Coolcation in Upper Austria: Where Summer Slows Down
Cool mountain air, crystal-clear lakes, shaded walking trails and starry skies instead of tropical nights: in Upper Austria, the summer retreat is making a comeback. What once drew artists, emperors and those seeking respite to Upper Austria is now a hit as a ‘Coolcation’: pleasant temperatures, inspiring landscapes and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the summer in a relaxed way. Because whilst the heat is shimmering elsewhere, Upper Austria offers lakes, mountains, forests and places where summer remains pleasant. Combine nature experiences, water sports, exercise, culture, day-out destinations and places to indulge in a refreshing break that turns hot days into relaxing holiday moments.
As temperatures rise in the cities and the nights bring little relief, the longing for places where summer is still pleasant grows. That is exactly what a ‘Coolcation’ is all about. This trend is all about holidays in regions with a temperate climate, fresh air and natural retreats – far away from the heat and crowded beaches.
Upper Austria offers the perfect conditions for this. Nestled amongst mountains, lakes, forests and rivers, there are numerous places where you can relax and enjoy hot summer days. From the highlands of the Mühlviertel, through the mountainous landscape of the Salzkammergut, to shady river valleys and crystal-clear lakes, there are plenty of options for a refreshing break.
The coolest places
Summer retreats in the highest-altitude villages
More than a hundred years ago, summer holidaymakers were already drawn to the higher elevations of Upper Austria. What was known back then as a ‘summer retreat’ is now making a comeback as a ‘Coolcation’.
The highest-altitude villages in the region are particularly pleasant. Places such as Liebenau, Sandl, Kaltenberg, St Oswald near Freistadt, Gosau and Vorderstoder offer fresh mountain air, cool nights and plenty of space to breathe deeply. Thanks to their altitude, the often noticeably cooler temperatures and their proximity to forests, mountains and lakes, they are ideal destinations for a ‘Coolcation’ – and demonstrate just how pleasantly summer can be enjoyed in Upper Austria.
Summer retreats of the highest standard: places over 600 metres above sea level
These ten places are among the highest-altitude municipalities in Upper Austria. Here, the high altitude, cool nights and abundance of nature ensure pleasant summer temperatures.
| Place | Elevation | Region | Coolcation Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Liebenau | 970 m | Mühlviertel | Upper Austria's highest village, cool summer nights, star-filled skies and unspoilt moorland landscapes |
| Sandl | 927 m | Mühlviertel | Pleasant mountain climate and extensive forests |
| Kaltenberg | 842 m | Mühlviertel | Peaceful hilltop setting, rolling countryside and refreshing summer temperatures |
| Vorderstoder | 810 m | Alpenland | Spectacular mountain scenery, fresh alpine air and an ideal base for hiking |
| Gosau | 767 m | Salzkammergut | Fresh mountain air, Lake Gosau, Dachstein views and pleasant summer temperatures |
| Rosenau am Hengstpaß | 690 m | Alpenland | Kalkalpen National Park, the Hengst Pass and shady forests |
| Spital am Pyhrn | 640 m | Alpenland | Alpine summer, superb hiking and unforgettable nature experiences in the national park |
| Königswiesen | 610 m | Mühlviertel | Rolling hills, scenic walking trails and relaxing nature escapes |
| St. Oswald bei Freistadt | 608 m | Mühlviertel | Woodland surroundings and peaceful summer retreats |
| Hinterstoder | 591 m | Alpenland | Alpine landscapes, the Schiederweiher lake, cool valleys and crystal-clear mountain lakes |
Swimming and water sports
The ultimate summer retreat
Crystal-clear lakes, refreshing rivers and excellent water quality make Upper Austria a paradise for anyone who wants to enjoy the summer by and in the water. In the Salzkammergut alone, numerous lakes with excellent water quality invite you to bathe, swim and relax.
Those looking for more action will find countless opportunities on Upper Austria’s waters: stand-up paddleboarding, sailing, kayaking, surfing, kitesurfing, wakeboarding or diving. From a leisurely paddle to a sporting adventure on the water, there’s something for everyone. The lakes of the Salzkammergut in particular offer ideal conditions for this.
Whether it’s a day’s swimming at the lake, a paddle on a SUP or a sailing trip against a stunning mountain backdrop – here, summer fun goes hand in hand with a refreshing dip.
Our tips:
- Swimming in Upper Austria
- Current water temperatures
- River bathing spots
- Swimming spots
- Public lake access points
- Upper Austria’s most beautiful hidden lakes
- Stand-up paddleboarding on lakes and rivers
- Water sports in Upper Austria
This is how water becomes the perfect companion for a refreshing ‘Coolcation’ in Upper Austria.
Walking by the water
Refreshments included
Water is one of the best companions on warm summer’s days. In Upper Austria, numerous walking trails lead past lakes, rivers and streams. The sound of rushing water, shady paths along the banks and the chance to cool off make every walk a particularly pleasant experience.
Whether at the Almsee, along the River Traun or through impressive gorges and ravines – here, experiencing nature and a summer retreat come together perfectly. Anyone who dips their feet in the cool water whilst out and about or takes a break by the lakeside will quickly realise why hiking by the water is one of the most wonderful ‘Coolcation’ experiences.
Our tips:
- The most beautiful walks by the water
- Gorges and ravines in Upper Austria
- Hike through the Dr Vogelgesang Gorge
- Miesweg along the shores of Lake Traunsee
- Circular walk around Lake Gosau
- Through the Wolfsschlucht
- To the source of the Pießling
- Circular walk around the Ödseen
- Steyruferweg
This way, every hike becomes a refreshing break in the heart of nature.
Cycle paths along the water’s edge
Always following the water
Lakes, rivers and babbling brooks are the perfect companions for relaxing summer rides. Along the Danube, the Traun and the lakes of the Salzkammergut, cycle paths wind through varied landscapes and, thanks to their proximity to the water, offer a pleasant way to cool off along the way.
Whether it’s a leisurely family ride, an enjoyable day trip or an excursion on an e-bike – Upper Austria’s cycle paths combine the experience of nature, exercise and a summer retreat. Those looking to venture further afield can easily reach cooler regions by e-bike and enjoy impressive views time and again along the way.
Our tips:
- The most beautiful cycle paths by the water
- Danube Cycle Path
- Salzkammergut Cycle Route
- Traun Cycle Route
- Steyr Valley Cycle Route
- Inn Cycle Route
- Enn Valley Cycle Route
- Mountains and Lakes e-Trail
This way, every cycle tour becomes a refreshing break – with views of the water and a chance to cool off included.
Discover cool natural spots
Where nature provides a cool respite
Some places feel pleasantly cool even in the height of summer. Dense forests, moors, gorges and spring areas act as natural air-conditioning systems and offer soothing respite when temperatures rise.
In the Bohemian Forest, shaded walking trails provide a pleasant coolness; the Tanner Moor impresses with its unique landscape; and around the source of the Pießling or the Steyr, the cold spring water quickly makes you forget the summer heat. Gorges, ravines and waterfalls are also among Upper Austria’s most refreshing nature experiences.
Our tips:
- The Bohemian Forest and Mill Valleys European Nature Reserve
- Tanner Moor
- Pießling Ursprung
- Source of the Steyr
- The most beautiful gorges and waterfalls
- Gorges and ravines in Upper Austria
This is where nature shows its refreshing side – perfect for anyone looking to cool off on hot summer’s days.
A starry sky instead of tropical nights
Where the Milky Way seems close enough to touch
As the sun sets, one of the most beautiful aspects of a Coolcation comes to the fore. Whilst the heat in cities often lingers well into the night, the high altitudes and natural surroundings of Upper Austria ensure pleasantly cool summer evenings.
Far from major light sources, the starry sky sparkles all the more impressively. In the mountains of the Alpine region, in the Salzkammergut and the Mühlviertel, the Milky Way becomes visible, shooting stars streak across the sky and the night itself becomes a natural spectacle. Anyone who spends the day by the water, hiking or cycling will find the perfect way to round off the day under the starry sky.
Our tips:
Come along on a galactic journey to the darkest corners of our country and discover the magic of the night sky! This is how a summer’s evening becomes an unforgettable glimpse into the vastness of the universe.
Art and culture by the water
Artistic getaways by the water
Upper Austria’s lakes and rivers are not only natural gems, but have also long been sources of inspiration. From the Salzkammergut – a summer retreat for renowned artists – to modern museums and festivals by the water, cultural delights blend seamlessly with stunning landscapes here.
Whether it’s a visit to the Ars Electronica Centre on the Danube in Linz, cultural discoveries around the lakes of the Salzkammergut, or events set against a unique waterside backdrop – art and culture can be experienced in a particularly atmospheric way in Upper Austria. Water becomes a stage, a source of inspiration and a companion to unforgettable cultural moments.
Our tips:
- Brucknerhaus Linz
- Ars Electronica Centre, Linz
- Lentos Art Museum
- Mural Harbor
- Schütz Art Museum
- Museums and galleries in Upper Austria
This is how a ‘Coolcation’ in Upper Austria combines nature, relaxation and culture in a very special way.
Enjoyment by the water
Summer delights between the lake, the river and outdoor dining areas
A ‘Coolcation’ also includes delightful breaks in the most beautiful spots of the summer. Waterfront restaurants, shaded outdoor dining areas and laid-back beach bars invite you to relax and enjoy the hot days.
Whether right on the lakeshore, by the river or beneath old chestnut trees: here, regional cuisine, stunning views and refreshing treats come together. If you’re looking to wind down the day in style, Upper Austria’s beach bars offer that holiday feeling – complete with cool drinks, views of the water and a summery atmosphere.
Our tips:
This way, your ‘Coolcation’ will also be a refreshing culinary break.
Cool ideas for days out on hot days
A day out can be this cool
When temperatures rise, Upper Austria shows its refreshing side even underground. Caves, grottos, tunnels and mines remain pleasantly cool even in the height of summer.
Particularly impressive are the Dachstein Giant Ice Cave with its massive ice formations and the Dachstein Mammoth Cave, one of the largest cave systems in Europe. But grottos, tunnels and other underground natural wonders also invite you to discover Upper Austria from a completely new perspective. Or how about a breezy boat trip on a lake, cooling off behind thick monastery walls or visiting a cool museum?
Our tips:
Summer Holidays in Upper Austria
