Top 10 Things to Do in Schladming

Regardless of whether you are an adrenaline seeking mountain biker, a road cruiser or a laid back e-cyclist, you will be able to find a trail to suit you in Schladming — with a wide selection of around 930 kilometres of clearly marked paths and tours. The Ennsradweg tour is a favourite among tourists, taking you through the national parks and the River Danube. If you don’t own your own bike, renting one is very easy.

Wild swimming in Schladming is a pure joy — with tranquil, clear, beautifully clean waters and stunning Alpine backdrops. There are few options for those seeking a refreshing dip in the summertime, from the family friendly Freizeitanlage swimming pond, which has the advantages of a wooden deck for sunbathing and children’s play park, to the infinity style Gipfelbad Riesneralm, for more serious swimmers.

Get whisked up into the sky in a matter of moments using one of the town’s summer cable cars, where you can experience awe inspiring panoramic views.

If you’re worried that this town purely caters for sporty types, think again. The ARTelierzeffererHOF offers workshops giving you the opportunity to get in touch with your creative side — in their own words, they invite you to ‘Experience a convivial evening that revolves around bright colours and creative freedom.’ The workshop comprises a champagne reception, tour of the studio, then the chance to try sculpting and painting, or wood burning.

Beginners and seasoned hikers will both enjoy the Schladminger-Tauern Höhenweg trail, which takes you along the central Alpine trail. Rich in geological features, various plants and animals and surrounding mountains, this is one of Austria’s most awe inspiring routes. Gorgeous streams with dramatic waterfalls and countless small rivulets flowing from springs beneath the Tauern mountains add to the joy of hiking in this region.

Alongside some fantastic weekly markets, there are many other events taking place throughout the year that foodies will adore, including the ‘Almlammfest’ or the ‘Kasfest’ as well as mountain meadow farmers festivals that take place in the Autumn. Rustic hill taverns, hearty guesthouses, restaurants, comfortable cafés and bars to luxury restaurants can also be found in the town and a must-try ingredient is pumpkin oil — a rich, dark golden liquid with a distinctive nutty taste and a speciality of this area.

A spa day is the perfect remedy for sore muscles from skiing or hiking. The day spa at the Falkensteiner Hotel contains a bathing complex with indoor and outdoor pools, and a selection of themed saunas.

Skiing is one of the main reasons why people visit Schladming, with resorts boasting cut fresh tracks through the snow across 230 kilometres of perfectly groomed slopes. However, those wanting something a little different or special should try night skiing — a terrifically atmospheric experience. If skiing isn’t your game, you could try your hand at after hours tobogganing, in track on Hochwurzen, which at 7 kilometres is the longest track in the Alps.

Although there are some fantastic hotels in the area, in the warmer months, it is well worth getting out the camping gear — a guaranteed way of experiencing the stunning natural beauty that the region has to offer, in the most intimate setting possible. Visit this website for details on campsites.

Not just an area for winter sports fans, but for water sports enthusiasts too. This experience offers the chance to get up close and personal with the waters of the River Enns.