If you’re planning a summer hiking trip and are looking for a European destination that marries unparalleled views and extreme sports with culture, cuisine, and wellness, you’ve come to the right place.
St. Anton am Arlberg may be best known for its winter sports but in summer, it’s an underrated destination for all of the above.
Read on to discover more about this gorgeous Austrian town and how to plan the perfect summer getaway here!
Faraway Lucy was welcomed as a guest of Visit Austria, Visit Tyrol, and St. Anton am Arlberg; however, as always, all opinions are my own.
What is St. Anton am Arlberg?
Situated in the heart of the Tyrolean Alps, St. Anton am Arlberg is known as “the cradle of Alpine skiing” for its role in inventing the sport.
You’d be forgiven for, therefore, thinking that it’s simply a winter holiday destination but you’d be oh so wrong!
In the warmer months, the ski slopes transform into incredible hiking trails with the most mind-blowing views.
And while hiking opportunities are ample, it’s the Lebensgefühl (the unique feeling of life in Austria) that will have you falling in love with this village.
The locals are so friendly and will welcome you with open arms, helping you to discover the alternative side of this sporty village, from the healthy, organic cuisine to the many opportunities to recharge in nature.
Where to stay in St. Anton
A visit to St. Anton is as much about rest and rejuvenation as it is adrenaline-pumping activities.
Far away from the stresses of everyday life, St. Anton is a destination where you can unwind in nature, and what better place to do that than in a spa hotel?
I mean, I couldn’t think of a better place to be after a big mountain day!
I stayed at Schwarzer Adler, a four-star hotel known its for family heritage and superior hospitality.
The hotel promises unforgettable moments, whether it’s through its gorgeous rooms, delicious cuisine, or panoramic sky pool.
It also prides itself on its sustainable credentials, with 100% of its electricity coming from hydropower!
Day One in St. Anton
Early morning: Valluga Viewing Platform
After a delicious hotel breakfast, day one of my trip began by getting a bird’s eye view of the village by heading up 2,811 metres above sea level to Valluga Viewing Platform.
From here, I enjoyed the most spectacular 360-degree views over the mountains and it was the perfect start to the trip!
To ascend, jump onboard the Galzigbahn gondola to the Galzig, before embarking on a further two cable cars (Vallugabahn I and Vallugabahn II) to the platform.
With the St. Anton Premium Card, you can enjoy free and unlimited use of all cable cars in the village so I’d highly recommend buying one!
Late morning: Hike the Mutsperen Trail
For an easy family-friendly walk with incredible views, look no further than the Mutsperen Trail on Galzig Mountain.
It’s just a short 5km circular trail and along the way, you’ll be treated to lots of interactive stations for kids young and old to play on.
Even if you don’t have kids, I’d highly recommend the trail as the views are pretty special!
Midday: Lunch at Galzig Restaurant
Before heading back down to St. Anton, it’s time to refuel!
Head to the incredible Galzig Restaurant for delicious drinks, Austrian delicacies, and international classics.
One of my favourite things about the village was how much it blew me away with its vegan options, and Galzig Restaurant was no exception.
I enjoyed an amazing seitan strudel which blew me away!
Afternoon: Hike back down to St. Anton
After you’ve sufficiently refuelled, it’s time for a 7km walk back down to St. Anton and the views were all kinds of dreamy!
The path took us past lakes, through thick forest, and through the Wonder Walking Trail which is perfect for little ones.
Evening: Dinner at the hotel
My favourite thing about the hotel was the plethora of plant-based options available at their restaurant which was much-needed after a long day of exploring.
I was treated to the most gorgeous four-course vegan dinners as part of my stay, and every course was delectable.
Day Two in St. Anton
Late morning/early afternoon: Hike to Verwallsee
If you thought the views from yesterday couldn’t get any better, think again!
Our second day hike took us to Verwallsee, an eye-catching emerald green reservoir surrounded by thick forest.
I joined a 12km guided hike with the friendliest hiking guide from the tourism office who took us from St. Anton to Verwallsee and back.
It was a reasonably easy trail following a gorge with only 300 metres of elevation gain.
However, if you wanted to cut the hike in half, you can get a bus back from the lake, or alternatively, there’s a great road to cycle there if you fancy it!
Once at the reservoir, you’ll find a 35-metre long steel cable suspension bridge offering breathtaking views of the rushing waters of the River Rosanna below.
Plus, while you can’t swim in the reservoir, there are some wild swimming opportunities available here in some of the waterfalls!
Late afternoon: Enjoy the hotel spa
After a couple of busy hiking days, I think it’s about time you enjoyed the hotel spa, right?!
Before heading to the spa, I enjoyed a gorgeous spaghetti dish from Galzig Bistro Bar in town, and then it was time to don my robe and slippers and enjoy the spa!
There’s plenty to enjoy here, from the heavenly outdoor sky pool, indoor pool, and a steam bath, to several saunas, infrared cabins, and an impressive gym.
They also offer a selection of beauty treatments and massages for those who want to elevate their spa experience even more.
Afterwards, I ended my time in St. Anton on a high with yet another brilliant four-course dinner in Schwarzer Adler, served by the friendliest waters.
What’s not to love?!