When the first snow falls and the Rauris mountains are covered in glittering white, one of the most beautiful seasons begins in the Austrian Alps. Winter in the Raurisertal valley is not a loud spectacle, but a quiet experience full of magic and genuine connection with nature. If you want to escape everyday life and experience romantic winter moments, this is the place for you. Whether as a couple, with the family or alone – the Raurisertal valley offers countless opportunities to consciously enjoy a mountain vacation in the Alps.
Everything Winter Can Do – and You in the Middle of It
Welcome to the winter wonderland! If you think winter vacations in the Salzburg mountains are just 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 awaits you for a real active vacation that is guaranteed to draw you out into the snow and into the fun. Here are our absolute winter highlights for your stay:
Winter Hiking – there is Strength in Silence
Winter hiking is one of the most beautiful ways to discover the magic of the Raurisertal valley. Away from the hustle and bustle, well-prepared paths lead through snow-covered forests, 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 around 30 km of groomed winter hiking trails throughout the valley, from Rauris to Kolm Saigurn. Information on individual routes, such as the Rauris circular route or the path over the Hochalm, can be found on the Tourist Board’s website.
Snowshoeing – Freedom off the Beaten Track
Are you looking for a quiet, natural alternative to the hustle and bustle of the slopes? Then we have something very special for you: snowshoeing in the Raurisertal valley – a real winter highlight for everyone who wants to experience the magic of the snow-covered Austrian mountains up close.
More and more winter sports enthusiasts are looking for peace and quiet in the mountains and are finding it in the Raurisertal valley in Austria. For example, when snowshoeing in the Kolm Saigurn valley head, where you can feel the power of nature at every turn amidst untouched winter landscapes.
A marked snowshoe trail leads from the Alpengasthof Bodenhaus (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 Bodenhaus and back every Wednesday and Friday.
The prerequisite for a snowshoe hike in open terrain is to be aware of the dangers of winter, to plan the tour taking into account the weather, snow and avalanche situation and to equip yourself accordingly.
Tobogganing Fun for Young and Old – with an Extra Kick at Night
Tobogganing is not just a childhood classic, it’s also really fun as an adult. 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 track is illuminated, tobogganing becomes an unforgettable winter adventure.
Tobogganing in the moonlight – wrapped in thick clothes, with a headlamp and a pinch of courage, head down into the valley. Afterwards, a hot mulled wine or a cup of cocoa awaits you in the cozy hut – perfect for warming up and laughing together. Don’t worry, you don’t have to walk up: the Kreuzbodenbahn takes you to the starting point of the track in a relaxed manner. Once at the top, not only tobogganing fun awaits you, but also a traditional hut with warm drinks and regional delicacies.
Our insider tip: Tobogganing in the valley head of Rauris in Kolm Saigurn. Before heading downhill, a beautiful winter hike takes you through deep snow-covered forests towards the Naturfreundehaus or Ammererhof – the toboggan run starts there. The path is easy to walk on, ideal for families, couples or friends who fancy a bit of exercise in a dreamlike setting.
The Facts about the Toboggan Run:
- Length: approx. 2.5 km
- Suitable for: Families & everyone who likes it fast or cozy
- Ascent: on foot (approx. 45–60 minutes)
- Toboggan rental: possible directly at the huts or in the village (feel free to ask us at the hotel!)
- Special highlight: tobogganing under the starry sky – an unforgettable experience!
Once at the top, you can fortify yourself with a warm drink or a snack – and then it’s back into the valley with momentum!
Horse-drawn Sleigh Ride – Winter Romance like in a Picture Book
For all those who prefer to enjoy winter in a relaxed way, a horse-drawn sleigh ride through the snow-covered 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 snow-covered paths – accompanied by the rhythmic sound of hooves in the snow.
Whether as a romantic experience for two or as a cozy family outing – 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 – Sporty 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 Raurisertal valley! Over 30 kilometers of perfectly groomed trails await you – through snow-covered forests, along glittering streams and with an impressive view of the Hohe Tauern.
Whether classic or skating – here you will find the right route for every level. And the best thing is: the clear mountain air and the silence of nature give you exactly what you often miss in everyday life – real 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 Feel-Good Place in Winter
After a day full of experiences, the cozy Hotel Alpina Rauris awaits you – a place to arrive, take a deep breath and enjoy. In our comfortable rooms, the spacious wellness area and the lovingly run restaurant, you can experience winter from its relaxed side.
What awaits you with us:
- Cosy 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 vacation in the snow.
Conclusion: Winter romance in Salzburgerland – so close, so special
The Raurisertal valley is not a place for fast mass tourism – it is a place for connoisseurs, nature lovers and everyone who wants to collect not only kilometers but also real moments in winter. Here you will find time for yourself, for togetherness, for your family – and for what is often neglected in hectic everyday life: peace, mindfulness and real winter joy.
Ready for your winter fairytale?
Then secure your winter vacation in the Hotel Alpina Rauris now and discover how beautiful winter can be when you consciously enjoy it.👉 www.hotel-alpina-rauris.at – book now book & secure your favorite spot
See you soon and warm and cuddly greetings from Rauris,
Your team at Hotel Alpina
