A Weekend in Bad Gastein: The Perfect Itinerary

A weekend in Bad Gastein offers a unique blend of wellness experiences and outdoor adventure. This picturesque belle-époque spa town, nestled in the Gastein Valley, is renowned for its thermal springs, breathtaking scenery, and potential for ski touring. This two-day itinerary will guide you through the best things to do in Bad Gastein, ensuring a balance of activity and relaxation.

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Day 1: Ski touring and relaxation

Morning: Prepare for a ski touring adventure

Begin your weekend in Bad Gastein with an early breakfast at Hotel Elisabeth, where you can fuel up with a hearty Austrian breakfast. By 8:30 AM, make your way to the Gasteinertal ski area. For a guided experience, check out local operator Snow & Fun. They offer ski touring guided tours which typically start around €70-110 per person for the day, including equipment rental.

Midday: Explore the terrain

Spend the morning ski touring in the Hohe Tauern National Park. A recommended route is the tour from the Stubnerkogel to the Graukogel. This route provides stunning views and diverse terrains. Plan to ascend approximately 600 meters, which should take around two to three hours. Keep in mind that the weather can change quickly in the Alps, so always check the conditions before heading out.

Afternoon: Indulge in thermal spa relaxation

Post-skiing, head back to Bad Gastein and visit the Felsentherme thermal spa. The spa is famous for its hot and cold pools that provide stunning views of the Gastein Waterfall. A typical entry fee is around €30-45 for a half-day ticket. Spend a couple of hours relaxing your muscles in the warm mineral-infused water before enjoying a light lunch at the spa café.

Evening: Dinner and stroll through the town

For dinner, try Restaurant Felsentherme, which offers a cozy atmosphere and authentic Austrian cuisine. Entrees range from around €15 to around €25-40. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll around the town to admire the belle-époque architecture illuminated at night. Take a moment to appreciate the Gastein Waterfall; it's quite a sight after sunset.

Day 2: Hiking and local culture

Morning: Hiking in the Gastein Valley

After breakfast, lace up your hiking boots and prepare for a different kind of adventure. The hike to the Stubnerkogel Summit is a recommended choice, featuring a gondola ride that takes you up to 2,309 meters. The gondola ticket costs around €15-25 for a round trip. Once at the top, enjoy the views of the surrounding peaks and grab a coffee at the mountaintop café.

Midday: Return and enjoy local cuisine

Hike down from Stubnerkogel back to Bad Gastein. This trail offers a less strenuous descent that takes about two hours and passes picturesque spots along the way. Once you get back, have lunch at Café Gastein, where you can enjoy traditional pastries and alpine dishes for around €8-15 to around €15-25.

Afternoon: Cultural exploration

In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting the Gastein Museum. Entry is approximately €4-6, and it offers insights into the region's mining history and spa culture. Spend an hour or two learning about the area before wrapping up your cultural journey.

Evening: Final relaxation and farewell

For your last evening, consider dining at Restaurant Gabel, known for its game dishes and fine wines. Dinner prices typically range from around €20 to around €30-50. After dinner, take another walk to enjoy the serene evening ambiance of the town. The sound of the waterfall and the backdrop of the mountains create a memorable end to your weekend in Bad Gastein.

Outdoor Activities in Bad Gastein

Skiing and Snowboarding

In addition to ski touring, Bad Gastein is part of the Gastein ski region, which boasts more than 200 kilometers of pistes. The Stubnerkogel and Graukogel areas are particularly popular for skiing and snowboarding. Prices for day lift passes range from around €60 for adults and around €25-35 for children. You'll find slopes suitable for all skill levels, with family-friendly areas and challenging runs for advanced skiers.

Trail Running in Summer

For those visiting in the warmer months, Bad Gastein offers magnificent trails perfect for trail running. The route around the Stubnerkogel is especially scenic, with paths that wind through alpine meadows and offer panoramic views of the Gastein Valley. A popular option is the trail that leads to the Hochalmbahn lift, allowing you to run downhill while taking in the sights.

Mountain Biking

Summer brings opportunities for mountain biking as well. Various trails exist for both family-friendly rides and more advanced paths. Bike rental is available at local sports shops starting at about €20-30 for a day. The trails around Bad Gastein cater to all levels, making it an enjoyable experience for anyone interested in biking.

Wellness and Spa Options

Gastein Thermal Baths

While Felsentherme is the most prominent thermal spa, there are several other options around Bad Gastein worth considering for further relaxation. The Alpentherme in nearby Bad Hofgastein offers a range of pools and wellness treatments. Daily entrance fees start around €30-45, with various wellness packages available.

Spa Treatments

Many hotels in the area offer spa treatments, which can include massages, skin care, and therapeutic baths. For example, the Hotel Salzburger Hof features wellness packages that can range from around €90 to around €160-250, depending on the treatment. These experiences can enhance your relaxation and are ideal after a day spent outdoors.

Yoga Classes

Consider incorporating some yoga classes into your wellness experience. Local studios offer sessions designed for all skill levels, often in picturesque settings with stunning mountain views. Pricing typically starts from around €15 per class, providing a peaceful way to unwind during your visit.

Frequently asked questions

How much does ski touring in Bad Gastein cost?

Ski touring in Bad Gastein generally costs around €70-110 per person for a guided experience, which includes equipment rental. Independent touring may lower costs if you bring your own gear. Depending on your skills, consider taking a lesson to enhance your experience.

What is the best time to visit Bad Gastein for ski touring?

The best time for ski touring in Bad Gastein is from December to April. During these months, you will find the best snow conditions and well-marked routes. Always check the local avalanche forecast before heading out.

Are there other activities to do besides ski touring?

Yes, Bad Gastein offers a variety of activities. Aside from ski touring, you can hike through the scenic Gastein Valley, enjoy the thermal spas, or try waterfall trekking during the warmer months. Each season brings its unique offerings.

How do I get to Bad Gastein from Salzburg?

You can take a train from Salzburg to Bad Gastein. It takes about 1.5 hours, with trains operating regularly throughout the day. Be sure to check current schedules and ticket prices, which typically range from around €15 to around €15-25.

What should I pack for a weekend in Bad Gastein?

Pack layers for varying temperatures and weather conditions, a good pair of hiking boots, ski touring gear if you have it, and essentials such as sunscreen, sunglasses, and a reusable water bottle. Don’t forget your swimwear for the thermal spa.

Is Bad Gastein suitable for older active couples?

Absolutely. Bad Gastein offers a combination of adventurous activities like ski touring and hiking, as well as restful options like thermal spas. The town's amenities cater well to older couples looking for both adventure and relaxation.

Ready to go

Ready to book your adventure? Browse experiences in Austria on Roundtripski. Keep planning with the adventure guide to Lech and the adventure guide to Kufstein.

Guide requirement

Ski touring and glacier terrain in this region require a certified IFMGA mountain guide. Ski schools can provide lessons and resort guiding, but they are not permitted to guide glacier or backcountry terrain without one. If your plan includes any off-piste, ski touring, or glacier travel, book a certified IFMGA/UIAGM mountain guide.