The best way to explore the beauty of the local mountains is from above, no question about it. Indeed, there is nothing more exciting than climbing the clouds and discovering the fascination of the local mountains from this exciting perspective.

In addition to the positive effects of mountain air on health, there are also multi-faceted "air sports". The classic is flying, whether by glider, paraglider or balloon. While paragliding should be reserved for daredevils and brave guests, ballooning (actually one should speak of "driving") releases far less adrenaline. There are countless balloon flights on offer in the Alpine region - from short flights to flights across the Alps, whether over the mountains or cities. Balloon rides are also possible at all times of the day and year, provided the weather is stable.

CLIMBING IS THE TREND

Climbing and bouldering are also high up in the air. These sports have long since ceased to be marginal, as can be seen from the numerous climbing gyms sprouting up like mushrooms in urban areas. Climbing is therefore very much in vogue. Decades ago, this sport was indeed reserved for daredevils and individualists, but now more and more people are venturing into these effective sports. Via ferrata routes are also popular: year after year, new step clamps are hammered into the rocks and steel ropes are attached in various destinations. The desire for direct mountain sports continues to grow. Especially for guests who dare to try climbing for the first time, the company of a competent guide is highly recommended. With expert supervision by a certified mountain guide, nothing can stand in the way of such an adventure. 

BEST OF HOTELS

THE EDELWEISS SALZBURG MOUNTAIN RESORT
THE SUPERLATIVE OF THE TAILOR-MADE EXPERIENCE

High up and over crystal-clear lakes or snow-covered peaks with one of the new "EDELWEISS Experiences": From the reopening of the resort, guests of the hotel have the opportunity to discover the impressive natural landscapes around the exclusive hotel from a new perspective. Thanks to the cooperation with Senn Air, you can conveniently book a breathtaking helicopter flight at the hotel. But even apart from this offer, The "EDELWEISS Mountain Resort", situated at the foot of the mountain world of the Grossarl Valley, is the ideal retreat for active people, those seeking relaxation and connoisseurs. The credo of the Hettegger host family, the third generation to run the luxurious resort, is clear: "The future of hospitality has deep roots." From vision to reality, from hotel to resort: since 2019, guests can expect a modern new building with spacious suites in alpine style as well as the 7000 square meter (!) "EDELWEISS Mountain Spa" including an indoor aqua park, two outdoor pools, various saunas and separate areas for families and adults. The "EDELWEISS Mountain Resort" is also top in culinary matters: The hood kitchen focuses on the use of local ingredients. Further culinary highlights are promised by the "Marktplatz", the fine dining restaurant and the new steak restaurant "Sirloin". Wine connoisseurs will get their money's worth in the wine bar "Kork & Gloria". As a culinary highlight, a wide variety of sushi variations are now also offered there. Tip: The partner company HLK offers a luxurious
Arrival by limousine. Double room from € 180,- including "Genuss-Kulinarik".

Edelweiss Mountain Resort*****
Unterbergstraße 65, 5611 Großarl, Austria
T: +43 6414 3000
edelweiss-grossarl.com

HOTEL LAGREIN
AN OASIS IN THE MIDDLE OF APPLE ORCHARDS AND VINEYARDS

In a quiet, unspoilt location in Schenna, nestled in a picturesque landscape of rolling hills, you will find the Hotel Lagrein. The name is a tribute to the red grape variety of the same name, which was previously cultivated at the hotel's location. In the garden paradise with its impressive flora, you can quickly find a preferred spot for enjoyment - in the panoramic pool, the "Lagrein arbour", the sky swing, the chill zone by the persimmon tree or in the extravagant daybed - the breathtaking landscape of the Adige Valley always in view. A breakfast on the panorama terrace is also recommended. The rooms of the house have been newly renovated. The Merano region is known for its many opportunities to experience action-packed days. Paragliding, among other things, can be organised at the hotel. As a partner hotel of the Lana Golf Club, guests also enjoy special conditions on the green. Double room from € 132,- with breakfast.

Hotel Lagrein****
Via Schenna 54, 39017 Schenna, Italy
T: +39 0473 945781
hotellagrein.com

Our top tips:

High altitude air: Ideal for allergy sufferers
No pollen and dust mites: the fresh, clear air at alpine altitudes creates perfect conditions for allergy sufferers.

Cool high ropes courses
Thrills are simply part and parcel of Tyrolean high ropes courses. Here in the west of Austria, there is a wide selection for all levels of ability as well as all preferences in almost all summer tourism destinations. tirol.at

Better sleep
Studies prove it: the quality of sleep increases after physical activity at high altitudes in the Alps.

Apps that can be very helpful ...
The weather should always be kept in mind when traveling in the mountains, because it can change very quickly at high altitudes. Unfortunately, this often has dramatic consequences. Apps are therefore recommended, with which the weather events can always be followed up to date. Some tips are: Bergfex, Weather Online, Meteoblue or Rain Radar. Also good: Always ask the locals - they know their surroundings and usually already know from the gut when a descent is wiser than an ascent.

Birdwatching - the new trend
The meditative outdoor hobby of birdwatching does not only fascinate ornithologists. A predestined area for this and not for nothing very popular with the international birdwatching scene is the natural area of Lake Neusiedl. The 180 km² steppe lake, its reed belt and the lakes in the region are breeding grounds, resting places and also retreats for more than 300 bird species. Birds of prey, such as golden eagles and bearded vultures, can be explored in the Hohe Tauern National Park.
neusiedlersee.com, hohetauern.at

GOOD TO KNOW

14.3 kilogram
At rest, we inhale and exhale 0.5 litres of air per breath, or about ten cubic metres per day, which is equivalent to 14.3 kilos.

The air is getting thin
From 3000 m the air becomes already noticeably thinner, above 8000 m only 32 % of the oxygen content is available.

The shortest route
The flight from Altenrhein on Lake Constance to Friedrichshafen is the shortest scheduled international flight in the world.

The first fliers ...
... were balloonists: 1783 saw the premiere over Versailles.