Crossing the Austrian Alps – 8 days

DISTANCE - BELOW AVERAGE

Distance is not a major consideration in your training program. However, you should still incorporate some long walks as it will increase your cardiovascular fitness.

ELEVATION - ABOVE AVERAGE

Elevation training is a major consideration in your overall training program. You must include walks with serious hill climbs.

If you do not have access to hills, it is essential to replicate the elevation level you will be undertaking in any way possible such as on a treadmill or stair climber. Walking up and down stairs at work, at a local oval with a grandstand, or up and down small hills is incredibly useful. Also, prioritising resistance weight training will help you develop overall muscle strength.  Elevation is often where walkers encounter problems, opposed to distance, as it uses an entirely different set of muscles to everyday flat walking.

If high altitude is a factor, incorporate sessions at a higher altitude to acclimatise your body to reduced oxygen levels if you are able to. Ensure you can comfortably walk the average elevation per day displayed in the graph, at least one month before you undertake your hike.

TERRAIN - MOUNTAINOUS / UNDULATING TERRAIN

As terrain associated with mountain climbs is often somewhat uneven and rocky, balancing and core exercises are vital. Try to also include some form of elevation in more than 50% of your walking and prioritise resistance training, whilst incorporating stairs anytime you can. Walking up mountains or hills, up and down stairs at work, or up and down at a local oval with a grandstand is incredibly useful. Elevation is often where walkers encounter problems not distance, as it uses an entirely different set of muscles to everyday flat walking. Concentrate on doing lots of squats and lunges to build your glute muscles.

AVAILABILITY

This walk is available between the 13th of June to 20th  of September.

THE WALKING

This walk is Easy to Moderate. Trails follow beautiful high alpine routes on well-maintained mountain paths and forest roads, offering expansive views and classic alpine pasture scenery. Walking days can be up to 6 hours, so a good basic level of fitness is required. While the majority of the terrain is comfortable and clearly defined, there are a few sections that require surefootedness.

In some cases, more comfortable alternative routes are available, providing flexibility depending on preference or ability. This tour is ideal for those who enjoy scenic alpine landscapes, open pastures, and stunning panoramic views without the need for technical climbing or highly demanding terrain.

Although the route is well waymarked for each of your walks, you will be provided with Auswalk authored comprehensive walk notes, a summary of daily walks, maps (and GPX tracks if you require to use for your own device). Mountain weather can change quickly so it is essential that at least one of your trekking party is confident in using a map and compass to navigate (should visibility drop). You should always be able to locate your whereabouts on a map.

HOW TO GET THERE

ARRIVAL

Your adventure commences in the picturesque town of Garmisch-Partenkirchen, easily accessible via train with approximately 1.5 hours travel time from Innsbruck Airport. Upon arrival, you’ll find a welcoming atmosphere and beautiful scenery that beckons you to explore the surrounding Alps.

Alternatively, we can assist in arranging transfers to your hotel. Ensure a smooth journey by planning your arrival ahead of time.

DEPARTURE

The trek concludes in the enchanting town of Sterzing, a delightful destination rich in medieval character. From here, you can easily return to Garmisch by train, with a transfer that typically lasts around four hours and requires a quick change in Innsbruck. For those preferring road travel, Flixbus options are available, providing a comfortable journey back to your starting point. Experience the closure of your journey with fond memories and stunning views of the Alps.

LUGGAGE

Each morning it will be up to you to place your luggage at the designated luggage pick-up point within the hotel by 8.00 am. This generally will be at reception or where you pick up your luggage the night before. Please consult your hosts if any details. Bags must be less than 15kg (this is French legislation) and be Soft Bags (i.e. not hard cases).

INFORMATION PACK

For over 30 years we have taken pride in providing seamlessly organised walking holidays, but we know, even with that in mind, that you’ll have many more questions. You will receive a very detailed information pack and itinerary approximately 6 weeks out from departure outlining all the fine detail and much more.

INSURANCE

We require that you have adequate travel insurance against potential losses, damage or injury, including cancellation costs and loss of luggage.

For all trips that require international travel, you must have purchased travel insurance that also includes medical evacuation coverage.

We also charge a cancellation fee if you cancel your walking holiday after we have confirmed it to cover costs incurred from our suppliers and in the office.  See the FAQ section for more information.

CONTACT

If you have any questions, feel free to ask one of our destination consultants. You can get in touch with us via our contact form, email us at connect@auswalk.com.au, or call us on +61 3 9597 9767.

IMPORTANT - SOLO WALKERS

For your safety and well-being, we are unable to accept bookings for solo walkers on our self-guided European Alps walking trips. The remote nature of some tracks and limited mobile reception mean that walking alone presents a higher risk in case of emergencies.