Summer in Saalbach-Hinterglemm, Austria: Best Things to Do

When you think of the Austrian Alps, do you immediately picture snow-covered mountains, ski lifts and cosy chalets?

I certainly understand why. Austria is famous for its winter sports, and Saalbach-Hinterglemm is part of one of the country’s largest ski areas.

But what happens when all that snow melts?

It turns out that the Austrian Alps are just as beautiful in summer, and there’s a whole lot more to do than you might expect.

I’ve visited Saalbach-Hinterglemm twice during the warmer months, and it’s a fantastic place to spend a few days enjoying the mountains.

There are hiking trails for all abilities, mountain biking for those who like a bit more excitement, and plenty of activities for families. Or you can simply catch a gondola up a mountain, admire the views and stop for lunch at an alpine hut.

That last option is definitely one of my favourites!

What I particularly like about Saalbach-Hinterglemm in summer is that you don’t need to be super fit or particularly adventurous to enjoy it.

And with the JOKER CARD available through participating accommodation providers, you can save quite a bit of money on cable cars and other attractions.

Here are some of the best things to do in Saalbach-Hinterglemm during summer, along with practical tips from my visits to help you plan your stay.

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Saalbach-Hinterglemm at a Glance

• Location: SalzburgerLand, Austria, around 90 km southwest of Salzburg
• Best time to visit: June to September
• Summer season: Generally late May to October, although individual attractions have different operating dates
• How long to stay: 3–5 days, or longer for serious hikers and mountain bikers
• Getting there: By car or train to Zell am See, followed by bus 680
• Getting around: Local buses, walking trails and summer cable cars
• Best for: Hiking, mountain biking, families and alpine scenery
• Money-saving tip: Look for accommodation that includes the JOKER CARD

Things to Do in Saalbach-Hinterglemm in Summer

1. Go Hiking in the Austrian Alps

If there’s one activity I’d recommend during summer in Saalbach-Hinterglemm, it’s hiking.

With around 400 km of marked trails, there’s something for almost everyone, from easy walks along the valley floor to challenging routes across the mountain peaks.

And the good news is that you don’t necessarily have to climb a mountain to enjoy the views!

Several cable cars operate throughout summer, making it easy to reach higher elevations without using all your energy getting there.

One of the most convenient is the Schattberg X-press, which leaves from the centre of Saalbach.

From the top, there are numerous hiking options of varying lengths and difficulty levels.

I love that you can spend a few hours hiking, stop for lunch at an alpine hut and then catch the gondola back down.

For something less strenuous, there are also walking paths along the valley between Saalbach and Hinterglemm.

The Seven Summits Hike

For experienced hikers looking for a serious challenge, there’s the Seven Summits of Saalbach-Hinterglemm.

This is an almost 24 km hike across seven mountain summits, with around 1,450 metres of ascent.

All seven peaks are over 2,000 metres high, and the highest, Geißstein, reaches 2,363 metres.

The hike starts from the top of the Schattberg X-press and takes you across several summits before descending towards the end of the valley.

It’s definitely not one for beginners.

You’ll need a full day, suitable hiking equipment, plenty of food and water, and a good level of fitness. There are no staffed mountain huts along the route, so you need to be properly prepared.

During my visit, I only hiked to one of the summits, but it gave me a taste of the incredible mountain scenery.

I’d love to return and attempt the full Seven Summits hike one day, although I suspect my legs might have something to say about it!

You can find the route details on the official Seven Summits website.

Other Hiking Options

If the Seven Summits sounds a little too ambitious, don’t worry.

The Pinzgau Walk is a popular panoramic mountain route, while the Home of Lässig Walk is another challenging option for experienced hikers.

Together with the Seven Summits, these three routes form the Saalbach Hiking Challenge.

There are also shorter walks through forests and alpine pastures, family-friendly themed trails and routes leading to traditional mountain huts.

For something different, you can try the Escape Trail, which combines hiking with puzzles and challenges, a little like an outdoor escape room.

Before heading out, check the official hiking maps for distances, difficulty levels and current conditions.

Even in summer, mountain weather can change quickly, and it’s often considerably cooler at the top than down in the valley.

2. Try Mountain Biking

During summer, mountain bikes seem to be everywhere in Saalbach-Hinterglemm.

Once the snow disappears, the ski slopes and surrounding mountains become a huge playground for mountain bikers.

Together with neighbouring Leogang and Fieberbrunn, Saalbach-Hinterglemm forms Austria’s largest biking region.

For 2027, the region is advertising around 130 km of dedicated mountain biking lines and trails, along with an extensive network of other cycling routes.

There are trails for different abilities, from beginner-friendly routes to challenging downhill courses.

Some of the most popular include the Hacklberg Trail, which descends from Schattberg towards Hinterglemm, and the more technical X-Line.

The summer gondolas make things easier too. Rather than pedalling all the way up the mountain, riders can take their bikes up on participating lifts and concentrate on the downhill sections.

You’ll find plenty of businesses offering bike hire, lessons and guided tours.

While I was there, I saw mountain bikers everywhere, and they certainly looked like they were having a fantastic time.

I have to admit, though, that serious mountain biking isn’t really my thing.

In fact, I received a lesson in mountain biking from a nine-year-old while we were out hiking! Clearly, I have a bit to learn.

If you’re interested in giving it a try, the Learn to Ride Park near the Kohlmaisbahn has smaller versions of some of the area’s popular trails, designed to help beginners develop their skills.

There are also pump tracks and other practice areas.

I’d recommend starting with a lesson rather than heading straight up a mountain. It might save a few bruises!

3. Enjoy Some Easier Cycling

If, like me, you prefer something a little more relaxed, there are plenty of other cycling options.

You can follow the paths along the valley floor without tackling the steep downhill mountain biking trails.

One option is cycling along the Saalachpromenade, which follows the river through the valley.

For those who want to explore further, hiring an e-bike is worth considering.

The mountains around Saalbach-Hinterglemm are beautiful, but there are some fairly serious hills, and a little electric assistance can make a big difference.

There are signposted e-bike routes and charging facilities around the region.

Just remember that an e-bike makes pedalling uphill easier, but it doesn’t automatically make technical mountain bike trails suitable for beginners.

You can find cycling routes and current trail conditions on the official mountain biking website.

4. Visit the High Ropes Park

At the far end of the valley, near Lindlingalm, you’ll find an enormous high ropes park.

With more than 8 km of climbing courses, rope bridges and zip lines, it’s quite an impressive setup.

There are courses at different heights and difficulty levels, so you don’t have to start with the most terrifying one!

Some reach heights of up to 40 metres, and there’s also a Mega Flying Fox for anyone who fancies flying through the air above the forest.

Personally, I thought some of it looked rather scary, but it’s easy to see why adventurous visitors would love it.

There are easier courses for younger children too, although age, height and supervision requirements apply.

You can find current prices and opening hours on the High Ropes Park website.

5. Walk the Golden Gate Bridge of the Alps

Right next to the high ropes park is another attraction worth visiting, even if you have absolutely no interest in climbing through trees.

The Golden Gate Bridge of the Alps is a 200-metre-long suspension bridge that crosses high above the valley floor.

It reaches a height of up to 42 metres and offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.

The bridge forms part of the Baumzipfelweg, a treetop walking trail with elevated wooden walkways and viewing platforms.

You don’t need climbing equipment or special skills, although you’ll need to be comfortable with heights.

The treetop trail begins near Lindlingalm, which you can reach on foot or by taking the little Talschlusszug valley train during summer.

Find more information on the Baumzipfelweg website.

6. Explore Schnitza’s Holzpark

Next to the high ropes park is one of the more unusual playgrounds I’ve come across.

Schnitza’s Holzpark is a rustic adventure playground filled with wooden toys and structures created by a local woodcarver.

It’s quite different from the usual playground with brightly coloured plastic slides and swings.

Instead, children can explore wooden forts, aeroplanes and other imaginative creations.

There’s also a pond and a little creek running around part of the playground.

My favourite feature was the collection of rubber ducks that children could race along the water.

Such a simple idea, but I thought it was fantastic!

It’s a lovely place for younger children to use their imaginations, and a good stop while exploring the attractions at the end of the valley.

7. Cool Off at Käpt’n Hook Adventure Pool

If you visit Saalbach-Hinterglemm during a hot summer spell, the Käpt’n Hook Adventure Pool in Saalbach is a good place to cool off.

The outdoor swimming complex has around 1,000 square metres of water, including swimming areas, waterslides, a wild-water channel and other water features.

There’s also a restaurant and an outdoor deck.

It was too cold for me to consider swimming during our visits, but I can imagine it would be very popular with families on warmer days.

The pool operates seasonally, so check the opening dates before planning your visit.

8. Test Your Skills on the Motorikweg

For something that’s both fun and free, head to the Motorikweg, or Motor Skills Path, along the Saalach River between Jausern and Saalbach.

This walking route includes 24 activity stations designed to test balance, coordination, strength and agility.

There are balancing challenges, climbing activities and all sorts of unusual obstacles to try.

Even if you have absolutely no coordination (I’m talking about myself here!), it’s a fun way to get moving.

Some of the activities are surprisingly challenging, and they’re certainly not just for children.

You can try as many or as few stations as you like, making it easy to fit into a walk along the valley.

9. Discover More Family Activities

If you’re travelling with children, there are several other attractions worth considering.

Montelino’s Adventure Path is a family-friendly themed walking trail on Kohlmais mountain, where children follow a story and complete activities along the way.

Kodok’s Adventure is another themed mountain experience involving puzzles and challenges. The attraction moved to Hochalm for the 2026 season, so check its location before visiting.

The Wildlife Trail at the end of the valley introduces children to local animals and the natural environment.

Devil’s Water (Teufelswasser) near Lindlingalm is a nature-based water playground with streams, pools and places to splash around.

The Jump & Slide Park offers trampolines, jumping platforms and other freestyle activities for those looking for something more adventurous.

There are also playgrounds, mini golf courses and other activities scattered throughout the villages.

With so many options, it’s easy to see why Saalbach-Hinterglemm is a popular summer destination for families.

10. Stop for Lunch at an Alpine Hut

One of my favourite things about hiking in Austria is stopping at an alpine hut for something to eat or drink.

These mountain huts, known locally as Almen (singular Alm), are scattered throughout the hills around Saalbach-Hinterglemm.

Traditionally, alpine pastures were used for grazing livestock during the warmer months, and many of the huts have their origins in this farming lifestyle.

These days, many welcome hikers, mountain bikers and other visitors looking for a meal with a spectacular view.

There are around 40 serviced mountain huts and alpine pastures in the region, ranging from rustic little establishments to substantial restaurants with outdoor terraces.

You can try traditional Austrian dishes such as Kaiserschmarrn (shredded sweet pancakes), Kasnocken (cheesy dumplings), hearty soups and platters of local meats and cheeses.

During our visit, we stopped at Lindlingalm, right at the end of the valley, and enjoyed some delicious goulash soup.

It cost only a few euros at the time, and I’d happily go back for another bowl!

What I particularly like about these huts is that you don’t necessarily have to do a long hike to reach them.

Some are accessible by gondola followed by a short walk, while Lindlingalm can be reached using the little valley train during summer.

Of course, if you do spend a few hours hiking first, lunch will probably taste even better!

Check the official Saalbach-Hinterglemm website for current mountain hut opening times.

11. Relax at a Spa

It’s not all about getting active in Saalbach-Hinterglemm.

Or at least, it doesn’t have to be!

After a day spent hiking or mountain biking, a relaxing afternoon at a spa might be exactly what you need.

Many hotels in the area have wellness facilities, including saunas, pools and relaxation areas with mountain views.

Some offer day spa access to visitors who aren’t staying at the hotel, although you’ll need to check availability.

If you’re happy to travel a little further, there are also some excellent thermal spas in the surrounding region.

TAUERN SPA in Kaprun has indoor and outdoor pools, saunas and relaxation areas with mountain views.

Felsentherme in Bad Gastein is another option, with thermal pools in a dramatic alpine setting.

Both would make good choices for a rainy day, although they’re far enough away that I’d treat them as separate excursions rather than quick visits.

Alternatively, look for accommodation with its own spa or sauna.

There’s something rather appealing about relaxing in a warm pool while looking out at the mountains you’ve just spent the day exploring!

12. Enjoy a Summer Festival or Event

Saalbach-Hinterglemm certainly doesn’t shut down once the ski season finishes.

Throughout summer, there are sporting events, music festivals and traditional celebrations around the villages.

During one of our visits, the GlemmRide Bike Festival was scheduled for the weekend after we left.

Unfortunately, we missed it, but it would have been interesting to see some of the professional riders in action.

The festival brings together downhill racing, freestyle demonstrations, exhibitions and entertainment.

Other major events include the Lake of Charity, which combines outdoor activities and entertainment to raise money for charity, and the World Games of Mountainbiking.

If you’re more interested in local culture, look out for the traditional Hinterglemm Farmers’ Market.

Despite the name, it’s much more than a few stalls selling vegetables!

There are regional foods, handmade products, traditional costumes, music and a parade through the village.

If your dates are flexible, it’s worth checking the official events calendar before booking.

You might be able to plan your visit around something that interests you.

The Saalbach-Hinterglemm JOKER CARD

One of the best ways to save money during summer in Saalbach-Hinterglemm is with the JOKER CARD.

If you’re like me and love finding ways to get good value while travelling, this is something you’ll definitely want to know about.

The JOKER CARD is included when you stay at participating accommodation providers during the summer season.

You can’t buy it separately, so it’s worth checking whether your accommodation offers it before booking.

For the 2026 season, benefits included:

• Unlimited passenger rides on up to six operating cable cars in Saalbach-Hinterglemm
• Two free passenger rides per day in total on participating cable cars in Leogang
• Two free bike transports per day on eligible lifts
• Free entry to the Käpt’n Hook Adventure Pool
• Free use of the Talschlusszug valley train
• Free mini golf and adventure golf
• Guided hikes organised by the tourism office
• Free admission to the local history and ski museum
• Discounts on bike tickets and other attractions

The cable car access alone could save a considerable amount of money, particularly if you’re planning to head up into the mountains every day.

And you don’t have to be hiking or mountain biking to make use of them. You can simply take a gondola up, enjoy the views, have some lunch and come back down.

The JOKER CARD is valid for your stay within its operating season. The dates and benefits can change from year to year, and individual attractions may have shorter seasons.

Check the official JOKER CARD website for the latest inclusions.

My tip: If you’re comparing two similar accommodation options, check whether they both include the JOKER CARD. The potential savings could easily make a slightly more expensive property better value.

Getting to Saalbach-Hinterglemm

Saalbach-Hinterglemm is around 90 km southwest of Salzburg and can be reached by car or public transport.

Getting There by Car

If you’re planning an Austrian road trip, driving gives you the flexibility to explore the surrounding region.

From Salzburg, allow around 1.5–2 hours, depending on traffic and your exact destination.

The main road runs through Saalbach and Hinterglemm, continuing towards Lengau at the far end of the valley.

Parking is available in the villages and at several cable car stations, although it’s worth checking whether your accommodation provides parking.

If you’re renting a car, you can compare prices with Discover Cars.

Getting There by Public Transport

You don’t need a car to visit Saalbach-Hinterglemm.

The nearest useful railway stations are Zell am See and Maishofen-Saalbach.

From there, bus 680 travels into the valley, stopping in Saalbach, Hinterglemm and other smaller villages along the way.

If you’re coming from Salzburg, you’ll generally travel by train towards Zell am See or Maishofen, then change to the bus.

Check the Austrian Federal Railways website for train connections and the official tourism website for bus information.

Getting There by Plane

Salzburg Airport is the closest major airport, but Munich Airport is another option, particularly if you’re arriving on an international flight.

From either airport, you can continue by public transport, hire a car or arrange a private transfer.

Getting Around

The 680 bus makes it’s way regularly up and down the valley and will get you to most places you need to go.Once you’re in the valley, getting around is relatively straightforward.

Bus 680 connects the villages, while walking and cycling paths provide another way to explore.

At Lengau, the little Talschlusszug train operates during summer, taking visitors towards Lindlingalm and the attractions at the end of the valley.

Summer cable cars also provide access to the mountains for hikers, mountain bikers and sightseers.

Keep in mind that individual lifts have different operating dates.

For example, the published 2027 schedule includes the Reiterkogel and Schönleitenbahn lifts, alongside other summer cable cars, but not all are operating for the entire season.

Check the official summer cable car timetable before planning a mountain excursion.

Salzburg Guest Mobility Ticket

Another excellent benefit for visitors is the Salzburg Guest Mobility Ticket.

Guests staying overnight in registered accommodation in the province of Salzburg receive this ticket, which provides access to public transport throughout the province during their stay.

It covers participating regional trains and buses, making it useful for getting around Saalbach-Hinterglemm and exploring other places in SalzburgerLand.

The ticket is separate from the JOKER CARD, so you don’t need to stay at a JOKER CARD partner property to receive it.

Ask your accommodation about arranging the ticket before arrival, particularly if you plan to use public transport to reach Saalbach-Hinterglemm.

Between the buses, cable cars and guest transport benefits, you could easily spend several days here without needing a car.

Where to Stay in Saalbach-Hinterglemm

One of the things I love about Saalbach-Hinterglemm is the traditional alpine-style accommodation.

While there are certainly some lovely hotels, including luxury wellness resorts, you’ll also find plenty of wooden chalets, family-run guesthouses and self-contained apartments.

Many buildings have that classic Austrian mountain appearance, with timber balconies, flower boxes and beautiful views across the valley.

We’ve stayed in apartments during both of our visits, and I found them a comfortable and convenient way to enjoy the region.

Having kitchen facilities also makes it easier to keep food costs down.

There are traditional guesthouses, known as Pensionen, which often include breakfast, as well as larger chalets suitable for families and groups.

Best Areas to Stay in Saalbach-Hinterglemm

Saalbach – Best for Convenience

Saalbach is the main village and my pick if you want restaurants, shops and cable cars within easy walking distance.

It’s home to the Schattberg X-press and Kohlmais cable cars, making it particularly convenient for hiking and sightseeing.

If it’s your first visit and you don’t have a car, I’d probably start looking here.

Hinterglemm – Best for Outdoor Activities and Families

Hinterglemm is further along the valley and has its own selection of restaurants, shops and accommodation.

It’s a good base for hiking and mountain biking, with access to summer lifts and the attractions towards Lengau.

The village has a lovely alpine atmosphere and is another excellent option.

Vorderglemm and Jausern – Best for a Quieter Stay

If you’d prefer somewhere away from the busier village centres, consider Vorderglemm or Jausern.

You’ll find traditional guesthouses, apartments and hotels, often surrounded by beautiful countryside.

These areas could be a good choice if you have a car or want somewhere peaceful to relax.

You can still use the local buses, but you’ll have fewer restaurants and facilities within walking distance.

Lengau – Best for Getting Away From It All

At the far end of the valley, Lengau is a much quieter option.

It’s close to the walking trails and attractions around Lindlingalm, but less convenient for restaurants, shops and evening activities.

I’d be more inclined to stay here with a car.

Tips for Choosing Accommodation

Before booking, there are a few things I’d check:

• JOKER CARD: Does the property include it?
• Location: How far is it from the nearest bus stop or cable car station?
• Kitchen facilities: Would an apartment help save money on meals?
• Parking: Is it included if you’re driving?
• Summer facilities: Are the advertised restaurants, spas and other services operating during your visit?

One other thing to watch is the location on a map.

An apartment might look close to the centre of Saalbach or Hinterglemm, but if it’s halfway up a steep hillside, that short walk could be more challenging than you expect!

You can compare accommodation in Saalbach-Hinterglemm on Booking.com

When Is the Best Time to Visit Saalbach-Hinterglemm in Summer?

For the best chance of warmer weather and plenty of activities operating, I’d suggest visiting between late June and early September.

June can be beautiful, with green alpine meadows and wildflowers, although some higher hiking trails may still have snow early in the month.

July and August are generally the warmest months, but they’re also popular with European holidaymakers, particularly families.

September is another lovely time to visit, with potentially quieter trails and cooler temperatures.

Some activities continue into October, although the weather becomes less predictable and fewer lifts may be operating.

Mountain conditions can change quickly even in midsummer, so pack layers, a waterproof jacket and suitable walking shoes.

I’d also recommend checking the weather forecast and mountain webcams before heading up.

It might be sunny down in the village but cloudy at the top, and there’s not much point heading up for spectacular mountain views if you can’t see anything!

How Many Days Do You Need in Saalbach-Hinterglemm?

I’d recommend allowing at least three days to enjoy Saalbach-Hinterglemm in summer.

That would give you time to head into the mountains on a gondola, enjoy a hike, explore the villages and visit some of the attractions.

With four or five days, you can include more hiking, cycling or relaxation time without rushing.

If you’re a keen mountain biker or serious hiker, you could easily spend a week here.

Personally, I think this is one of those places where it’s worth leaving a little flexibility in your itinerary.

You might wake up to beautiful clear mountain views and decide it’s the perfect day for a hike, or you might find yourself enjoying a long lunch at an alpine hut instead.

Either sounds pretty good to me!

Frequently Asked Questions About Saalbach-Hinterglemm in Summer

Do You Need a Car in Saalbach-Hinterglemm?

No. Bus 680 connects the main villages, summer cable cars provide access to the mountains, and the Salzburg Guest Mobility Ticket makes public transport convenient for overnight visitors.

I’d recommend choosing accommodation near a bus stop if you’re not driving.

Are the Cable Cars Open in Summer?

Yes, several cable cars operate during summer for hikers, mountain bikers and sightseers.

However, operating dates vary, so check the official lift timetable before visiting.

Is Saalbach-Hinterglemm Expensive in Summer?

It can be quite good value, particularly if you stay in a self-contained apartment and choose accommodation that includes the JOKER CARD.

Many hiking trails and outdoor attractions are free, while the guest card can provide considerable savings on cable cars and other activities.

Can You Visit Saalbach-Hinterglemm if You Don’t Hike?

Definitely!

You can take a gondola into the mountains simply to enjoy the views, explore the villages, visit alpine restaurants, relax at a spa or enjoy the outdoor attractions.

You don’t need to be especially fit to enjoy a summer holiday here.

What Should You Pack for Saalbach-Hinterglemm in Summer?

Even in the middle of summer, mountain temperatures can be quite cool, particularly at higher elevations.

I’d recommend comfortable walking shoes, a waterproof jacket, warm layers, sunscreen and a reusable water bottle.

If you’re planning longer hikes, you’ll need appropriate hiking gear and extra supplies.

More Information for Planning Your Visit

The best place to check the latest information is the official Saalbach-Hinterglemm tourism website.

You’ll find current cable car operating times, hiking maps, weather forecasts, webcams and upcoming events.

There are also tourist information offices in Saalbach and Hinterglemm where you can pick up maps and ask for advice about local walks.

During our visits, we found that not every business offered its full range of services outside the busiest periods.

At one restaurant, for example, we could only order from a set menu because the full à la carte menu wasn’t being offered until a couple of weeks later.

It’s a good reminder to check opening times and available services, particularly if you’re visiting early or late in the summer season.

Is Saalbach-Hinterglemm Worth Visiting in Summer?

Absolutely!

If you love being outdoors, enjoying beautiful mountain scenery or simply spending time somewhere a little different from the usual European city destinations, I’d definitely recommend it.

You don’t need to be a serious hiker, mountain biker or adventure sports enthusiast to enjoy the Austrian Alps during summer.

There’s something quite special about taking a gondola up into the mountains, wandering along an alpine trail and stopping for a delicious lunch with an incredible view.

And with the JOKER CARD offering so many opportunities to save money, it’s possible to enjoy a fantastic mountain holiday without spending a fortune on activities.

After visiting twice, I’d happily return again.

There’s still plenty more I’d like to explore, and perhaps one day I’ll even tackle the full Seven Summits hike!

If you’re planning a summer trip to Austria, don’t overlook Saalbach-Hinterglemm just because there’s no snow.

You might discover that the Austrian Alps are even better in summer.

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