Mountain Adventures & Alpine Romance in the Heart of Salzburger Land in Rauris
When the first snow falls and the Rauris mountains are shrouded in glittering white, one of the most beautiful seasons in the Austrian Alps begins. Winter in the Rauris Valley is not a loud spectacle, but a quiet experience full of magic and a genuine connection to nature. If you want to escape everyday life and experience romantic winter moments, you have come to the right place. Whether as a couple, with the family, or alone – the Rauris Valley offers countless opportunities to consciously enjoy a mountain holiday in the Alps.
Everything Winter Can Offer – and You Right in the Middle of It
Welcome to the winter wonderland! If you think winter holidays in the Salzburg mountains are only about skiing – then Rauris has a few surprises in store for you. In our charming mountain village of Rauris in Salzburger Land, a whole range of activities for a proper active holiday awaits you, guaranteed to draw you out into the snow and into the fun. Here are our absolute winter highlights for your stay:
Winter Hiking – Strength Lies in Silence
Winter hiking is one of the most beautiful ways to discover the magic of the Rauris Valley. Away from the hustle and bustle, well-prepared paths lead through snowy forests and along glittering streams. Your breath forms small clouds in the clear winter air, while the snow crunches softly under your feet. It is precisely these quiet moments in which you feel nature so intensely.
The Rauris Tourist Board offers about 30 km of prepared winter hiking trails throughout the valley, from Rauris to Kolm Saigurn. Information on individual routes, such as the Rauris circular walk or the path via the Hochalm, can be found on the Tourist Board’s website.
Snowshoeing – Freedom off the Beaten Path
Are you looking for a quiet, nature-focused alternative to the hustle and bustle of the slopes? Then we have something very special for you: Snowshoeing in the Rauris Valley – a true winter highlight for everyone who wants to experience the magic of the snowy Austrian mountains up close.
More and more winter sports enthusiasts are seeking peace in the mountains and finding it in the Rauris Valley in Austria. For example, while snowshoeing in the Kolm Saigurn valley head, where you can feel the power of nature at every turn in the midst of untouched winter landscapes.
A marked snowshoe trail leads from the Bodenhaus Alpine Inn (1,280 m) to the Kolm Saigurn valley head (1,600 m).Guided snowshoe hikes with a National Park Ranger are offered twice a week during the winter season. The free valley bus takes snowshoe hikers, winter hikers, and cross-country skiers from Rauris to the Bodenhaus and back every Wednesday and Friday.
A prerequisite for snowshoeing in open terrain is to be aware of the dangers of winter, to plan the tour taking the weather, snow, and avalanche situation into account, and to equip yourself accordingly.
Tobogganing Fun for All Ages – with an Extra Kick at Night
Tobogganing is not just a childhood classic; it is also great fun for adults. The Kreuzboden natural toboggan run is around 2 kilometers long and offers the best conditions for a rapid descent. Especially in the evening, when the run is illuminated, the toboggan ride becomes an unforgettable winter adventure.
Tobogganing by moonlight – wrapped in thick clothes, with a headlamp and a pinch of courage, you head down into the valley. Afterwards, a hot mulled wine or a cup of cocoa awaits in the cozy hut – perfect for warming up and laughing together. Don’t worry, you don’t have to walk up: The Kreuzboden chairlift takes you comfortably to the starting point of the run. Once at the top, not only does the tobogganing fun await, but also a rustic hut with warm drinks and regional delicacies.
Our insider tip: Tobogganing at the head of the Rauris Valley in Kolm Saigurn. Before heading downhill, a beautiful winter hike leads you through deep snowy forests towards the Naturfreundehaus or Ammererhof – that is where the toboggan run starts. The path is easy to walk, ideal for families, couples, or friends who want a bit of exercise in a dreamlike setting.
Facts about the toboggan run:
- Length: approx. 2.5 km
- Suitable for: Families & everyone who likes it fast or leisurely
- Ascent: on foot (approx. 45–60 minutes)
- Toboggan rental: available directly at the huts or in town (feel free to ask us at the hotel!)
- Special highlight: Tobogganing under the starry sky – an unforgettable experience!
Once at the top, you can strengthen yourself with a warm drink or a snack – and then it’s back down to the valley with a swing!
Horse-Drawn Sleigh Ride – Picture-Book Winter Romance
For all those who prefer to enjoy the winter in a completely relaxed way, a horse-drawn sleigh ride through the snowy valley in the middle of the Austrian Alps is just the thing. Wrapped in warm blankets, you glide on quiet runners through glittering forests and along snowy paths – accompanied by the rhythmic sound of hooves in the snow.
Whether as a romantic experience for two or a cozy family excursion – a sleigh ride is a highlight for every age group. The combination of nature experience and nostalgia creates memories that last a long time.
Contact and Reservation: Kutschenfahrten Pirchner, Tel.: 0043/ 664 13 40792
Cross-Country Skiing – Active Through the Winter Landscape
Do you love it quiet, powerful, and in the middle of nature? Then grab your cross-country skis and discover the dreamlike trails in the Rauris Valley! Over 30 kilometers of perfectly prepared trails await you – through snowy forests, along glittering streams, and with impressive views of the Hohe Tauern.
Whether classic or skating – here you will find the right route for every level. And the best part: The clear mountain air and the silence of nature give you exactly what you often miss in everyday life – true relaxation.
The high-altitude trail in Bucheben is particularly recommended – due to its location at around 1,200 meters above sea level, it is often particularly snow-sure and scores with a fantastic view.
Hotel Alpina Rauris – Your Place of Well-being in Winter
After a day full of experiences, the cozy Hotel Alpina Rauris awaits you – a place to arrive, breathe deeply, and enjoy. In our comfortable rooms, the spacious wellness area, and the lovingly managed restaurant, you can experience winter from its relaxed side.
What awaits you with us:
- Pleasantly warm sauna area with Finnish sauna, stone pine sauna & infrared cabin
- Culinary highlights with regional specialties
- Personal service that comes from the heart
- Central location in the middle of Rauris – ideal for all winter activities and child-friendly offers
Whether you are looking for a romantic getaway or want to enjoy the winter together with your loved ones – with us, you will find the perfect setting for your holiday in the snow.
Conclusion: Winter Romance in Salzburgerland – So Close, So Special
The Rauris Valley is not a place for fast-paced mass tourism – it is a place for connoisseurs, nature lovers, and everyone who wants to collect not just kilometers, but real moments in winter. Here you will find time for yourself, for togetherness, for your family – and for what often falls short in hectic everyday life: peace, mindfulness, and true winter joy.
Ready for your winter fairy tale?
Then secure your winter holiday at Hotel Alpina Rauris now and discover how beautiful winter can be when you enjoy it quite consciously. www.hotel-alpina-rauris.at – book now & secure your favorite spot
See you soon and warm, cozy greetings from Rauris,
Your team from Hotel Alpina