The glorious mountain range in Europe provides most outdoor activities as well as staggering panoramic views. Also think of all the emerald Alpine lakes, idyllic Alpine valleys and villages, that also provide Swiss-quality service and facilities. Check out this week’s ten choices.
10. Bath Gastein, Austria
A wonderful center is founded in a spa town of Gastein. Located in the Austrian Alps, which is also a popular ski site. Baths and pools use fresh water from the hot springs, that come from the mountains.
Why to go there?
Great service, beautiful nature, relaxing spa treatments.
Photo by Unknown
Photo by Unknown
Photo by Unknown
9. Graubünden, Switzerland
The canton is said to be the best ski area in Switzerland. It has the highest Alpine trails and amazing panoramic views. A wide range of activities are offered: skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing, winter hiking, as well as relaxing in Swiss spas or taking a scenic railway journey.
Why to go there?
Over 40 ski areas, including one of the most popular resort – Davos, Swiss quality spas.
Photo by Werner Büchel
Photo by Unknown
Photo by Unknown
Photo by Unknown
Photo by Unknown
8. Maggiore, Italy
The second largest lake in Italy sprawls in the southern Alps in Lombardy and neighbors Switzerland. In summer the Spirit of Woodstock Festival – an open air music celebration – takes place on the shores. Meanwhile, the lake provides great outdoor activities all year round.
Why to go there?
Obviously the lake is surrounded with beautiful landscape, is found in the mild Mediterranean climate zone and boasts a variety of activities.
Photo by Unknown
Photo by Unknown
Photo by Unknown
7. The Stelvio Pass, Italy
The second highest pass in the Alps promises one of the best scenic rides ever. The road connects Stelvio in South Tyrol with Bormio. The pass originally was built by the Austrian Empire in 1820’s and hadn’t changed much since. Stelvio is a traditional Tyrolian region, where one can find Alpine villages – picturesque, recluse and quiet, surrounded with mountains and skiing resorts.
Why to go there?
The historic road is one of the most famous passes in the Alps. It certainly provides great views and a classic winding route in the mountains, loved by the extreme drivers. The British show “Top Gear” called it the greatest driving road in the world!
Photo by Unknown
Photo by Unknown
Photo by Unknown
6. Gran Paradiso National Park, Italy
The stunning park, named after Gran Paradiso mountain, is found in the northwestern part of Italy in the Alps. Besides striking landscape, valleys, mountain lakes, glaciers and alpine meadows, various endangered species, like Alpine Ibex, chamois, eagle-owl and more, find a home here. There are various small villages scattered in the park, where tourists can find visitor centers and learn more about the reserve.
Why to go there?
Obviously many people come here to have a good hike and admire the incredible views, that open from the mountains. Also animal and bird watching are among common activities – however the wildlife is so rich here, that one doesn’t need extra efforts to spot some local inhabitants here.
Photo by Unknown
Photo by Christian Bonzi
Photo by Unknown
Photo by Giuseppe Rizza
Photo by Stefano Unterthiner
5. Step Into the Void, the Aiguille du Midi, Chamonix, France
Another stunning place to visit in the Mont Blanc range. A new glass skywalk has been built in 3842 m (12604 ft) high last year, overlooking the vast landscape to the Alps. The glass box can be reached via The Aiguille du Midi cable car. Although the glass panels are thick and are safe to walk on, the adventure is still for the brave souls.
Why to go there?
A wonderful site to visit once in Chamonix. It is also the highest attraction in Europe!
Photo by Step into the Void
Photo by Step into the Void
Photo by Step into the Void
4. Sylvenstein Dam, Upper Bavaria, Germany
The man-made lake embedded in the alpine landscape is one of the most exciting sites in the Isar valley. Situated at an altitude of 750 meters in the Karwendel Alps, the lake is fed by the Isar river. Water reservoir is surrounded with hiking trails, that are loved by visitors. Meanwhile Sylvenstein Bridge is a picturesque feature, providing visitors a scenic ride.
Why to go there?
Tourists come here to admire the views, hike, climb or bathe in the lake. A popular cycle track Bavaria Tyrolensis on the southern bank links Bavaria and Tyrol Alps. The destination is also loved by photographers, who are fascinated by this idyllic place.
3. Paragliding in France
The paragliding school accepts the beginners and youth. In winter this skiing resort is used for winter fun, but in summer it becomes a paragliders’ haven. Flying in the Alps – the biggest mountain range in Europe – is indeed incredible.
Why to go there?
Wonderful sites, paragliding school, professional pilots.
Photo by Tristan Shu
Photo by Tristan Shu
Photo by Tristan Shu
2. Brienzer Rothorn Railway, Switzerland
The scenic route stretches in the Emmental Alps as the steam locomotive slowly ascents to the Brienzer Rothorn mountain. The summit station is located at impressive 2244 m (7362 ft) height! The train also passes tunnels carved in the rock and makes breathtaking loops. Those who feel nervous about the heights – challenge yourselves!
Why to go there?
It takes about an hour to reach the summit, where restaurants and guest houses pay a warm welcome to everyone. You can also admire the views while hiking: there is a trail that stretches between the stations.
Photo by Unknown
Photo by Unknown
Photo by Michael Hediger
Photo by Raj Vimal Dev
1. Stanserhorn, Switzerland
The mountain stands high at 1,898 metres (6,227 ft) tall. It is easily accessible therefore is a beloved tourist destination. The summit can be reached by a cable car ride or via the hiking trails. Both way provide breathtaking panoramic views to the valleys and tge surrounding mountainous range.
Why to go there?
The peak is the best viewpoint, where from spectacular views open. Hiking trails provide great opportunity to spend a nice day outdoors.
Photo by Matthew Szwedowski
Photo by Unknown
Photo by Unknown