With a huge variety of winter attractions to choose from, "The way I want" is the motto of our guests. From ski slopes to cross-country skiing trails, from ski jumping to snowshoe hiking, from luxury hotels to apartments for families, from rustic farm fare to fine dining and from jazz days to sports events, Saalfelden Leogang has it all. The SKI ALPIN CARD provides access to a vast range of skiing facilities: In total 408 km of slopes, 121 lifts and cable cars and countless attractions are available to winter sports enthusiasts. In addition to the slopes of Skicircus Saalbach Hinterglemm Leogang Fieberbrunn, the ski pass also includes the ski resort Schmittenhöhe in Zell am See and the Kitzsteinhorn Kaprun glacier ski resort. Three fantastic ski areas and a glacier – the Ski ALPIN CARD, the new ALPIN CARD NAVIGATOR and measures for a safe 2020/2021 season Skicircus Saalbach Hinterglemm Leogang Fieberbrunn is situated around 70 kilometres south-west of Salzburg and refers to itself as "Home of Lässig" (home of laid-back). For good reason. The sheer size of the area covered by the Ski ALPIN CARD is as impressive as it is laid-back. In addition to the 270 km of slopes that make up the Skicircus, card holders also have access to the Schmittenhöhe in Zell am See and the Kitzsteinhorn glacier ski resort in Kaprun. Thus the combined ticket opens the doors to 408 kilometres of downhill runs, 121 lifts and cable cars and numerous ski huts – a paradise for winter sports enthusiasts. For guests staying in Saalfelden Leogang, having access to the ski resort on the glacier at Kitzsteinhorn mountain in Kaprun is a great advantage, especially at the beginning of the season. This means guaranteed snow throughout, at no extra cost. During the main season, the 3-day Ski ALPIN CARD costs €169 for adults (adolescents €126.50, children €84.50) and the 6-day card is €292 (adolescents €219, children €146). New this year is the ALPIN CARD NAVIGATOR. Following the slogan "the app is the map", the NAVIGATOR acts as a guide across the entire area covered by the three premium ski resorts. The app also provides information on ski runs, lifts and cable car journeys as well as bus connections, and offers guidance on the degree of difficulty of the desired skiing route. This means visitors can get the very best out of their ski resort. The 2020/21 ski season has some special conditions attached to it. All resorts included in the ALPIN CARD combined ticket for Skicircus Saalbach Hinterglemm Leogang Fieberbrunn, Schmittenhöhe Zell am See and Kitzsteinhorn Kaprun have adapted well to the altered situation resulting from COVID-19, thereby ensuring guests can feel relaxed and safe. The catalogue of measures encompasses structured queuing areas, sanitizing measures, information signs and much more. The situation is continuously evaluated, with measures adjusted accordingly. For more information, visit https://www.saalfelden-leogang.com/en/region-experience/ski-and-snowboard/Getting-through-the-winter-safely-together Sustainability on and off the slopes Sustainability and skiing – can the two go together? At Skicircus Saalbach Hinterglemm Leogang Fieberbrunn we continue to implement initiatives to make this combination possible. These include the co-heating partnerships between the Leoganger Bergbahnen cable car company and the adjoining hotels and mountain inns. The partnerships allow adjacent rooms to be heated through heat recovery from the cable car motors. Furthermore, the snow cannons and cable car systems have been hydraulically and electrically optimised to increase their efficiency. "These measures have enabled us to massively reduce our energy consumption," says Kornel Grundner, managing director of Leoganger Bergbahnen. "The Steinbergbahn gondola lift now consumes around 245,000 kilowatt hours less per year, equating to a saving of €23,500, while the Asitzbahn gondola lift has achieved a saving of €38,500 annually." The efforts have been recognised: Leoganger Bergbahnen was bestowed the "Umwelt Blatt Salzburg" sustainability award in 2017 and credited by the Austrian Ministry of the Environment for its commitment to climate protection in 2018. In 2019, Leoganger Bergbahnen was also the first ski resort to become a partner of the "Climate and Energy Strategy Salzburg 2050". This means it's even more fun to explore the 140 km of blue runs, 112 km of red and 18 km of black runs, as well as the 60 homely mountain huts, the snow parks, freeride parks and floodlit pistes, the speed, racing and SkiMovie courses, and the funcross, snow trail and snow tubing facilities in the Skicircus Saalbach Hinterglemm Leogang Fieberbrunn. Wide range of winter sports, such as cross-country skiing, biathlon, ice skating and winter hiking "The way I want" is the motto for winter guests in Saalfelden Leogang. The region also offers plenty of winter fun for those who prefer not to ski. For example on the cross-country skiing trails: Around 150 km of cross-country trails covering the full spectrum of difficulty levels are waiting to be explored. There's even two night-time cross-country tracks – the Ritzensee lake trail and the Grießen high-altitude trail. Those who want to find out if they can keep steady and aim well after cross-country skiing can also try their hand at biathlon in the Nordic Park by Ritzensee lake. Younger cross-country skiers will find plenty to amuse them at the Fun and Snow Park, where they can learn how to move with speed and confidence on the thin skis. With its well-tended natural ice, Ritzensee lake itself is ideal for ice skaters. It's a wonderful location for gliding along as you admire the panorama of the winter landscape. Winter adventures away from the slopes – tobogganing, winter hiking and horse-drawn sleigh rides One of the attributes that make the Saalfelden Leogang region so magical is its abundance of panoramic views. With their jagged rock faces, the Leoganger Steinberge mountain range and the Steinernes Meer plateau are simply breathtaking. What better way to enjoy the stunning mountain scenery than during an extended winter hike or a snowshoe tour, for example at Asitz mountain. Anyone wanting to explore the pristine winter landscape on skis can go on a ski tour with a local skiing and mountain guide or join one of the weekly ski tour evenings on Asitz mountain. Those who long for a more adrenalin-fuelled experience can head to "Leo’s Kufengaudi" toboggan run on Asitz mountain – on Tuesdays and Fridays it's even open at night. The six-kilometre natural toboggan run on Biberg in Saalfelden is open from Tuesday to Sunday and guarantees ultimate tobogganing fun, both day and night. From March 2021, the Flying Fox XXL will be in operation again, enabling visitors to soar above the treetops for 1600 metres. It's one of the longest zip wires in the world and reaches a speed of up to 130 kilometres per hour. For those in search of a more romantic winter experience, a leisurely ride in a horse-drawn sleigh is just the thing. Saalfelden Leogang Card – many advantages for those who prefer not to ski Every guest staying in a partner establishment of the Saalfelden Leogang Card is handed a complimentary Saalfelden Leogang visitors' card. This provides access to a wide range of experiences. Non-skiers can take the Asitzbahn or Steinbergbahn gondola lifts, use the shuttle to go tobogganing on the Biberg, visit a museum for free and much more. The card is useful for activities on the mountain and in the valley, from guided hikes in the snow to tobogganing fun, and even opens the doors of Saalfelden's town buses. https://www.saalfelden-leogang.com/en/region-experience/Saalfelden-Leogang-Card Exclusive dining in Saalfelden Leogang – excellent cuisine with organic produce Enjoying a perfect holiday in Saalfelden Leogang also means indulging your taste buds. That's guaranteed, as great importance is placed on the quality of food in this region. A key factor for this is the local sourcing of produce. This includes excellent meat and sausage products, as well as cheese, bread, honey, eggs and spirits, for which the region is well known. "When it comes to food, it's not just about whether it's locally produced, we also like to ensure it's of top quality. That's why we introduced the quality seal 'ECHT.GSUND.GUAD' in 2014. This means the quality of our products can be ascertained at a glance," says Katharina Auer, project leader for Saalfelden Leogang Tourism. This exceptional quality of the local produce is also mirrored in the region's gastronomy: With a total of 15 Gault Millau toques split between 7 establishments, the richly diverse Saalfelden Leogang region is no stranger to exclusive dining. Our museums are well worth a visit The Schloss Ritzen Museum in Saalfelden 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. New accommodation options in addition to tried and true oases of relaxation for guests Rest and relaxation with a homely touch – that's the maxim of our first-class accommodation providers in Saalfelden Leogang. Numerous establishments place emphasis on sustainable holidaying. The use of locally sourced natural materials such as wood and stone in the interior décor also provides a relaxed atmosphere. New hotels in Leogang include the Rivus, which is the first boutique hotel in Leogang, while the luxurious Senhoog holiday homes are also a brand new addition to the accommodation offer. Lots of renovation work has taken place in the Bergdorf Priesteregg mountain village, which now has another two villas as well as the Priesteregg Bad, a luxury wellness area with an outdoor infinity pool. At Hotel Der Löwe, several rooms and suites have been refurbished, while at Gut Brandlhof hotel and the affiliated brand-neutral car dealership around €1.2 million have been invested in renovation work. 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 (subject to change) 22–24 January 2021 “3 Days of Jazz” in Saalfelden Leogang 13 March – 4 April 2021 White Pearl Mountain Days
Non-skiers can, for example, take the Asitzbahn or Steinbergbahn gondola lift, use the shuttle for tobogganing or visit a museum for free. The 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 Asitzbahn or Steinbergbahn 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 at lake Ritzensee 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.
Experience winter on or off the ski slopes – you can do both in Saalfelden Leogang. Create your favourite kind of holiday, just the way you want it. In Saalfelden Leogang, winter has many faces – enjoy the calm and serenity of a horse-drawn sleigh ride, explore the region with a snowshoe tour, or get your heart rate going as you glide along a cross-country skiing trail. Saalfelden Leogang is one of Austria's leading cross-country skiing destinations Downhill skiing is the classic among the winter sports. But in the Saalfelden Leogang region, a perfect day in the snow can also be enjoyed away from the ski slopes. Highly recommended, for example, is an excursion to the Nordic Park by Ritzensee lake in Saalfelden. Here, fans of Nordic sports will find everything their heart desires. At the heart of the area lies the Fun and Snow Park, where the kids can develop their enthusiasm for cross-country skiing. This season, the Fun and Snow Park features new steep curves and ski jumps, as well as a specially designed slalom course, which enables children to gain cross-country skiing skills in a playful manner. Of course, there are also training sessions for adults, which teach both the classic and skating technique. Those who are already confidently under way on their cross-country skis will find numerous prepared trails around Ritzensee lake. These range from easy to very demanding and include the World Championships trail, which is also used for training by local professional athletes such as Simon Eder and Julian Eberhard. In total, around 150 km of groomed cross-country skiing trails are available to guests during winter. Saalfelden Leogang is one of Austria's four leading cross-country skiing destinations. This is based on the following criteria: diversity of routes, professionally prepared cross-country trails with guaranteed snow and accommodation providers that cater for cross-country skiers. The region meets all these criteria with ease. The frozen Ritzensee lake is also a wonderful location for ice skating, with benches dotted around the shores for a little rest in between. And don't forget to allow plenty of time to fully appreciate the snow-covered landscape nestled against the impressive backdrop of the Steinernes Meer plateau. Moonlight ski touring at Asitz mountain Remoteness and freedom – these are the factors that delight ski touring fans. In the Saalfelden Leogang region, the moonlight ski tours on Asitz mountain are especially memorable. Available every Tuesday and Friday, the Asitz evening ski tours are a convivial occasion, inspired by the motto "hike up, ski down and stop off for a sociable drink in between". Those wanting to explore areas of untouched winter landscape should book a trained skiing and mountain guide. Relax while enjoying a winter hike with a visit to the new woodland swing It is as simple as it is beautiful – all you need for a winter hike is good, sturdy footwear and off you go. Many of the paths in Saalfelden Leogang are cleared, which means you can easily stroll through the snow for miles. Why not try the 11.8-kilometre Haidrunde circuit? This runs along Ritzensee lake and then leads through the magical winter landscape of the nearby Kollingwald forest. The 7.1-kilometre Lettingrunde circuit is significantly shorter, but just as delightful. And if you just have half an hour to spare for a walk, we recommend the path around Ritzensee lake. All three routes take you past the new woodland swing in Kollingwald forest at Ritzensee lake. This is an ideal opportunity to take a seat, relax, relish the peace and quiet of the forest and simply enjoy a different perspective for once: Instead of admiring the valley, your gaze sweeps up into the treetops and the sky beyond. There's no better way to forget everyday stresses and strains. Toboggan fun for young and old Going tobogganing is an absolute must for any winter holiday. The exciting descent is best earned by first tackling the two-hour ascent up the Biberg. The reward for this is an exhilarating ride along the six-kilometre natural toboggan run. But if you really can't wait to get tobogganing, you might be better off using the shuttle service. Hire sledges are available at the local inns. Accessible by gondola lift, the toboggan run "Leo’s Kufengaudi" on Asitz mountain can also be reached in comfort. For an especially memorable experience, try tobogganing at night. This is available on specific days, thanks to floodlights on both runs. Flying Fox XXL – flying has never been this easy From the beginning of March 2021, visitors to the region can glide through the sky and enjoy a very special view of the Leogang mountainscape. The Flying Fox XXL is one of the longest zip lines in the world and guarantees fun and a small adrenaline kick for all the family. Travelling at up to 130 kilometres per hour, the zip line covers 1600 metres, running from Asitz middle station right to the other side of Schwarzleotal valley. Experience pure nature – travel on foot with snowshoes or ride in a horse-drawn sleigh Those longing for relaxation and a romantic break from the everyday hustle and bustle will love travelling through the winter wonderland in a sleigh drawn by Noriker horses. It's the perfect way to fully appreciate the beautiful surroundings. The same goes for snowshoe-hiking, which allows you to take in the stillness and simply immerse yourself in the experience. Those who prefer to leave the route planning to a local can book a group snowshoe hike and let a guide take care of it. Winter adventure programme – with guide You can explore the winter landscape on your own, or in a group with a guide: From December 2020 to March 2021, there are guided snowshoe and winter hikes, torchlight hikes, ski tours, horse-drawn sleigh rides and cross-country skiing taster courses for adults. Those wishing to take part in an event need to register with the relevant providers by 4 p.m. on the day before. Enjoy comfort and relaxation in excellent and sustainably managed hotels Saalfelden Leogang is known for its first-class hotels. Especially in winter, after a day of skiing or an outing to enjoy the winter landscape, guests appreciate the opportunity to end the day with a wellness treatment. Many of the region's establishments feature exceptional wellness and spa facilities, where sustainable rest and recreation are the maxim. Locally sourced natural materials such as wood and stone often feature in the interior design, generating a feeling of wellbeing. Some of the region's hotels place a strong emphasis on environmental protection, with initiatives including the provision of electric cars for guests. In-house biomass heating plants, wood chip heating systems and composting plants are used to provide energy. Great care is also taken to minimise the amount of refuse that is produced. A holiday in Saalfelden Leogang would not be complete without the associated culinary delights. The numerous hosts in the mountain inns and huts and the restaurants follow local traditions and mainly cook with regionally sourced produce. Local specialities include a range of organic sausages and other meat products. And the region is certainly no stranger to exclusive dining. A total of 15 Gault Millau toques have been awarded to 7 local establishments. Benefit with the Saalfelden Leogang Card The Saalfelden Leogang Card is the ideal way to experience the region's diverse winter programme. It provides access to activities on the mountain and in the valley, from guided hikes in the snow to tobogganing fun, and even opens the doors of Saalfelden's town buses. The Saalfelden Leogang Card lets you use numerous services free of charge – some once per stay, some daily. 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).
The Leoganger Steinberge mountain range and the Steinernes Meer plateau provide a stunning panorama for winter sports enthusiasts. Practising Nordic winter sports brings you even closer to nature. Moving through the snow-covered landscape at your own pace allows time to appreciate the surroundings – the glittering of the snow beside the cross-country skiing trail, the hushed calm of the woods during a winter hike and the gleam of the frozen lake as you skate across its surface. In Saalfelden Leogang, all these winter sports can be enjoyed in one place, the Nordic Park at Ritzensee lake. From here you can set out on one of the cross-country skiing trails or try your hand at biathlon. A winter hike is particularly atmospheric, or why not slip your feet into a pair of ice skates and glide across the lake – whatever takes your fancy. The Fun and Snow Park – even more enjoyment and action for young cross-country skiers Steep curves, ski jumps and a specially designed slalom course – the new amenities in the Fun and Snow Park will ensure the coming winter season is packed with fun and action for those who are just discovering cross-country skiing for themselves. That's important, as beginners in cross-country skiing can't yet cover great distances and therefore benefit from shorter routes that offer plenty of interest and diversity. That's exactly what you'll find at the Fun and Snow Park. The facility is also the centre of the Nordic Park at Ritzensee in Saalfelden. Here visitors can develop their cross-country skiing skills in a playful manner, on different-sized mounds, jumps and bends, with the occasional detour into deep snow. Out and about in one of Austria's leading cross-country skiing destinations – from leisurely to athletic, and even late in the evening Saalfelden Leogang is one of Austria's four leading cross-country skiing destinations. This is based on the following criteria: Diverse routes with various degrees of difficulty and professionally prepared cross-country trails with guaranteed snow. Add to this accommodation providers that cater for cross-country skiers and offer corresponding wellness facilities, direct access to the cross-country skiing trails and a varied culinary menu. With 150 kilometres of prepared cross-country skiing trails, Saalfelden Leogang fully meets these criteria. The region's cross-country trails are so diverse in terms of length and degree of difficulty that everyone, whether beginner or advanced, whether they prefer a leisurely or a challenging pace, will quickly find the route that suits them best. The 4.7-kilometre cross-country trail around Ritzensee lake covers a wide range of terrains and is ideal for athletic cross-country skiers. With a bit of luck, you might meet Austrian biathletes such as Simon Eder and Julian Eberhard on this World Championships trail – they both train here. The Kollingwald cross-country skiing trail also starts in the Nordic Park. It is 4.9 kilometres long and considerably easier to complete. The shortest trail by Ritzensee lake, just 1.8 kilometres in length, is open daily until 10 p.m. and is equipped with flood lighting to enable use in the evenings. Biathlon taster courses for children and adults For those who want to gain additional athletic skills while on the track there are also biathlon taster courses available in the Nordic Park. Shooting provides an ideal diversion from the uniform movements of cross-country skiing. In addition to the sport's typical skating technique, the biathlon course teaches participants what they must take account of when shooting with a laser rifle. Children can also participate in the weekly HSV club training. Equipped with cross-country skis, you can even go all the way to Hochfilzen, the home of biathlon. Ice skate across Ritzensee lake and toboggan on Gugelhupf mountain Every winter, ice skating fans can barely wait for Ritzensee lake to thoroughly freeze to a depth that will allow the necessary preparations to be made for the skating. The lake then becomes a wonderful natural ice rink. It is illuminated until 10 p.m., enabling visitors to glide across the lake and practice their pirouettes until late in the evening. And those who have come equipped with a sledge will also find a suitable hill for tobogganing in the Nordic Park – the Gugelhupf mountain. Winter hiking through the snow-covered landscape and to the new woodland swing Hiking can also be enjoyed in winter and is a particularly wonderful way to experience nature. Saalfelden Leogang offers its visitors numerous maintained paths, so sturdy footwear is all that's required to enjoy strolling through the snow for miles. The new woodland swing in Kollingwald forest is a very rewarding destination. The swing is situated along the 11.8-kilometre Haidrunde circuit. Those following this route will encounter magical winter landscapes along the shore of Ritzensee lake and in Kollingwald forest. A little shorter but just as delightful is the Lettingrunde circuit, at 7.1 kilometres. And for those who want to be under way for just half an hour we recommend the path around Ritzensee lake. This also features various new installations and benches for sitting and relaxing. Culinary attractions at the Nordic Park All this exercise in the fresh air calls for the occasional stop-off at an inn. There are three restaurants situated by the lake. Restaurant Ritzensee offers regional and seasonal cuisine and a lovely view of the lake. An excellent spot to warm up in with a cup of tea and a slice of home-made cake is the Klampfererhof restaurant. Alternatively, visitors can indulge in the Alpine cuisine on offer at the Ritzenhof lakeside hotel and spa.
Saalfelden Leogang is the ideal holiday destination for bikers regardless of whether they prefer leisurely riding, mountain biking, or downhill in the Epic 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. “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. To make sure that everything runs smoothly, the range of biking-related offers is constantly being expanded. In the previous few year alone, around one million euros was invested in infrastructure expansion alone! Set your wheels and your pulse racing with four new lines & trails, a new asphalt pump track featuring a jump and dirt line as well as the opening of the Steinbergbahn gondola lift for summer operation! In partnership with Saalbach Hinterglemm and Fieberbrunn, the Saalfelden Leogang Bike Region is now the largest biking region in Austria with seven mountains, nine cable cars and over 70 kilometres of lines and trails. Now there’s even better news for all those who prefer downhill to uphill riding: since last summer, both the Asitz and Steinbergbahn gondola lifts happily transport both bikes and bikers! The Epic Bikepark Leogang: where world champions meet 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. From 7-11 October, the 2020 UCI Mountain Bike World Championships will be held here for the second time since 2012. The title battles in Downhill, Cross-Country and E-Mountain Biking will be happening. Good news: the bike park’s numerous and varied routes are not reserved for professionals alone! Those just getting their start in the sport will also feel right at home! Last year, the new Antonius Trail and the Steinberg Line by FOX were opened. The latter was an absolute highlight featuring 10 km of tracks, 969 m of descent, and flowing curves. Its approx. 9% gradient makes it the bike park’s most flowy line! Open spaces along the way provide riders with panoramic views of the Leoganger Steinberge mountain range. Meanwhile, the Hot Shots-fired by GoPro attraction, which has been converted into a fun jump line, is all new in 2020. Those who love big air will feel immediately at home here. Now open for its second season in the Epic Bikepark Leogang, the large asphalt pump track, which features both a jump line and a dirt line, is now even easier to access via the exit area of the newly built conveyor belt in the Riders Playground (constructed in 2020). This 5000-m2 area is the perfect place to get your kicks! All-new, handcrafted single trails boasting fantastic views! Beyond this year’s latest trail lines, the Bikepark Leogang also boasts two fantastic lines, the now indispensable Forsthof Trail and the Schwarzleo Trail, which both premiered last season. Both are narrow, handmade single trails. Crossing several streams and leading past high rocks, while enjoying the the approx. 2-km Forsthof Trail you’ll feel like you’re in Middle Earth! The 1.8-km Schwarzleo Trail is just marginally shorter. This picturesque trail winds through mixed woodland and offers a jaw-dropping views of the Leoganger Steinberge mountain range in addition to tight technical curves, flowy passages and North Shore elements. All ages can learn to mountain bike in the Riders Playground. The Riders Playground at the valley station of the Leoganger Bergbahnen is the ideal place for enthusiasts of all ages to try out the trend sport of mountain biking for the first time while on holiday. At 10,000 m2, this is one of Europe’s largest parks for beginners. In addition to practical conveyor belts for both bikes and riders, there’s even a surface lift suitable for transporting bikes uphill. This is an ideal environment for beginners and children to get used to biking, cornering and overcoming smaller obstacles prior to tackling the bike park’s more action-packed tracks. Those with a bit more experience and courage can practice cool jumps at the GoPro Bagjump! Jump after jump, a giant airbag in the landing area will ensure safe landings. But that’s not all: Two more tracks are currently being planned in the Riders Playground! In future, these will be accessible via the new conveyor belts. From the new 45-metre-long conveyor belt that opens up the lower bike area, bikers will soon be able to transfer directly to an additional 66-metre-long conveyor belt in the upper area. The new conveyor belts will also provide easy access to the new paved pump track. More cycling fun thanks to e-bikes 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 charging stations, partner hotels, sports shops or even at the mountain inns while bikers take a refreshment stop. Road biking on the highest mountain in Austria 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. Bike hotels and guides for a unique holiday experience 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, Hotel Forsthofalm, Hotel Der Löwe, mama thresl, Riederalm Good Life Resort, Ritzenhof lakeside hotel and spa, Biohotel Rupertus, Salzburgerhof – home of sports and four star superior Krallerhof Hotel. 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. The best bike events in Saalfelden Leogang During the 8th Biberg Auffiradler uphill race and mountain run, participants will ascend 5.5 km with 700 m vertical rise. The goal of this competition for ambitious bikers among the guests and local residents is to reach the Berlis Hütte mountain inn. Don’t miss a minute of the action at the UCI Mountain Bike World Championships (Downhill, Cross-Country, and E-MTB), which will take place from 7-11 October in Saalfelden Leogang!
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. Gut Brandlhof Golf Club – where the mountain river crosses the fairways 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 of the Steinernes Meer plateau and the Leoganger Steinberge, 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. 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 Centre, 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. www.brandlhof.com Urslautal Golf Club – a golf course with a breathtaking all-round panorama 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. www.golf-urslautal.at Après-golf – relaxation and enjoyment at the club restaurants and golf hotels After an enjoyable round, many golfers enjoy carrying on the tradition of social get-togethers with friends, sports colleagues and partners. Such celebrations are traditionally enjoyed at the 19th hole, a euphemism for the club restaurant, which is a place of relaxation, entertainment and banter after the round. The club restaurants at the Saalfelden Leogang’s golf clubs are the perfect places to relax and unwind after a good game and to sample the regional cuisine. Golf hotels in Saalfelden Leogang are also equipped with wellness areas, which offer golfers and guests alike ample opportunity for relaxation and enjoyment on holiday. With 17 excellent golf courses within a radius of around 70 km, the region is an ideal starting point for golf enthusiasts keen on variety.
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 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. “Simply hiking" - a simple concept that gets big results Lace up your sturdy shoes, get moving, enjoy nature and leave the complications of everyday life behind! ‘Simply Hiking’ is a simple concept in Saalfelden Leogang with particularly positive health benefits that encourages people to get up and go! In order to keep things easy, action-packed themed trails are not the focus. "We want to avoid distractions and focus on what matters," says Marco Pointner, Managing Director of Saalfelden Leogang Tourism. "We want to encourage our guests to just start walking, to enjoy nature and to have fun. The focus is on hiking, pure and simple, as well as the ability to switch off from the concerns of everyday life." After all, the health benefits of hiking have been documented in countless studies. Dr. Arnulf Hartl from the Paracelsus Private Medical University in Salzburg, Austria, says: "It has been proven that hiking has positive effects on respiratory diseases, back problems and many other common ailments. We need nature. It's in our genes." Hiking pole sharing and forest swings 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. 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. Asitz, a mountain for all the senses for families, those seeking peace and fans of culture 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 world of senses, 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. The natural cinema “Naturkino” scenic attraction, a panoramic plateau featuring long-ranging mountain views at the Asitz mountain, is all new as of summer 2020. So too are the TONspur stations, which will be erected along the hiking trail between the mountain station and the Asitz summit. Hikers who visit these five stations can listen to live recordings of TONspur concerts from the previous year while enjoying the beautiful nature. “Silent water” is the name of an additional offering at Asitz: lounging chairs, panoramic terraces, Keipp area and a swimming platform in the Speichersee reservoir invite guests to relax and enjoy the view. The small chapel next to the park is a worthy final stop of this ‘silent’ attraction. Those who are not so mobile or travelling with small children will be delighted, as the Asitz, and the Steinbergbahn gondola lift are in operation all summer. Family fun at the summer toboggan run or the world’s longest flying-fox zip line 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. The guided alpaca trekking tours, which allow participants to take the fluffy animals for a walk, is a very special family experience. Want to get a feel for the forest? Try forest bathing or enjoy simply enjoy a guided hike 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. From forest bathing to weekly medicinal plant hikes, torchlit hikes and even beaver hikes, here there’s something for the entire family. The offer “Einatmen. Wald spüren. Ausatmen.” (inhale, sense the forest, exhale) includes a seven-night stay, the Saalfelden Leogang Card, a hiking map, hiking socks, an Alpine snack, two hikes and a TEM (Traditional European Medicine) herbal workshop. Overnight in a bed and breakfast from 289 euros or in a 4-star hotel with half board from 598 euros. Hiking without luggage 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. Hiking with a pram The rich-in-contrast Saalfelden Leogang holiday region features several hiking routes and paths that are also suitable for families with prams and small children. For instance, the hike to the managed Riedlalm mountain hut starts at the Badhaus Leogang therapy centre and leads along the Leoganger Steinberge mountains. In particular, kids who are thirsty for adventure will love these easy to navigate hiking routes through forests and meadows. The hiking trails to the Seealm, Sinnlehenalm, Örgenbauernalm or Steinalm are also pram accessible. Plenty of route for joggers, trail runners and Nordic walkers In Saalfelden Leogang, every runner will find his or her perfect route 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 22 different routes. All told they total 120 km! There are also mountain running routes and high-altitude routes, which lead via very special trail paths to scenic attractions. Such trails demand that trail runners improve their reaction skills and coordination. This trend sport is ideal for strengthening the entire musculoskeletal system. Best of all, runners get to spend a healthy amount of time in the great outdoors! A climbing area in Saalfelden Leogang that even professionals will adore The Steinberge mountain-sports region boasts the Leoganger Steinberge mountain range, the Pillerseetal valley and the Saalachtal valley in Salzburg. Rocky and particularly rich in contrast, the Steinberge mountain sports region is ideal for beginners and experienced mountaineers. This beloved climbing area known far and wide features more than 1,000 sport-climbing and Alpine multi-rope routes. At 45 rope lengths, the “Pinzgawurm route” 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, which allow beginners to experience climbing for the first time, are also available for families. Meanwhile, from May to November, numerous guided climbing tours through the Steinberge mountain sports region take place in summer. At the Passauerhütte, Riemannhaus and Peter-Wiechenthaler-Hütte mountain huts, climbers and mountaineers can fill their stomachs and recharge their batteries with hearty meals and sweet delicacies while enjoying the magnificent views from the hut terraces.
The Saalfelden Leogang Card is a free card for tourists. Though previously only valid in summer, as of last year this practical card is now valid year-round! Now winter holiday-makers in Saalfelden Leogang can use the cable cars free of charge and take part in the tourism programme as well. The 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). Services included in the Saalfelden Leogang Card in summer, valid from May to October: - 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) - Unlimited return tickets for the cable car every day with the chair lift at Biberg (except for use of the toboggan run) - Unlimited free entry to the Leogang/Sonnrain and Saalfelden/Obsmarkt swimming pools and the natural bathing complex at Ritzensee lake - Weekly summer programme of experiences (guided hikes, herbal workshops and much more) - One free admission per stay to Schloss Ritzen Museum and the Mining 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) - Unlimited use of public transport in Pinzgau from 1 May to 31 October (bus and rail) 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 (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 snow-shoe 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 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) as well as the ski bus no. 696 between Saalfelden and Leogang Benefits with many other partners and attractions 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 or even tandem flight, the Flying Fox XXL and much more. For further information, see https://www.saalfelden-leogang.com/en/region-experience/Saalfelden-Leogang-Card
Plan just the summer holiday you want in a destination packed with thrilling steep trails and delightful relaxed outings. Want to conquer a craggy via ferrata or explore a gentle forest path? The choice is yours! Located around 70 km south-west of the city of Salzburg, Saalfelden Leogang has everything you’re looking for in a holiday region. From rugged limestone giants to gently sloping hillside meadows, from rural to urban, from traditional to innovatively modern, it offers all the ingredients of a perfect summer holiday in the mountains. Hiking with hiking pole sharing and forest swings Rich in contrast aptly describes the offers for hikers available in Saalfelden Leogang. The paths in the valley below and the grass-covered mountains offer hikers impressive panoramic views of the giant mountains that rise steeply above the lush green Alpine pastures. More sporty mountain lovers can choose between numerous high-Alpine mountain routes or long-distance hikes spanning several days. Luggage transport is even included. True to the Saalfelden Leogang motto of “simply hiking”, guests are encouraged to savour easygoing, stress-free adventures far away from the travails of day-to-day life. And a series of installations produced in the region, including 360° wooden benches and wrought-iron swings in the heart of the forest, offer the chance to take a break and enjoy a change of perspective. As a special service for guests in Saalfelden Leogang, there are so-called “pole-sharing-stations" at the starting points of the hiking trails. These natural wooden walking sticks are the perfect hiking companion for guests and may be simply returned at the end of the hike. Breathtaking panoramas atop Asitz mountain Looking for the ultimate way to escape the everyday? Take the Asitzbahn gondola lift, Steinbergbahn gondola lift, Leo’s Spielewanderweg trail or the route via the Großer Asitz to the top of imposing Asitz mountain and get ready for a majestic natural spectacle. At the Sonnkogel summit, you will come to the new “natural cinema” installation specially intended for hikers: featuring the natural sounds of the mountain landscape, an array of loungers and even a series of hammocks out on the plateaus, it’s a remarkable way to experience the region. New too are the TONspur stations, which will be erected along the hiking trail between the mountain station and the Asitz summit. Hikers who visit these five stations can listen to live recordings of TONspur concerts from the previous year while enjoying the beautiful nature. Climbing in the Steinberge mountains region Whether via ferratas, sport or Alpine climbing, it’s all uphill for climbing fans in Saalfelden Leogang. The Steinberge mountains region boasts the Loferer and Leoganger Steinberge mountains as well as the Steinplatte mountain. Due to the popularity of the area, you’re sure to meet up with climbing professionals here. Four new trails and a new pump track - one region for all cycling fans Saalfelden Leogang has the right offers for every biking enthusiast including numerous mountain bike routes, valley cycle paths and one of the most popular bike parks in Europe! The extensive mountain bike and trail bike path network in Saalfelden Leogang features easy, short or difficult tours for beginners and advanced bikers. Guides from the bike school and the hoteliers of the excellent bike hotels are always happy to help guests with tour planning. At the Bikepark Leogang, one of the most renowned in Europe, beginners of all ages can practice in the so-called Riders Playground. It’s the ideal place to navigate the trails, stones and roots down the mountain. The Riders Playground was also expanded this year to include numerous new attractions. In 2019, Saalfelden Leogang invested a total of approx. one million euros, which enabled it to significantly expand its range of biking trails. Two new routes are also on offer at the bike park: the Antonius Trail and the Steinberg Line by Fox. The latter is one of the park's most flowy and easy trails with an average gradient of nine percent and an altitude difference of just under 1,000 metres. Also new in the region are the Forsthof and the Schwarzleo trails, which boast absolute riding fun and pure nature. Those who aren’t quite ready to take a demanding cycling tour, but simply want to expand their range of possibilities, will benefit from offerings at one of the largest e-bike regions in the world in Saalfelden Leogang. At numerous places, you can rent e-bikes of any class and also quickly recharge batteries, even in the mountain huts. "“Because nowadays it's no longer just older or less physically active tourists who want electric assistance," says Marco Pointner, Managing Director of Saalfelden Leogang Tourism. "Most cyclists use the e-bike to make longer, more substantial tours during a single day.” The Bikepark will host the UCI Mountain Bike World Championships for the second time from 7 to11 October 2020. The world’s best mountain bikers come to town Saalfelden Leogang hosts MTB World Championships in October: Saalfelden Leogang will once again become the focal venue for the mountain bike scene on a grand scale. From 7th to 11th October 2020 will be the second time the UCI Mountain Bike World Championships will take place in Saalfelden Leogang after 2012. The title battles in Downhill, Cross-Country and E-Mountain Biking will be happening. That means a lot of action in the EPIC Bikepark Leogang! Saalfelden Leogang, Saalbach Hinterglemm and Fieberbrunn now Austria’s largest bike region Saalfelden Leogang teams up with Saalbach Hinterglemm and Fieberbrunn in winter to form the Skicircus – and starting this year, these three regions will now join forces in summer as the largest bike region in Austria. Only a stone’s throw from Bikepark Leogang, the trails of Saalbach Hinterglemm take in seven mountains, nine cable cars and over 70 kilometres of lines and trails for bikers to explore. Family holidays on the barefoot hiking trail and the Riders Playground What does the perfect holiday look like? Members of the family both young and old have very different ideas about the matter. In Saalfelden Leogang, however, everyone will surely get their money's worth. The Asitz mountain is a wonderful excursion destination. In Saalfelden Leogang, it is called the "mountain of the senses" because visitors to the Sinne Erlebnispark adventure park at the middle station are whisked away into a world of seeing, smelling, hearing, tasting and feeling. Along the barefoot path on the soft ground of an Alpine pasture, smell the scent of the mountains including the many wild herbs and Alpine plants. In the forest, your sense of hearing will be sharpened as you move very quietly, concentrating on the sounds. According to the motto "Silent waters at the Asitz mountain," relaxation loungers, panoramic terraces, a Kneipp area and a swimming platform in the Speichersee reservoir offer ample opportunity to relax and enjoy nature with your eyes wide open as well. Easier hikes lower down in the valley are suitable for parents with small children. Energetic children who have a great urge to move can let off steam on their bikes in the Riders Playground, or they can race down the Biberg mountain on the 1.6-km summer toboggan run. Weightless gliding with the Flying Fox XXL zip line At a length of 1,600 m and a height of up to 143 metres, the Flying Fox XXL zip line at the Asitz mountain in Leogang guarantees fun for the entire family. At speeds of up to 130 kilometres per hour, you’ll actually experience the sensation of flying while at the same time enjoying a wonderful view. Golfing at the Steinernes Meer plateau is rich in variety The two 18-hole courses, the Urslautal and Brandlhof, both feature breathtaking mountain scenery and transform golf into a rich experience. Both are classic championship courses and boast many interesting natural obstacles. Not far from the tees and greens there are several hotels that are perfectly suited to golfers, blending quality cooking with wellness treatments and golfing instruction. Recreation and cuisine: diverse, sustainable, regional 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 and some establishments focus on sustainable recreation. Many feature regional natural materials such as wood and stone. The WaldSPA at the Naturhotel Forsthofgut, the thermal spa at the Riederalm Good Life Resort, the "Alpine Holistic" lifestyle programme at the Ritzenhof - Hotel und Spa am See, or the superlative wellness offers at the Hotel Puradies are particularly suitable for relaxation. Pure relaxation is also available in Bergdorf Priesteregg mountain village with its chalets, two new villas, the new Priesteregg Bad pool, the Holzhotel Forsthofalm, the Salzburger Hof sports and wellness hotel, the Rupertus organic hotel, the unusual and modern yet traditional mama thresl hotel, and the 4-star superior Krallerhof hotel. Some of these hotels emphasise sustainability and guests can hire electric cars to explore the local area. The hotels even use energy they produce from their own biomass heating plants, wood chip plants or composting plants. 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. And that’s not all: with a total of twelve Gault Millau toques split between six establishments, one of which is in Saalfelden, the richly diverse Saalfelden Leogang region is no stranger to exclusive dining. The many medicinal herbs that grow on the alpine meadows are also important. Through workshops and hikes focusing on medicinal plants, visitors can learn about the healing wisdom related to these herbs, which is well known in Pinzgau and even forms part of UNESCO’S Intangible Cultural Heritage. Sense the forest 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. From forest bathing to medicinal plant hikes, torchlit hikes and even beaver hikes, there’s something for everyone. The offer “Einatmen. Wald spüren. Ausatmen.” (inhale, sense the forest, exhale) includes a seven-night stay, the Saalfelden Leogang Card, a hiking map, hiking socks, an Alpine snack, two hikes and a TEM (Traditional European Medicine) herbal workshop. Overnight in a bed and breakfast from 289 euros or in a 4-star hotel with half board from 598 euros. Music, Art and Culture - International Jazz Festival, ALM:KULTUR and TONspuren The region’s wide range of cultural attractions provides the ideal complement to its many outdoor activities. During the International Jazzfestival Saalfelden in August, jazz legends from around the world will get Saalfelden in the groove with many good concerts. The “TONspuren am Asitz” festival comprises five outdoor concerts performed between June and August on the Asitz, which is affectionately known as the ‘Mountain of the Senses’. Meanwhile, something extra special takes place every Friday from the beginning of July to the end of August when hikers meet various artists and cultural aficionados. As part of ALM:KULTUR, the mountain huts host a variety of concerts and workshops. Anyone can take part in the free-of-charge events and no registration is necessary. The Kunsthaus Nexus offers exhibitions, theatre or cabaret performances, lectures, readings, workshops and concerts all year round. Following an expansion project completed last year, the Mining and Gothic Museum in Leogang now boasts twice as much exhibition space for guests to experience the history of the region. A visit to the Leogang show mine is also exciting, as it deals with the historical ore, silver and copper mining in the region. In addition to the large nativity scene exhibition and the sacral treasures on display, the Schloss Ritzen Museum offers numerous special exhibitions. Take your holiday to the next level with the Saalfelden Leogang Card Regardless of whether you prefer to be active on the mountain, relax in the valley, join a guided hike or sample a little culture, the new year-round card issued to every guest checking in to one of the partner hotels offers complete freedom of choice. The benefits include a daily return ticket for the Asitzbahn gondola lift in Leogang or the Saalbach Hinterglemm cable car, plus unlimited ascents and descents with the chairlift on Biberg mountain. Cardholders also enjoy free entry to the leisure complex at Sonnrain, the Obsmarkt adventure pool and the natural bathing complex at Ritzensee lake. The Saalfelden Leogang Card also includes access to numerous guided hikes every week. Event highlights in summer 2020: 20 June 2020 Summer Solstice in Saalfelden and Leogang 25 June - 13 August 2020 “TONspuren am Asitz” (on five Thursdays) 3 July – 28 August 2020 ALM:KULTUR (every Friday) 7 – 11 October 2020 UCI Mountain Bike World Championships - Downhill - Cross-Country - E-MTB
Saalfelden Leogang is not only famed for its mountains and Alpine pastures. The most contrast-rich region in the Alps is the perfect place for those interested in culture. In addition to the famed International Jazzfestival Saalfelden, there are several other music events in various stylistic directions, in addition to arts exhibitions and workshops, theatre performances and of course plenty of traditional culture events. International Jazzfestival Musicians from around the world turn Saalfelden into the coolest music city in the mountains When the legendary International Jazzfestival Saalfelden is held, contemporary, experimental and familiar saxophone, piano and clarinet sounds will fill the air again. The variety of jazz styles, performed to perfection in the total of 70 concerts, is extremely diverse. The musicians perform both indoors, for example at the Congress or Kunsthaus Nexus and various other locations in the city, and on open-air stages. The outdoor concerts, which take place on the Nexus+ stage, at the town hall square and in the town park, as well as at the surrounding mountain inns on Saturday and Sunday – over 50 in total – are all free of charge. The new Artists in Residence projects can be experienced again this year and an additional highlight are the musical flash mobs to which musicians invite you during the festival via the jazz festival app. Due to Covid19, the jazzfestival 2020 had to be canceled. We are looking forward to a great festival next year - August 19th - 22nd, 2021. Klezmer, Classic, Folk Music – TONspuren am Asitz Music is the central theme of Saalfelden Leogang’s Culture Summer, even way up high! For instance, the open-air ‘TONspuren am Asitz’ concerts take place in the high mountains. As Leogang’s local mountain, the Asitz plays host to a total of five concerts from June to August featuring very different styles. In 2020, the mezzo-soprano "Angelika Kirchschlager," "Erwin Steinhauer & Klezmer Reloaded Extended" and "Bobby Enloe & The Texas Hold'Em Band" are just a taste of the many talented acts that will perform. Meanwhile, the rousing musical style of the Finnish harmonica quartet "Sväng" and the Viennese musician quartet "Amarcord Wien" will get the TONspuren concerts at Asitz rocking! ALM:KULTUR – Arts and culture in the mountains The so-called ‘ALM:KULTUR’ is a special and unusual event series. From the beginning of July to the end of August, hikers gather to meet various artists and creative types every Friday at the mountain huts. There are concerts and workshops of all kinds to choose from and participate. Everything is done according to the motto: “Tradition meets modernity” on July 3, 10, 17, 24 and 31 as well as August 7, 14 and 28. The best part: In order to participate in the events, you don’t have to register or pay anything. Only the hike to the Alpine pasture is necessary. More than a few guests simply show up by chance and are treated to the pleasure of a great cultural offering. Theatre for all When it comes to theatre, Saalfelden Leogang has plenty to offer. Founded in 2014, the Freiraum cultural association and the ecce theatre will for the third time stage the VolXommer Saalfelden Leogang theatre festival. Visitors will be treated to performances, theatre in a circus tent, VolX theatre at the Kunsthaus Nexus and Schloss Ritzen, acrobatics and great acting. Treasure hunt in the show mine and Gothic effigies of saints Those with an interest in cultural history and the visual arts are in for a treat in Saalfelden Leogang. During exciting city tours, participants can visit the late Gothic forge, where a number of Gothic cultural artefacts can be admired. Meanwhile, at the Leogang show mine, visitors will discover how ore, silver and copper were once mined and how difficult the life of a miner truly was back then. During a treasure hunt, younger participants can playfully discover how tunnels were once constructed. The venerable Mining and Gothic Museum in Leogang was recently expanded with the addition of neighbouring Thurnhaus, a fortified residential tower from the Middle Ages. The additional space hosts new temporary exhibitions. The museum is known for its stunning Gothic effigies of saints, boasting a collection of these priceless figurines and panel paintings that is the only one of its kind worldwide. Schloss Ritzen is one of four castles in Saalfelden. The museum, which is housed inside, harbours one of the largest and most significant nativity-scene collections in Austria. In addition to Baroque church nativities there is also a large oriental nativity and the local Saalfelden nativity made by the famous nativity-scene builder Alexander “Xandi” Schläffer from Saalfelden. The Kunsthaus Nexus has been an integral part of the Pinzgau culture scene since 2002 and features diverse offerings for young and old. Customs and tradition: ‘Hoagascht’ and the Leonhardiritt procession Guests can learn all about local customs with all their traditions during various events: Five times per year during, the so-called summer Hoagascht, a farmers’ market with local products, music and traditional events like “schuhplatteln” dancing or “schnalzen” whip performances, take place. On 20 June, during the summer solstice, Pinzgau residents light small fires in the mountains as they have done since the 14th century. The contours of the Leoganger Steinberge mountains and the Steinernes Meer plateau shine bright and forms and symbols in fire light up the mountain ridges. During the Bauernherbst event, many customs are celebrated. There are markets and performances of old hand crafts. This year marks the 130th anniversary of the Musikkapelle Leogang brass band. An integral part of local social life in one of the Alps’ most contrast-rich regions, the marching band is organising both a Bauernherbst autumn festival as well as a big anniversary celebration to mark this important anniversary year.
