10 ideas for your bucket list

Altenmarkt-Zauchensee is a real all-rounder when it comes to winter adventures, memorable moments and unforgettable experiences. Whether you want to whizz down world-class slopes on skis, trudge through snow-covered forests on snowshoes or seek cosy relaxation in the thermal spa... For inspiration, we've put together ten of the coolest winter tips on how to make the most of the cold season in the double winter paradise of Altenmarkt and Zauchensee. Altenmarkt-Zauchensee – here we come!

Let's head to the active and indulgent paradise of Altenmarkt-Zauchensee! With the top 10 most beautiful winter activities in Altenmarkt-Zauchensee, I will show you once again that winter holidays with us can be wonderful, varied and relaxing at the same time. See for yourself what our genuine winter feelings are all about:

The boards that mean the world... There's one thing you can't miss on your winter holiday in Altenmarkt-Zauchensee – skiing. Whether in the cosy, family-friendly Radstadt-Altenmarkt ski area or in the challenging ski paradise of Zauchensee – when you consider all the possibilities in these ski areas, the wide variety of slopes and modern lift facilities, there's only one thing left to say: this is a unique ski paradise. Whether you're a beginner who is in good hands at the ski schools or a pro who wants to let off steam on the World Cup slopes, everyone will find their perfect run here. So, what are you waiting for? Hit the slopes and enjoy some skiing fun!

Winter hiking is clearly in vogue: the hiking trails that wind their way through the countryside around Altenmarkt-Zauchensee are quiet and peaceful. This type of exercise refreshes body and mind, allowing you to experience deep relaxation. And best of all, you can easily hike through wintery Altenmarkt-Zauchensee without any special equipment, just sturdy shoes and warm clothing, and even climb smaller snow-covered mountains. Those who prefer a more leisurely pace can stroll along the winter hiking trails around the village.

Ancient knowledge, tradition and customs – a glimpse into Altenmarkt's history is a truly exciting undertaking. In the Local History Museum, fascinating exhibits show you how people used to live here. A particular gem is the unique mechanical ‘Grundner Krippe’ nativity scene, which is over 250 years old and features 120 figures, 80 of which are movable, making it a real experience. Agricultural equipment and tools from times gone by are on display in the historic Dechantshoftenne building.

Do you also love tobogganing on the long runs in the mountains? Then hop on your sledge and feel the wind in your face! Tobogganing in Altenmarkt-Zauchensee is pure winter fun, and enjoyment and action for the whole family are as much a part of a winter holiday as snow is a part of winter. There are four runs in Altenmarkt-Zauchensee, all of which are well-maintained and groomed. Night tobogganing on illuminated runs is a particularly memorable experience here. It is also a real insider tip for romantics.

Do you know how healthy cross-country skiing is? Gliding through untouched winter landscapes away from the alpine ski slopes... You can experience the true joy of cross-country skiing on the trails around Altenmarkt-Zauchensee. In Altenmarkt, the Therme Trail (1.6 km) and the blue Resort Trail (7 km) are among the most beautiful trails. The 10.6 km long Zauchensee Trail with its Scandinavian character and guaranteed snow also leaves an unforgettable impression.

It's simply impossible to imagine skiing without stopping for refreshments. It's simply a tradition to stop for a bite to eat during a day of skiing in the mountains and enjoy hearty fare such as cheese gnocchi or cheese dumpling soup. Sweet classics such as Kaiserschmarrn, Germknödel or apple strudel are also pure delight. Therefore, a winter holiday in Altenmarkt-Zauchensee should also include a break in one of the cosy ski huts of the mountain inns.

The 12 Peaks Trophy is a ski tour from A to Z: from Alpendorf in St. Johann to Zauchensee, covering 12 peaks and five valleys. You can start the tour at a location of your choice in the middle of Ski amadé. Those who manage to ski all 12 peaks and cover 46 kilometres of slopes on 21 ski runs will receive a special trophy as a reward. How does it work? Simply register at skiline.cc and enter your ski pass number. The Skiline portal will show you which slopes and cable cars you need to take.

Relaxation for parents, fun and action for kids! The varied bathing and sauna area at the Thermal Spa Amadé is a real treat: whether swimming in the sports pool with its climbing wall and diving platform or bathing in the saltwater relaxation pools. The thermal spa also attracts visitors with exciting slides, the only single loop slide in Austria, the largest funnel slide in western Austria and the wave pool. The sauna infusions in the spacious themed saunas take you on a fragrant journey.

Wrapped in cosy blankets, you glide through the snow-covered winter landscape and feel the soothing silence of nature. The scent of fresh mountain air accompanies you on the horse-drawn sleigh rides as the horses trot cheerfully through the picturesque valleys. Let them pull you through the winter landscape, preferably with your favourite people. A ride through the Altenmarkt countryside lasts either 60 minutes (local tour) or two hours with a stop at one of the cosy huts or inns. The experience can be booked at the Zauchtaler Hof.

If you prefer to enjoy the mountains and the magnificent views on foot, you should definitely strap on your snowshoes. With snowshoes on your feet, you can easily hike across snow-covered slopes and meadows and through the winter forest. Far away from the hustle and bustle of the ski slopes, you can experience and savour the peace and tranquility. In Altenmarkt-Zauchensee, there are around 42 km of designated snowshoe trails, which are uniformly marked in orange.

photo credits: Hans Huber Photos, Lorenz Masser, Erlebnis-Therme Amadé, Matthias Fritzenwallner, Nadia Jabli