Think of luxury and it’s easy to picture five-star hotels and fine dining, but a break in the Capital of the Alps enables guests to indulge in a quieter splendor, which reconnects with nature and offers the opportunity to fully relax.
Experience the concept of natural luxury in Innsbruck this summer, a city surrounded by mountains, crystal-clear natural lakes and beautiful alpine spas.
Guided by the classical elements, water, air, fire and earth, here are four ways to elevate your summer in the region.
Water: Dive in, cool off and reinvigorate
There’s something deeply relaxing about swimming in fresh mountain water on a hot summer’s day. The Innsbruck region is dotted with open-air pools and natural bathing spots, like the scenic Lanser See, surrounded by forest, or Telfer Bad, which offers a family-friendly atmosphere.
For something a little different, explore the revitalising effects of Kneipp hydrotherapy, a traditional method using cold-water immersion to stimulate circulation and awaken the senses. Dedicated Kneipp facilities in Gries im Sellrain and Igls offer an invigorating way to refresh mind and body.
Air: Breathe in that Alpine freshness
Pure, fresh air is nature’s tonic and its wellbeing qualities are often overlooked. The ancient pine trees (some over 100 years old) surrounding the Zirbenweg trail provide the perfect backdrop to enjoy this simple luxury. At 2,000 metres above sea level, this scenic path between Patscherkofel and Glungezer offers an aroma of pine - a scent often associated with calmness and relaxation.
For sweeping views and floral meadows, more experienced hikers will want to visit the Sonnkarköpfl. Starting at the Pfaffenhofer Alm mountain inn, this moderately difficult route takes you 2,250 metres above sea level.
Or simply roll out a yoga mat on the Rangger Köpfl, where sun salutations meet sun-drenched peaks. There’s not better backdrop than the Kalkkögel mountain chain for mindful movement.
Fire: Find warmth and energy in the Alps
After a day hiking or exploring, recharge at a mountain spa and utilise the heat of a sauna to relax those tired muscles. Hotel dasMEI in Mutters offers sleek wellness facilities, while Alpenresort Schwarz in Mieming welcomes day guests seeking a relaxing environment.
Alternatively, venture up the Nordkette Mountain, where visitors can visit the Seegrube, aptly named Innsbruck’s highest sun terrace. Quickly reach the Seegrube from the city by cable car in under half an hour.
Earth: Ground yourself in Innsbruck’s landscape
Sometimes the most luxurious thing of all is feeling the earth beneath your feet. Try a barefoot walk through the Viggartal valley, where grass and moss allow for a comfortable walk. For deeper grounding, forest bathing is a popular wellness activity in Austria and in places like the oak forest in Stams or the peaceful Kochental valley.
If you’re tempted to stay overnight among the trees, Innsbruck offers a range of campsites, including Gerhardhof in Wildermieming and Ferienparadies Natterer See, where nature is quite literally on your doorstep.
Colette Verra, Marketing Manager at Innsbruck Tourism said: “Today’s travellers are often burned out and looking for a physical and a mental break from the hustle and bustle of work life.
“With wellness becoming a form of luxury, visitors are often looking for activities that can ground them and provide rejuvenating experience and in the Innsbruck region, we have lots of relaxing activities on offer.
“Whether it’s a gentle hike, sunset yoga or even a dip in a natural lake, we have something for everyone.”
The Innsbruck Card gives visitors access to more than 22 top attractions, along with free use of the city’s reliable public transport and complimentary guided walking tours across the region.
Guests staying two nights or more in partner accommodations receive the Innsbruck Welcome Card for free, offering access to transport and making it easy to move from the vibrant city centre to the Alpine outdoors for hiking, cycling or swimming.
More information about the Innsbruck Card and the Innsbruck Welcome Card, including prices and what is included, is available online at www.innsbruck.info/innsbruckcard
