One Foot Firmly on the Ground: Andrea Fürstaller's Resilient Love for Nature
Three years ago, Andrea Fürstaller lost her leg in an accident. How she learnt to live with it – and how we can boost our resilience in difficult situations.
Austria's six national parks offer visitors the chance to discover nature in its original, untouched state and to come face to face with scenic beauty.
Austria’s oldest and biggest National Park is known for its biodiversity: 50% of all Austrian animal species (15,000 in total) can be found here, including golden eagles, chamois, and marmots. It is split into 1.213 km2 (299.738,8 ac) core zone and a 643 km2 (158.889 ac) outer zone and stretches over three provinces.
The area’s rich, beautiful landscapes include Weißsee Glacier World, Pasterze glacier (Austria’s biggest glacier, where you’ll catch an icy breeze even at the height of summer), and Europe’s highest waterfalls, the Krimml falls.
Learn more about the Hohe Tauern National Park
Feel the cool spray on your face: Crashing down over 385 metres (1,263 ft) in cascades, these are Europe’s highest waterfalls.
Usually shy, some of these large rodents have gotten used to people and can be spotted at the Hohe Tauern National Park. Listen for their distinctive whistle which is used to warn others of impending danger.
The area's snowy 3,000-metre (9,843 ft) peaks and deep blue Alpine lakes make for a great day trip.
One of Austria’s most iconic animals, the chamois is found on sheer mountain peaks at altitudes of 1,000 – 3,500 m (3,281 – 11,483 ft).
Wildlife watching, discovering ferns and moss, learning about local insects: A ranger-led hike gives you insight into the unique flora and fauna of the Alps’ biggest nature reserve. From exploring Vulture Valley to snowshoe hiking, the park’s specialized tours let you do a deep-dive into the region.
Located at the northern edge of the Alps, Kalkalpen (literally: Limestone Alps) National Park is known for its wild forests and crystal-clear mountain streams which are home to rare species of animals and plants.
Exploring the area on bike is a treat – and hikers will find hundreds of kilometres of trails.
Park rangers can take you on guided hikes to explore the wilderness a little further.
“When I’m birdwatching at Neusiedler See-Seewinkel National Park, I feel like I have arrived. Everything’s so quiet, and all I hear and see is nature’s fantastic spectacle.”
Three years ago, Andrea Fürstaller lost her leg in an accident. How she learnt to live with it – and how we can boost our resilience in difficult situations.
The mountains fascinate us – not least because of their unpredictability. Join us on a hike that led from Innsbruck through part of the Karwendel mountain range and ended quite differently than planned.
Get ready for variety: from birdwatching experiences by small salt lakes to water walks through the city or tours for the toughest with adrenaline guaranteed.
Hiking is a great and memorable family holiday activity. Need suggestions? Check out our favourite kid-friendly trails.