When people think of Austria, skiing and images of snowy landscapes will often spring to mind, but Austria has so much more to offer. Jessica Sludds finds out what’s there for groups all year round, on a fam trip organised by Albatross Travel
While Austria is often associated with ski resorts, there is plenty to see and do throughout the year that will be sure to keep groups with any interests occupied.
During the warmer months, groups can enjoy a diverse range of activities such as hiking, lake cruises and visiting historic sites, to name but a few. What’s more, they will witness some of the most remarkable sceneries in the world while doing so.
We visited the western state of Austria, Tyrol, and we were even lucky enough to experience a small part of Germany. With four packed days of excursions, we aren’t suggesting this as an itinerary for groups, but it reveals just a selection of the group-friendly towns and attractions worth adding to any Austrian itinerary.
A head for heights
On our first day in Austria, we travelled to Zugspitze – Germany’s highest peak.
From here we enjoyed a cable car journey up the Austrian side of the mountain to the top. The word ‘enjoyed’ is used very loosely here. As you would expect, the journey is not for the faint-hearted. For those who have a phobia of heights it can be daunting, but once you have reached the top and see the views, the journey is well worth it.
As well as taking in the stunning views, an Adventure Museum and Snow Crystal Experience are at the top, and a self-service restaurant with panoramic views.
After a short cable car ride down part of the German side of the mountain, we took a cogwheel train through the Zugspitze Tunnel. It’s an incredible feeling knowing you are travelling through a mountain.
When we exited the tunnel we could enjoy the stunning views around us as we descended the last of the mountain.
On to Bavaria
The cogwheel train took us to the Bavarian town of Garmisch-Partenkirchen. Here we had some free time to explore the town and have lunch.
As it was a Sunday, a lot of the shops and eateries were closed. However, we got a good feel of what the town has to offer with many shops and bakeries set among the backdrop of the breathtaking scenery.
The coach picked us up at a set-down point just outside the railway station and we made our way to Oberammergau, which took around half an hour.
Famous for its once-a-decade performance of the Passion Play, we of course had to stop of at the Passion Play Theatre.
The theatre is impressive with the open-air stage exposing the stunning background. Visitors can also learn about the history of the play, which is explained in a film and a timeline of the history adorns the entrance hall.
It is open Tuesday-Sunday and there is a reduced rate for groups.
There is a coach park right beside the theatre where we were dropped off, and the main shops are within walking distance.
Most of the buildings in Oberammergau have detailed murals on them and you will find many wood carving shops selling an array of souvenirs. Cuckoo clocks are also very popular, with one shop boasting over 100 clocks in store.
Although it was Sunday, most of the shops and restaurants were open and there was a great buzz with many people milling around. For a small town, Oberammergau has lots to see and groups could certainly spend a few hours there.
Amazing abodes
Next, we made our way to the monastery Ettal Abbey, which was a short drive from Oberammergau. The castle-like exterior is impressive, but the church’s interior will take your breath away with its dome ceiling and huge chandelier.
The abbey is an independent community where the monks produce everything they need themselves. They also traditionally brew beer, which is then sold on-site.
Our next stop was Linderhof Palace. The palace and its surrounding park was one of King Ludwig II of Bavaria’s palaces, but it was the only one he was able to complete and live in.
Groups can take a guided tour around the palace, which is relatively small in size, but this is made up for by the beautifully intricate décor – perhaps a little garish for some people’s taste.
The palace and park are perhaps more suitable for active groups as the area is big and there are some inclines. However, there is a mobile stair climber in the palace.
The parking facilities for coaches are good and are located next to the toilets. Visitors then have to climb steps to reach a couple of souvenir shops and restaurants, before accessing the park.
Staying in Austria and making the journey into Bavaria is a much more cost-effective way of seeing Germany and a way for groups to experience both countries.
A step back in time
On day two we visited Tratzberg Castle in Tyrol. The coach dropped us off and we then had a short walk to catch a land train up to the castle.
An audio tour is provided while a guide leads visitors to each of the different rooms.
The audio tour is given from the perspective of some of the family members who lived there, from the Habsburgs family to the current owners, the Enzenberg family.
As there was a guide present, we had to question why the guide couldn’t provide a commentary, as it would have made the tour a lot more interactive.
The castle is open from March-November and the tours are offered daily.
The glass town
From here we moved on to Rattenberg, the smallest town in Austria, around half an hour from Tratzberg Castle.
Well-known for its glass making, Rattenberg has a number of crystal glass shops and groups can visit the glass blowing workshop at Kisslinger House.
Guided tours of the town are also available.
Despite its size, the town has a variety of well-stocked souvenir shops, cafés, and there is also a museum next to the coach park.
The Augustine Museum is housed in the 14th century rooms of the former Augustine Monastery and displays the province’s significant and sacred artefacts. Guided tours are available by prior agreement and there is a group admission price for 10 people or more.
Slow and steady
By now, we had travelled by plane, coach, cable car and train – now it was time for a cruise on Lake Achensee.
A novel way to reach the boat is by the Achensee Steam Cog Railway. The train departs from Jenbach and huffs and puffs its way up the mountain, tackling some seven kilometres and 440 metres altitude.
The company’s motto is: ‘Our world is fast enough – we live slowness’ and, as the train gradually makes its way up, you can’t help but wonder whether the train will even make it. Top tip: Be sure to visit the loo before you embark.
After the 50-minute journey, a steamboat awaits, which you are able to board straight away since the timetables are co-ordinated. A round-trip takes approximately two hours and there are group discounts available for 10 or more people. Pre-booked catering options are also available.
Something for everyone
Our first destination on day three was Mayrhofen – a town in the Zillertal, about an hour away from Innsbruck.
It is the ideal town for active groups with many hiking trails, including trekking with llamas.
However, Mayrhofen is easily accessible on foot as it only takes a maximum of one hour to walk from one end of the town to the other. There are ample shops for groups to leisurely browse and a variety of eateries.
There are also two cable cars that are opening during the summer months that go up either side of the valley – the Penken cable car is located in the centre of the town, while the Ahorn is at the southern end.
Next it was on to Zell-am-See. Similar to Mayrhofen, it offers many hiking and cycling trails to take in the stunning surroundings. Other summer activities available include horse riding, a summer toboggan track and segways.
As the town is situated next to Lake Zell, there are boat trips during the summer months. As early as April, the MS Schmittenhöhe offers panoramic cruises that last 45 minutes and groups receive one free ticket for every 20 passengers.
There are many shops in Zell-am-See selling anything from regional delicacies, to souvenirs, to clothing. So groups looking for some retail therapy won’t be disappointed.
There is free coach parking at Freizeitzentrum Zell-am-See (an indoor swimming pool).
A variety of events are held throughout the year, including a Magic Lake Show three times a week from 16 May-15 October 2017. Groups can enjoy a show starring water, light, music and lasers and entrance is free.
Capital of the Alps
The city of Innsbruck was our last port of call. As the capital of Austria’s state of Tyrol, it was much more bustling and modern than the towns we had visited. However, with the traditional architecture and the stunning backdrop of the Alps, it is a very picturesque city.
As well as shopping, Innsbruck has an array of museums and historical buildings to visit. A number of walking tours are also held daily for groups to learn all about the history of the medieval city centre.
Keep your eyes peeled for the famous Golden Roof – you might miss it!
So that concluded our Austrian Alpine adventure. We left with the feeling that we couldn’t wait to come back one day and we are certain that’s how your groups will feel. With so much to see and do, they will want to return again and again.
- Albatross Travel is the UK’s leading wholesale partner for group travel throughout the UK and Europe for coach operators. For more information, visit albatrosstravel.com or call 01732 879100
Group-friendly hotels
3*
Bon Alpina Hotel, Igls: 95 bedrooms. There are no stairs into the hotel and lifts serve all floors. Leisure facilities include an indoor and outdoor pool, a sauna and a fitness area. There is a free coach park within a few minutes’ walk.
Kerienhotel Fuchs Hotel, Söll: Simple, but comfortable with 67 bedrooms. There is a sauna, steam room and infrared cabin, as well as an outdoor terrace. Tyrolean-style bar and restaurant. Free on-site coach parking.
4*
Edelweiss Hotel, Lermoos: Five-minute walk from Lermoos with 145 bedrooms. The bar has regular entertainment, including live music. Leisure facilities include an indoor pool, a heated outdoor pool and a Jacuzzi. Free on-site coach parking. A concierge service is available.
Kirchberger Hotel, Kirchberg: 44 bedrooms. Modern Alpine décor with many areas for groups to relax, including a cigar lounge and bar. The spa area includes an indoor swimming pool, steam bath, sauna and a relaxation area. Free coach parking at the hotel next door.
Neue Post Hotel, Mayrhofen: Town centre location with 100 bedrooms. Tyrolean décor with a roof terrace, a spa and a bar, plus a wine cellar and a café. Free on-site coach parking.
Grauer Baer Hotel, Innsbruck: City centre location with 196 rooms. Air-conditioned rooms and a spa area with a panoramic swimming pool on the fifth floor. Two restaurants and a bar.
