Camping Guide | Salzkammergut

The Salzkammergut stretches across the three federal states of Upper Austria, Salzburg, and Styria, placing it in the heart of Austria. Characterized by numerous lakes and mountains, the region offers a unique natural landscape. Arrival is straightforward, both by car and by public transport. By car, you can best reach the Salzkammergut via the A1, A8, and A9 motorways. Coming from Munich, take the A8 towards Salzburg. After the border, cross the A1 and take the Mondsee or St. Gilgen exit, depending on your destination. Toll fees for Austria are approx. €9.60 for a 10-day vignette. From Frankfurt, the A3 and A8 are recommended; the journey takes about 6-7 hours. Travelers from Hamburg take the A7 and A9, with a driving time of approx. 9-10 hours. From Vienna, you can reach the Salzkammergut via the A1 in about 3 hours, and from Zurich, the journey via the A1 and A8 takes about 6 hours. Alternatively, traveling by train is a great option. The nearest airport is Salzburg (SZG). From there, buses and trains run regularly to the various towns in the Salzkammergut. The train connections are well-developed, and you can reach many places directly or with a short transfer. For example, there are hourly connections from Salzburg to Bad Ischl. Those traveling from further away can take the ICE to Salzburg and change there. The train stations in larger towns like Gmunden, Bad Ischl, and St. Wolfgang are well-connected to the regional bus network. Locally, you can get around easily with buses and trains. Especially in the summer months, boats operate regularly on the lakes, providing a comfortable and picturesque way to travel. For shorter distances, bicycles are ideal and can be rented in many towns. Some campsites also offer a shuttle service to the nearest train stations or attractions.

The Salzkammergut can be roughly divided into different sub-regions, each with its own charm and character. Each of these zones offers different possibilities for your camping holiday. The northern Salzkammergut, around Lake Mondsee and Lake Attersee, is particularly popular with families and water sports enthusiasts. Here you will find numerous campsites directly on the lakeshore, which are ideal for children with their shallow banks. Places like Mondsee and Unterach offer cultural sights and a lively gastronomy alongside swimming opportunities. Lake Attersee is known for its excellent wind conditions, making it a paradise for sailors and windsurfers. Those who prefer it a bit quieter will find numerous hiking trails in the surrounding mountains. The eastern Salzkammergut, with Lake Traunsee as its center, is an Eldorado for active vacationers. Gmunden, the town with the Seeschloss Ort castle, is a popular excursion destination. Here you can not only explore the historic old town but also take a boat trip on Lake Traunsee or ride the cable car up the Grünberg. Lake Traunsee itself offers numerous opportunities for sailing, diving, and stand-up paddling. For hikers and mountain bikers, there is a well-developed network of trails around the lake. The southern Salzkammergut, around Bad Ischl and Lake Wolfgangsee, is shaped by its imperial past. Bad Ischl, the former summer residence of Emperor Franz Joseph, attracts visitors with its magnificent villas and parks. Lake Wolfgangsee is a popular destination for families and couples. St. Wolfgang, St. Gilgen, and Strobl are charming villages with numerous hotels, restaurants, and shops. A ride on the Schafbergbahn, Austria's steepest rack railway, is an unforgettable experience. The western Salzkammergut, with Lake Hallstatt and the Dachstein massif, is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Hallstatt, the picturesque village on the lakeshore, is a popular tourist destination. Here you can visit the bone house, take a boat trip on the lake, or explore the salt mines. The Dachstein massif offers numerous opportunities for hiking, climbing, and skiing. In winter, the region is a popular destination for skiers and snowboarders. No matter which sub-region you choose, the Salzkammergut offers the right choice for every taste. Whether you want to spend a relaxed camping holiday by the lake or actively explore the mountains, you will find everything your heart desires here.

The camping landscape in the Salzkammergut is diverse and offers the right pitch for every taste and budget. In total, there are about 150 campsites in the region, many of which are located directly on one of the numerous lakes. Here you will find large resort sites with pools and entertainment as well as small, nature-oriented sites that are ideal for those seeking peace and quiet. The large resort sites often offer an extensive infrastructure with swimming pools, restaurants, supermarkets, and entertainment programs for children. These sites are particularly popular with families who value comfort and entertainment. The smaller, nature-oriented sites, on the other hand, are characterized by their quiet location and proximity to nature. Here you can relax away from the hustle and bustle and enjoy the beauty of the Salzkammergut. Agriturismo or farm camping is also an option, where you have the opportunity to buy regional products directly from the producer. Prices for a pitch in the Salzkammergut vary depending on the season, location, and equipment. In the high season (July and August), you should expect prices between €30 and €50 per night for a pitch. In the low season (May, June, September), prices are often significantly cheaper, ranging between €20 and €35 per night. The plots are usually sufficiently large and offer space for a motorhome, tent, or caravan. Many sites have pitches with shade, but sunny spots are also available. The infrastructure at the campsites in the Salzkammergut is generally good. The sanitary facilities are clean and well-maintained, and there are often washing machines and dryers. Wi-Fi quality varies, but internet access is available at most sites. The power supply is usually sufficient (6-16 amps). A reservation is recommended, especially in the high season, as the most popular sites are often fully booked. While there are always last-minute chances, you shouldn't rely on them. Camping in the Salzkammergut is a great way to experience the region in an intensive and nature-oriented way. Whether you are traveling with family, as a couple, or alone, you are guaranteed to find the right campsite for your dream holiday.

For a successful camping holiday in the Salzkammergut, it is important to know some practical information. Here you will find the most important details regarding toll fees, gas stations, shopping, gas supply, disposal, mobile networks, medical care, rules, and drinking water. Toll fees: In Austria, a vignette is mandatory on motorways and expressways. The cost for a 10-day vignette is approx. €9.60. You can purchase the vignette at gas stations and rest areas near the border. For some sections, such as the Bosruck Tunnel on the A9, an additional route toll is charged. Payment is made in cash or by credit card. Gas stations: The gas station network in the Salzkammergut is well-developed. Diesel prices are generally slightly higher than in Germany but are often within the European average. Opening hours vary, but in larger towns, there are also 24-hour gas stations. Shopping: There are numerous supermarkets in the Salzkammergut, including well-known chains like Lidl, Eurospar, and Billa. Opening hours are usually Monday to Friday from 7:30 AM to 7:00 PM and Saturday from 7:30 AM to 6:00 PM. Some supermarkets are also open on Sundays, especially in tourist areas. It is also worth visiting the regional farmers' markets, where you can buy fresh products directly from the producer. Gas supply: German gas cylinders cannot simply be exchanged in Austria. You will either need an adapter or you can have your cylinder filled locally. Some campsites also offer a gas cylinder service. Disposal: Most campsites in the Salzkammergut have disposal stations for wastewater and chemical toilets. These are usually well-signposted and easily accessible. Public disposal stations are also available. Mobile network: Network coverage in the Salzkammergut is good, but there may be limitations in some remote areas. The roaming situation is unproblematic within the EU, but check your provider's fees beforehand. Medical care: There are hospitals and pharmacies in the larger towns. Medical care is at a high level. In an emergency, dial the emergency number 144. Rules: Wild camping is strictly prohibited in the Salzkammergut and is punished with high fines. Observe local camping regulations and adhere to environmental zones. Open fires are prohibited in many areas. Drinking water: The tap water in the Salzkammergut is of high quality and can be drunk without hesitation.

Away from the well-known tourist paths, there are still many undiscovered treasures to find in the Salzkammergut. Here are some insider tips to make your camping holiday an unforgettable experience. Low season advantages: The months of May, June, and September are ideal for a visit to the Salzkammergut. During this time, it is less crowded, prices are lower, and the weather is often very pleasant. In May and June, the meadows and fields are in full bloom, while in September, the forests glow in the most beautiful autumn colors. Lesser-known places and beaches: Instead of going to Hallstatt, you should take a trip to Gosau. Lake Gosausee is idyllically situated at the foot of the Dachstein and offers numerous hiking trails. The shore area of the lake is also less crowded. You can also find a beautiful swimming beach on the eastern shore of Lake Attersee, near Nußdorf. Local markets and direct sales: Every Friday, a weekly market takes place in Bad Ischl, where you can buy regional products such as cheese, sausage, bread, and vegetables. Many farms also offer their products directly from the farm gate. A visit is worthwhile to get to know the culinary diversity of the region. Local festivals and events: In August, the Goiserer Gamsjagatage takes place in Bad Goisern, a traditional festival with a parade and music. In September, the Seefest is celebrated in St. Wolfgang, a large folk festival with fireworks and concerts. Culinary tips: Be sure to try the Salzkammergut trout, a regional specialty offered in many restaurants. The Goiserer Zipf, a hearty stew with meat and vegetables, is also highly recommended. For dessert, you should treat yourself to a Kaiserschmarrn or a Salzburger Nockerl. Locals' restaurants/bars: Gasthaus Ramsau in Bad Goisern is a popular destination for locals. It serves traditional Austrian cuisine at fair prices. The Seegasthof Gamsjaga in Gosau is also worth a visit. Bar Lenz in Bad Ischl is a popular meeting place for young and old. Day trips: A day trip to Salzburg is highly recommended. The city can be reached in about 1 hour by car or train. Visit the Hohensalzburg Fortress, Mirabell Palace, and the Getreidegasse. The ride on the Schafbergbahn from St. Wolfgang offers a breathtaking view over the entire Salzkammergut. You should plan about 3-4 hours for the excursion and expect costs of about 40 euros per person.