Discover the secret of Austria’s Kitzbühel – the feel-good alpine region
Seven ideas to inspire your visit, from soul-nourishing hikes to wild swimming
March 6, 2025 | BALANCE, in partnership with ANTO
Have you heard of the Austrian word ‘Lebensgefühl’? It literally translates to ‘life feeling’ – a positive, joyful attitude to life imbued with great hospitality, beautiful alpine nature, fascinating culture and delicious cuisine.
The charming town of Kitzbühel, in the heart of the Tirolean Alps, is infused with Lebensgefühl. That’s what makes it the ideal destination if you need to relax and recharge.
Kitzbühel, sometimes referred to as the ‘Gamsstadt’, is well known as a luxurious, world-class ski resort. But now the big secret’s out: in the summer there’s a wealth of good reasons to swap your traditional beach holiday for its clean mountain air.
Here are seven ways to soak up Kitzbühel’s fabulous feel-good vibe…
1. Immerse yourself in culture
There’s scientific proof that a change of scenery and a connection with other cultures boosts wellbeing. In Kitzbühel there’s certainly plenty to lift your mood.
Wander through Kitzbühel’s parks and historic old town to soak in the architecture, including the colourful Jenewein Passage.
At Museum Kitzbühel learn about the region’s heritage, including the 1950s ‘Kitzbühel Ski Miracle Team’, and browse works by local artist Alfons Walde. There’s also Bauernhausmuseum, dedicated to local mountain farmers, and Krampusmuseum, introducing you to horned folk legend the ‘krampus’.
With the Kitzbühel Guest Card, you’ll enjoy discounts on shops, activities, and restaurants, as well as access to guided hikes organised by the tourist office.
2. Reconnect with nature
We all know the health benefits of walking. There are more than 1,000km of trails in the Kitzbühel region, from gentle walks to challenging mountain treks, many accessible via the ski lift network. Head to the famous Hahnenkamm mountain and hike down the Streif ski run. Or hop on the gondola that climbs part way up towards the Kitzbüheler Horn, and hike the Horn summit mountain trail. The views are wonderfully restorative for stressed-out city dwellers.
While you’re there, head to the Alpine Flower Garden. The presence of flowers does wonders for our wellbeing and there are hundreds of alpine plant species to marvel at. Forests cover almost half of Kitzbühel. Take the 6km circular walk, from town, around Schwarzsee lake. It’s the perfect peaceful area to induce calm (forest bathing at its best).
If you prefer heading out on two wheels, 800km of off-road cycling trails are just waiting to take you out into nature.
3. Find your inner drive on the green
There’s something about the camaraderie of golfing, and the need for focus, that puts it up there with other wellness activities. It’s certainly not the first leisure activity that springs to mind when you think of the Austrian Alps and yet there are four championship courses within a five-minute drive of Kitzbühel.
The 18-hole Kitzbühel-Schwarzsee-Reith golf course has impressive views of the Hahnenkamm, Kitzbüheler Horn and the Wilder Kaiser. The six final holes are particularly challenging. The 18-hole Eichenheim course is all dense deciduous forests and long pars, while the 9-hole Red Bull Golf course at Rasmushof in the finish area of the Streif downhill run is a golfing oasis in the summer. Finally, the 9-hole Kitzbühel-Kaps golf course is set in a park landscape with a view of Kaps Castle.
With an additional 12 courses in close proximity, it’s worth buying a Golf Tirol Card.
Golf Festival Kitzbühel takes place 22-29 June. A highlight is the ‘Golf the Streif’ challenge, where competitors take on 12 holes at 800m above sea level.
4. Take pleasure in the local cuisine
Enjoying a meal allows us to be present in the moment. There’s plenty of chance to do that here, with regional delicacies ranging from hearty cheese-topped Kaspressknödel dumplings to sweet Kiachl donuts.
The town is awash with gourmet restaurants, but make sure you also visit the less formal alpine lodges and inns, known as mountain huts. The family-run Hahnenkammstüberl serves the best cranberry pancakes and Seidlalm offers top-rate Tirolean cuisine. Early birds should try a Tirol Milch mountain breakfast at Horngipfelhaus restaurant on Kitzbüheler Horn mountain.
Don’t miss KITZ Kulinarik (29-30 August), a lip-smacking, sustainable food festival focused on local delicacies. Try Kaskrapfen, which is an Austrian pastry similar to a cheese pie, and Kaiserschmarrn, a fluffy pancake shredded into bite-sized pieces and traditionally served with plum compote.
5. Feel invigorated by wild swimming
There are several swimming lakes where you’re permitted to take a refreshing dip – just the thing for improving mental clarity and releasing those endorphins.
Visit the open-air lido at Lake Schwarzsee, the warmest moorland lake in the region, or try the popular Gieringer Weiher in the middle of the ‘Bichlach’ region.
If you’d prefer a ‘tamer’ option but still fancy an al fresco swim, the forest swimming pool on the edge of Jochberg village, just south of Kitzbühel, is great for families. There’s a separate baby wading pool and water slide, with a large grassy area and a restaurant serving up snacks and drinks.
6. Cherish shared experiences
Solitude is calming, but nothing beats shared group events for an energising boost. Kitzbühel’s calendar is brimming with sporting, musical, cultural and culinary happenings.
The town is particularly buzzing during PURA VIDA Kitzbühel. Dr Viktoria Veider-Walser, CEO of Kitzbühel Tourism explains: “PURA VIDA Kitzbühel is a wonderful opportunity for us to share pure joy with our guests. Every Thursday in July and August, the city centre transforms into a vibrant hub of creativity, culture and cuisine.” Sample local culinary treats, do outdoor yoga in the park, let the kids get creative in fun workshops and enjoy street performances.
On the first Saturday in August, the traditional Jahrmarkt takes place. It’s a huge summer festival featuring live bands, bars and regional food stands. Dirndl dresses and lederhosen are optional!
There’s also the Kitzbühel Cycling Marathon (7 September) which covers 216km weaving through stunning panoramas, and for music lovers Classic in the Alps (5 July), offers an evening of invigorating, al fresco live opera.
7. Savour a warm embrace
A warm welcome can give you a feeling of self-worth and belonging. The region offers accommodation to suit every taste and budget. And from high-end hotels to cosy guesthouses, there’s a common theme: generous hosts.
For nine generations the same family have run Tiefenbrunner 1810, a chic hotel in town with guest suites designed according to the principles of feng shui. A private garden, spa treatments and heated pool with mountain views create a zen environment.
Prefer to stay out of town? The five-star Relais & Châteaux Hotel Tennerhof landed Tripadvisor’s 2024 Travellers’ Choice Best of the Best award for good reason. Plucked straight from a fairytale, the 39-room hillside hotel exudes Tyrolean charm with all the mod cons. Luxury chalets and apartments are also available. Hotel A-ROSA boasts great wellness facilities – work up a sweat in six different themed saunas and steam baths with daily sauna rituals.
How to get there
There are four international airports within easy drive of Kitzbühel: Innsbruck Airport (1 hour, 30); Salzburg Airport (1 hour, 20); Munich Airport (2 hours); Vienna Airport (4 hours, 30). Great if you like to shop around for flight deals.
Prefer a scenic journey? Travel by train from London in just over 11 hours, with three short changes along the way.
Experience the joys of Lebensgefühl for yourself with a summer holiday in Kitzbühel – happy travels!
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Have you heard of the Austrian word ‘Lebensgefühl’? It literally translates to ‘life feeling’ – a positive, joyful attitude to life imbued with great hospitality, beautiful alpine nature, fascinating culture and delicious cuisine.
The charming town of Kitzbühel, in the heart of the Tirolean Alps, is infused with Lebensgefühl. That’s what makes it the ideal destination if you need to relax and recharge.
Kitzbühel, sometimes referred to as the ‘Gamsstadt’, is well known as a luxurious, world-class ski resort. But now the big secret’s out: in the summer there’s a wealth of good reasons to swap your traditional beach holiday for its clean mountain air.
Here are seven ways to soak up Kitzbühel’s fabulous feel-good vibe…
1. Immerse yourself in culture
There’s scientific proof that a change of scenery and a connection with other cultures boosts wellbeing. In Kitzbühel there’s certainly plenty to lift your mood.
Wander through Kitzbühel’s parks and historic old town to soak in the architecture, including the colourful Jenewein Passage.
At Museum Kitzbühel learn about the region’s heritage, including the 1950s ‘Kitzbühel Ski Miracle Team’, and browse works by local artist Alfons Walde. There’s also Bauernhausmuseum, dedicated to local mountain farmers, and Krampusmuseum, introducing you to horned folk legend the ‘krampus’.
With the Kitzbühel Guest Card, you’ll enjoy discounts on shops, activities, and restaurants, as well as access to guided hikes organised by the tourist office.
2. Reconnect with nature
We all know the health benefits of walking. There are more than 1,000km of trails in the Kitzbühel region, from gentle walks to challenging mountain treks, many accessible via the ski lift network. Head to the famous Hahnenkamm mountain and hike down the Streif ski run. Or hop on the gondola that climbs part way up towards the Kitzbüheler Horn, and hike the Horn summit mountain trail. The views are wonderfully restorative for stressed-out city dwellers.
While you’re there, head to the Alpine Flower Garden. The presence of flowers does wonders for our wellbeing and there are hundreds of alpine plant species to marvel at. Forests cover almost half of Kitzbühel. Take the 6km circular walk, from town, around Schwarzsee lake. It’s the perfect peaceful area to induce calm (forest bathing at its best).
If you prefer heading out on two wheels, 800km of off-road cycling trails are just waiting to take you out into nature.
3. Find your inner drive on the green
There’s something about the camaraderie of golfing, and the need for focus, that puts it up there with other wellness activities. It’s certainly not the first leisure activity that springs to mind when you think of the Austrian Alps and yet there are four championship courses within a five-minute drive of Kitzbühel.
The 18-hole Kitzbühel-Schwarzsee-Reith golf course has impressive views of the Hahnenkamm, Kitzbüheler Horn and the Wilder Kaiser. The six final holes are particularly challenging. The 18-hole Eichenheim course is all dense deciduous forests and long pars, while the 9-hole Red Bull Golf course at Rasmushof in the finish area of the Streif downhill run is a golfing oasis in the summer. Finally, the 9-hole Kitzbühel-Kaps golf course is set in a park landscape with a view of Kaps Castle.
With an additional 12 courses in close proximity, it’s worth buying a Golf Tirol Card.
Golf Festival Kitzbühel takes place 22-29 June. A highlight is the ‘Golf the Streif’ challenge, where competitors take on 12 holes at 800m above sea level.
4. Take pleasure in the local cuisine
Enjoying a meal allows us to be present in the moment. There’s plenty of chance to do that here, with regional delicacies ranging from hearty cheese-topped Kaspressknödel dumplings to sweet Kiachl donuts.
The town is awash with gourmet restaurants, but make sure you also visit the less formal alpine lodges and inns, known as mountain huts. The family-run Hahnenkammstüberl serves the best cranberry pancakes and Seidlalm offers top-rate Tirolean cuisine. Early birds should try a Tirol Milch mountain breakfast at Horngipfelhaus restaurant on Kitzbüheler Horn mountain.
Don’t miss KITZ Kulinarik (29-30 August), a lip-smacking, sustainable food festival focused on local delicacies. Try Kaskrapfen, which is an Austrian pastry similar to a cheese pie, and Kaiserschmarrn, a fluffy pancake shredded into bite-sized pieces and traditionally served with plum compote.
5. Feel invigorated by wild swimming
There are several swimming lakes where you’re permitted to take a refreshing dip – just the thing for improving mental clarity and releasing those endorphins.
Visit the open-air lido at Lake Schwarzsee, the warmest moorland lake in the region, or try the popular Gieringer Weiher in the middle of the ‘Bichlach’ region.
If you’d prefer a ‘tamer’ option but still fancy an al fresco swim, the forest swimming pool on the edge of Jochberg village, just south of Kitzbühel, is great for families. There’s a separate baby wading pool and water slide, with a large grassy area and a restaurant serving up snacks and drinks.
6. Cherish shared experiences
Solitude is calming, but nothing beats shared group events for an energising boost. Kitzbühel’s calendar is brimming with sporting, musical, cultural and culinary happenings.
The town is particularly buzzing during PURA VIDA Kitzbühel. Dr Viktoria Veider-Walser, CEO of Kitzbühel Tourism explains: “PURA VIDA Kitzbühel is a wonderful opportunity for us to share pure joy with our guests. Every Thursday in July and August, the city centre transforms into a vibrant hub of creativity, culture and cuisine.” Sample local culinary treats, do outdoor yoga in the park, let the kids get creative in fun workshops and enjoy street performances.
On the first Saturday in August, the traditional Jahrmarkt takes place. It’s a huge summer festival featuring live bands, bars and regional food stands. Dirndl dresses and lederhosen are optional!
There’s also the Kitzbühel Cycling Marathon (7 September) which covers 216km weaving through stunning panoramas, and for music lovers Classic in the Alps (5 July), offers an evening of invigorating, al fresco live opera.
7. Savour a warm embrace
A warm welcome can give you a feeling of self-worth and belonging. The region offers accommodation to suit every taste and budget. And from high-end hotels to cosy guesthouses, there’s a common theme: generous hosts.
For nine generations the same family have run Tiefenbrunner 1810, a chic hotel in town with guest suites designed according to the principles of feng shui. A private garden, spa treatments and heated pool with mountain views create a zen environment.
Prefer to stay out of town? The five-star Relais & Châteaux Hotel Tennerhof landed Tripadvisor’s 2024 Travellers’ Choice Best of the Best award for good reason. Plucked straight from a fairytale, the 39-room hillside hotel exudes Tyrolean charm with all the mod cons. Luxury chalets and apartments are also available. Hotel A-ROSA boasts great wellness facilities – work up a sweat in six different themed saunas and steam baths with daily sauna rituals.
How to get there
There are four international airports within easy drive of Kitzbühel: Innsbruck Airport (1 hour, 30); Salzburg Airport (1 hour, 20); Munich Airport (2 hours); Vienna Airport (4 hours, 30). Great if you like to shop around for flight deals.
Prefer a scenic journey? Travel by train from London in just over 11 hours, with three short changes along the way.
Experience the joys of Lebensgefühl for yourself with a summer holiday in Kitzbühel – happy travels!