and to experience ascending to a mountain hut, or who have a much faster partner to keep up with, will enjoy the benefits of a fully charged battery. You can travel up to 100 km on a single battery charge depending on route conditions. Saalfelden Leogang is amongst the world’s largest e-bike regions and is ideal for extended electric cycling tours thanks to its countless routes. E-bike batteries can be exchanged or recharged at countless petrol stations, partner hotels, sports shops or even at the mountain inns while bikers take a refreshment stop.</div> <div> </div> <div>Bike hotels and guides for a unique holiday experience<br /> Specialised bike hotels are fully devoted to cyclists. This includes infrastructure such as lockable bike storage rooms and loaner tools as well as a laundry washing service for worn bike clothing. Many of the hotel owners are themselves enthusiastic bikers and often join guests on tour. In any case, hotel personnel endeavour to meet and exceed the demands of cyclists and to help in route planning. The following hotels are biker-friendly: Hotel Bacher, Holzhotel Forsthofalm hotel, Lebe Frei Hotel Der Löwe, mama thresl, Good Life Resort Riederalm, Ritzenhof – Hotel und Spa am See, Biohotel Rupertus, Salzburgerhof – home of sports and Vitalhotel Saliterhof.</div> <div>Even the guides at the Elements Outdoorsports bike school are happy to help plan and are able to transform any guided tour into an adventure. At the Sport 2000 Simon and Sport Mitterer sports shops, the right equipment is available, from protective clothing to bikes, and is of course also available for hire.</div> <div> </div> <div>The best bike events in Saalfelden Leogang<br /> The Out of Bounds Festival will take place from 7 to 9 June 2019. During this time, the Mercedes-Benz UCI Mountain Bike Downhill World Cup will also be held. In addition to the competition, spectators can peak over the shoulder of bike pros and mechanics as they prepare in the Team & Expo Area.</div> <div>It’s a race to the finish at Saalfelden’s local mountain. During the 7th Biberg Auffiradler uphill race in July 2019, participants will ascend 5.5 km with a 700 m elevation gain. The goal of this competition for ambitious bikers among the guests and local residents is to reach the Berlis Hütte mountain inn.</div> <div>The BIKE festival is well known from Riva on Lake Garda and Willingen in Sauerland. In 2019, it will take place in Saalfelden Leogang for the first time from 13 to 15 September. There are various action-packed competitions for all age groups, test obstacle courses and of course plenty of opportunities to celebrate. At the BIKE exhibition, you can not only see the latest models for 2020, you can even test them yourself! It’s a must for hard-core bikers.</div> <div>All bike fans should pencil in the UCI Mountain Bike Downhill WM, which takes place from 5 to 6 September 2020 in Saalfelden Leogang.</div>
<div>Until now, it was only valid in the summer, but from 1 May 2019, the practical card will be valid all year round and now allows winter holiday-makers in Saalfelden Leogang to use the cable cars and take part in the tourism programme.</div> <div>The new Saalfelden Leogang Card lets you experience more. Holiday-makers can get active on the mountain or in the valley, take part in guided hikes in the snow or in summer weather, partake in the cultural programme, and enjoy bathing or tobogganing. The Saalfelden Leogang Card lets you use over ten services free of charge in summer and winter – some once per stay, some daily and others as often as you want. Many other services are discounted. Any visitor staying in a Saalfelden Leogang Card partner company automatically receives the card on check-in. The card is valid from the day of arrival until the departure day (inclusive).</div> <div> </div> <div>Services included in the Saalfelden Leogang Card in summer, valid from May to October:<br /> - One free return ticket for the cable car with the Asitz-Leogang gondola lift and the Saalbach Hinterglemm cable cars per day (each of the 5 summer cable cars incl. bike transport) (except for night and special trips)<br /> - Unlimited return tickets for the cable car every day with the chair lift at Biberg (except for use of the toboggan run)<br /> - Unlimited free entry to the Leogang/Sonnrain and Saalfelden/Obsmarkt swimming pools and the natural bathing complex at Ritzensee lake<br /> - Weekly summer programme of experiences (guided hikes, herbal workshops and much more)<br /> - One free admission per stay to Schloss Ritzen Museum and the Mining Museum in Leogang<br /> - One free admission per stay to Sauna Leogang (leisure centre) and Sauna Saalfelden (Ritzensee lake)<br /> - Unlimited use of the Saalfelden city buses (nos. 61 and 62)<br /> - Unlimited use of public transport in Pinzgau from 1 May to 31 October (bus and rail)</div> <div> </div> <div>Services included in the Saalfelden Leogang Card in winter, valid from November to April:<br /> - One free return ticket for the cable car for pedestrians on the Asitz Leogang gondola lift per stay, which also applies for return journeys for tobogganing (does not include transport of skis and snowboards)<br /> - One free journey per day in the shuttle taxi at the Biberg winter toboggan run from the car park to the Berggasthof Huggenberg inn (excl. toboggan rental)<br /> - Participation in the winter hiking programme (ski touring, winter and snow-shoe hikes)<br /> - Free use of the Saalfelden Leogang cross-country skiing trails<br /> - Free use of the ice rink/Nordic Park in Saalfelden<br /> - One free admission per stay to Schloss Ritzen Museum and the Mining Museum in Leogang<br /> - One free admission per stay to Sauna Leogang (leisure centre) and Sauna Saalfelden (Ritzensee lake)<br /> - Unlimited use of the Saalfelden city buses (nos. 61 and 62)</div> <div> </div> <div>Benefits with many other partners and attractions<br /> In addition, holders of the Saalfelden Leogang Card also receive discounts and benefits at various destinations and other card partners in the region. In winter, this includes discounts on ski rental from Sport Simon or the Indoor Golf Simulator at the Gut Brandlhof hotel. In summer, among other things, holders enjoy discounted entry to the Seisenbergklamm gorge, a day ticket for the Grossglockner High Alpine Road, a paraglider flight, the Flying Fox XXL and much more.</div> <div>For further information, see <a href="https://www.saalfelden-leogang.com/en/region-experience/Saalfelden-Leogang-Card">https://www.saalfelden-leogang.com/en/region-experience/Saalfelden-Leogang-Card</a></div> <div> </div>
<div>Many golfers dream of teeing off in front of a picturesque mountain backdrop. In Saalfelden Leogang, you can ideally combine your golfing holiday with hiking tours, cultural highlights and relaxed spa days. The region boasts two 18-hole golf courses: the Gut Brandlhof Golf Club course involves several crossings of the River Saalach, while the Urslautal Golf Club stands out thanks to its large driving range and two golf academies.</div> <div> </div> <div>Gut Brandlhof Golf Club – where the mountain river crosses the fairways<br /> The first thing that catches the eye about the course at the Gut Brandlhof hotel is the wonderful old trees. Snaking through the middle of this 18-hole course is the Saalach, a wild mountain river that you might have to cross as many as six times depending on your tee shot. And coupled with the stunning views of the craggy mountain giants, this adds up to a next-level Alpine golfing experience. There’s also good news for all dog owners, as golfers are allowed to bring their four-legged friends along provided they are on a leash. In addition, the 18-hole course is accompanied by a 6-hole short course for beginners. Here, local head pro John Seymour – one of the top 50 professional golfers in Europe – works together with learners and provides individual courses at the covered tees on the driving range.</div> <div>If poor weather conditions should make it impossible to head out onto the course for a round, golf enthusiasts can head inside the Gut Brandlhof hotel. This is home to the Indoor Golf Performance Center, a cutting-edge indoor golf simulation system that is open 365 days a year. After enjoying a great day’s golf, you can make for the first-class wellness area in the 4-star superior Gut Brandlhof hotel to relax and recuperate.<br /> www.brandlhof.com</div> <div> </div> <div>Urslautal Golf Club – a golf course with a breathtaking all-round panorama<br /> The Urslautal Golf Club wows guests with its stunning 360-degree mountain panorama including sights such as the Steinernes Meer massif, its location on a high plateau near Saalfelden and its 5,000 square metre driving range that is one of the best in Austria. With three additional practice holes and two golf academies, this is ideal place for beginners to learn and for advanced golfers to train: the Urslautal Golf Academy and the Systema Golf Academy offer private and group instruction up to the level of a golfing permit, as well as golf taster courses and instruction for all the family. The 18-hole course features roughs, water obstacles, environmentally sensitive areas and bunkers. As there are few trees on the greens, you have a clear view – not only for putting, but also for taking in the wonderful scenery. Having completed your round, you can head for the terrace of the Remise Golf Restaurant that also overlooks the Steinernes Meer plateau.<br /> www.golf-urslautal.at</div> <div> </div> <div>Après-golf – relaxing at the club restaurants and golf hotels<br /> Anyone looking to finish their day by paying a traditional visit to the 19th hole – the club restaurant – will be delighted with the quality regional cooking on offer at both golf clubs. The best way to relax is at one of the partner hotels, for example with the “golf in & out” service at the Gut Brandlhof hotel. The excellent Krallerhof, Ritzenhof and Puradies hotels are also specially tailored to golfers and are only a few short kilometres away from the tees. If you need more than the two golf courses in Saalfelden Leogang, then the region nevertheless provides a terrific base as there are a further 17 outstanding courses within a radius of around 70 kilometres.</div> <div> </div>
<div>Put one foot in front of the other and enjoy the landscape and the freedom of movement in the fresh air. Hiking can be simply magical, especially when travelling through such a contrast-rich region like Saalfelden Leogang. You can experience all of this on the many hiking and running trails through the imposing mountain landscapes of the grass-covered mountains, the Steinernes Meer plateau and Leoganger Steinberge mountains. For those who want to travel up a bit higher, there are climbing routes and via ferratas in all degrees of difficulty. Families often feel perfectly at home on the Asitz, a mountain for all the senses.</div> <div> </div> <div>“Simply hiking” – a no-frills concept<br /> Moving in nature doesn’t require a whole lot of trappings. Lace up a sturdy pair of shoes and be on your way. With this thought in mind, and the fact that hiking has proven positive effects on your health, Saalfelden Leogang has developed the concept of “simply hiking.” The idea behind this concept is simple: hiking alone is more than enough. For this reason we’ve made a conscious decision to forgo action-packed themed trails. “Nothing should distract hikers from what really matters,” says Marco Pointer, CEO of Saalfelden Leogang Tourism. “We want to inspire our guests to get out there and to enjoy themselves in nature. We want to focus on getting away from everyday routine and simply hiking.” A range of studies proves the health benefits of hiking. Dr. Arnulf Hartl from Paracelsus Medizinische Privatuniversität Salzburg says: “Hiking has been proven to have positive effects on respiratory illnesses, back problems and many of the other illnesses caused by civilisation. We need nature – it’s in our blood.” In times when the range of leisure activities is virtually endless, people welcome the simplicity of hiking. Setting off, enjoying nature and leaving their complex everyday lives behind.</div> <div> </div> <div>Hiking pole sharing and forest swings<br /> Along the many hiking trails, local craftspeople have built practically useful installations. For example, there are 360-degree wooden benches where hikers can take a relaxing break from hiking while enjoying the landscape from all angles, a panorama view of your own choosing, so-to-speak. By contrast, the cast-iron forest swings invite hikers to look up to the treetops and the sky above it. Of course, you can also just have a relaxed swing and listen to the forest sounds – and intended. Simply leave your mobile phones in your backpack or pocket and enjoy nature in its purest form, not through the display of a smartphone. The opportunity to take the very best holiday photo is still readily available in Saalfelden Leogang at special photo points where hikers can shoot the perfect panorama. Hiking pole sharing is one extremely practical idea. At the starting points of the trails, hiking pole stations have been erected to allow any hiker to select the right wooden hiking pole, take it along for the journey, and leave it where they found it or at another such station.</div> <div> </div> <div>Asitz, a mountain for all the senses for families, those seeking peace and now also for fans of culture<br /> Experience nature with all your five senses. This is the concept behind the “mountain for all the senses”, the Asitz in Leogang. At the middle station of the Leoganger Bergbahnen cable cars, the Sinne adventure park leads into the worlds of feeling, hearing, tasting, smelling and seeing via 30 stations. Young and old can walk barefoot over the soft Alpine pasture, take in the aroma of wild herbs and Alpine plants in many places, and hear the voice of the forest. Special singing bowls let you not only hear but feel certain notes. Kids can bake flatbread at the Sinne park adventure park, or paint, do crafts or make their own t-shirt.</div> <div>New in summer 2019 on the Asitz mountain: the outdoor theatre and entertainment islands or listening stations where guests can listen to excerpts of special TONspur concerts.</div> <div> “Silent water” is an additional service at Asitz: loungers, panoramic terraces, Kneipp area and a swimming platform in the Speichersee reservoir invite guests to relax and enjoy the view. The silent service is rounded off by the new chapel that is being built beside the park.</div> <div>Those who are not so mobile or travelling with small children will be delighted, as the Asitz, and for the first time the Steinbergbahn gondola lift are in operation all summer.</div> <div> </div> <div>Family fun at the summer toboggan run or the world’s longest flying-fox zip line<br /> There are many ways to get down a mountain: relaxed in the cable car, on foot via a hiking trail or with a bit more adrenaline. The “Leoklang” summer toboggan run in Leogang is an example of the latter. Starting from the mountain station at 1,800 m, it leads through the Pinzgau mountains some 400 m downward. In Saalfelden, at the Biberg there is another summer toboggan run with a total length of 1.6 km! But to really fly, visitors should check out the Flying Fox XXL on the Asitz. It’s one of the longest (1,600 m) and fastest (up to 130 km/h) steel rope slides in the world. Witness as the world flies by as you fly like superman over the trees. This is fun at its best for the whole family.</div> <div> </div> <div>Sense the forest: hikes in the bright, sunny woodlands on the forest magic tour<br /> Forests have their own special charms: sometimes mystical and scary, but also kitschy beautiful and enchanting. As part of the summer adventure programme, guests can discover the forests of the region in various ways. Whether swimming in the woods, hiking in the bright, sunny woodlands or on a forest magic tour, here there is something to suit every taste.</div> <div>The “Einatmen. Wald spüren. Ausatmen.” (Inhale, Feel the Forest, Exhale) offer includes seven overnight stays, the Saalfelden Leogang Card, a hiking map, hiking socks, an Alpine snack, two hikes, and a TEM (Traditional European Medicine) workshop. Stay in a bed and breakfast from 249 euros or in a 4-star hotel with half board from 564 euros.</div> <div> </div> <div>Hiking without luggage<br /> Spending days on your feet is wonderful but the longer you’re gone the heavier your pack. For exactly such tours, there is a practical luggage transport service in Saalfelden Leogang. This will allow you to carry just a light backpack in the mountains as you enjoy the magnificent views. Meanwhile your heavier luggage will be safely transported for you to the next stage of your hike.</div> <div> </div> <div>Plenty of route for joggers, trail runners and Nordic walkers<br /> In Saalfelden Leogang, every runner will find his or her perfect stretch for everything from endurance training to starting a new jogging routine. The region features a substantial network of trail running and Nordic walking trails with 18 different routes. All told they total 120 km! There are also two high-altitude routes and a mountain running stretch.</div> <div> </div> <div>A climbing area that even professionals will adore<br /> Together, the Loferer, Leoganger Steinberge mountains, and Steinplatte mountains form the Steinberge mountain-sports region, a popular climbing area known far and wide with more than 1,000 sport climbing and alpine multi-rope routes to train. At 45 rope lengths, the “Pinzgawurm” is one of the longest climbing routes in the Alps. In addition, the region also boasts five climbing halls and a total of twelve via ferratas. Various climbing courses, for beginners to experience climbing for the first time, are also available for families.</div> <div><br /> Hiking events in the Saalfelden Leogang region:<br /> 22-23 June 2019 Stoabergmarsch24 – 24 hour hike<br /> 29 June 2019 Bergwelten Wandertag</div> <div> </div> <div> </div>
