If you’re seeking adventure, breathtaking landscapes, and the freedom to explore at your own pace, there’s no better way to experience Austria than on a road trip in a campervan. Austria, with its stunning Alpine scenery, charming villages, and rich cultural heritage, offers a perfect backdrop for a memorable campervan journey. In this guide, we’ll take you through five of the most picturesque road trips in Austria, complete with key stops, route details, and camper-friendly places to stay.
1. The Romantic Austrian Lake District
Distance: Approximately 300 kilometers
Duration: 5-7 days
Route Highlights:
- Salzburg: Start your journey in the enchanting city of Salzburg, birthplace of Mozart. Explore the historic old town and its famous fortress, Hohensalzburg.
- Wolfgangsee: Drive to the beautiful Wolfgangsee, a serene lake surrounded by mountains. Don’t miss a visit to St. Wolfgang and a boat ride on the lake.
- Hallstatt: Continue to the postcard-perfect village of Hallstatt, known for its charming streets, salt mines, and stunning lake views.Gosausee: Make a detour to Gosausee, a glacial lake framed by the Dachstein Alps. The reflections of the mountains in the crystal-clear water are a photographer’s dream.
- Mondsee: Head to Mondsee, another picturesque lake, famous for its historic church where the Sound of Music wedding scene was filmed.
- Return to Salzburg: Complete the loop and return to Salzburg, perhaps stopping at Fuschlsee along the way.
Camper-Friendly Stops:
- Camping Nussbaumer: Located near Wolfgangsee, this campsite offers excellent facilities and stunning lake views.
- Camping am Hallstättersee: Camp right by Lake Hallstatt and wake up to the breathtaking scenery every morning.
The Romantic Austrian Lake District road trip offers a blend of natural beauty, culture, and history. From the musical heritage of Salzburg to the tranquility of Alpine lakes, this journey is sure to leave you with cherished memories.
2. The Alpine Adventure Loop
Distance: Approximately 500 kilometers
Duration: 7-10 days
Route Highlights:
- Innsbruck: Begin your adventure in Innsbruck, the capital of Tyrol. Explore its historic center, and don’t miss the Golden Roof.
- Alpbach: Drive to Alpbach, known as one of the most beautiful villages in Austria. Hike in the Alpbach Valley for stunning views.
- Zillertal: Head to Zillertal, a valley renowned for its outdoor activities. Go hiking, biking, or simply enjoy the mountain scenery.
- Grossglockner High Alpine Road: Embark on the world-famous Grossglockner High Alpine Road, winding through the Hohe Tauern National Park with awe-inspiring vistas.
- Kitzbühel: Continue to Kitzbühel, a charming town famous for its ski resort. In summer, it’s perfect for hiking and enjoying the alpine lifestyle.
- Sankt Johann in Tirol: Visit this lovely town surrounded by lush green meadows and explore its historic sites.
- Return to Innsbruck: Complete the loop and return to Innsbruck, taking in the beauty of the Austrian Alps one last time.
Camper-Friendly Stops:
- Camping Natterer See: Located near Innsbruck, this campsite offers excellent facilities and a picturesque lake.
- Camping Aufenfeld: A spacious campsite in Zillertal with numerous amenities and activities for campers.
The Alpine Adventure Loop is a road trip for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. From the heights of the Grossglockner to the quaint villages of Tyrol, this journey showcases the best of Austria’s alpine landscapes.
3. The Danube Discovery Trail
Distance: Approximately 400 kilometers
Duration: 6-8 days
Route Highlights:
- Vienna: Start in the capital city, Vienna, and explore its imperial palaces, museums, and vibrant culture.
- Krems: Head to Krems, a charming town in the Wachau Valley, known for its vineyards and historic architecture.
- Dürnstein: Visit Dürnstein, a picturesque village on the banks of the Danube, famous for its blue church and medieval charm.
- Melk: Explore Melk Abbey, a magnificent baroque masterpiece overlooking the river.
- Linz: Continue to Linz, a modern city with a rich history. Visit the Ars Electronica Center and explore the old town.
- Enns: Discover Enns, one of Austria’s oldest towns, with well-preserved medieval buildings.
- Return to Vienna: Complete the loop and return to Vienna, enjoying the scenic Danube landscapes along the way.
Camper-Friendly Stops:
- Donauinsel Camping: Located on an island in the Danube River, this campsite offers a tranquil setting close to Vienna.
- Camping Wachau: Nestled in the heart of the Wachau Valley, this campsite is perfect for exploring the region’s vineyards.
The Danube Discovery Trail takes you along the iconic Danube River, showcasing a mix of history, culture, and stunning riverfront landscapes. This road trip is perfect for those who appreciate the slower pace of river life.
4. The Austrian Castle Circuit
Distance: Approximately 400 kilometers
Duration: 6-8 days
Route Highlights:
- Graz: Begin in Graz, Austria’s second-largest city, and explore its historic old town, known for its well-preserved Renaissance architecture.
- Riegersburg: Visit Riegersburg Castle, perched atop a volcanic hill, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
- Burg Kreuzenstein: Head to Burg Kreuzenstein, a fairytale-like castle near Vienna, featuring a diverse collection of historical artifacts.
- Eisenstadt: Explore Esterházy Palace in Eisenstadt, known for its stunning baroque architecture and beautiful gardens.
- Schloss Ort: Visit Schloss Ort, a picturesque castle situated on an island in Lake Traunsee.
- Linz: Finish the circuit in Linz, where you can explore more of the city or continue your adventure.
Camper-Friendly Stops:
- Camping am Badesee: Located near Graz, this campsite offers a peaceful setting by a lake.
- Camping im Schlosspark: Stay near Eisenstadt at this campsite with excellent facilities.
The Austrian Castle Circuit offers a journey through time, as you explore the country’s impressive castles and palaces. Each castle on this route has a unique story to tell, making it a history enthusiast’s dream road trip.
5. The Eastern Alpine Loop
Distance: Approximately 600 kilometers
Duration: 10-12 days
Route Highlights:
- Klagenfurt: Start in Klagenfurt, the capital of Carinthia, and visit the beautiful Minimundus miniature park.
- Lake Bled (Slovenia): Take a short detour to Lake Bled, in neighboring Slovenia, known for its stunning island church and castle.
- Villach: Head to Villach, a charming town nestled in the Drau Valley, known for its thermal spas and outdoor activities.
- Heiligenblut: Drive to Heiligenblut at the foot of the Grossglockner, one of Austria’s highest peaks. Hike or take a cable car for breathtaking views.
- Lienz: Continue to Lienz, a picturesque town in East Tyrol, surrounded by mountains. Explore the old town and nearby Dolomite peaks.
- Graz: Conclude your journey in Graz, with its captivating blend of history and modernity.
Camper-Friendly Stops:
- Camping Klagenfurt am Wörthersee: Located near Klagenfurt, this campsite offers lakefront views and easy access to the city.
- Camping Winkl-Landthal: Stay in a tranquil setting near Lienz, surrounded by the beauty of the Austrian Alps.
The Eastern Alpine Loop takes you through the stunning landscapes of Carinthia, the Hohe Tauern National Park, and East Tyrol. It’s a road trip that offers a mix of outdoor adventure, cultural exploration, and relaxation.
Essential Tips for Your Campervan Road Trip in Austria
Before you embark on your campervan adventure in Austria, here are some essential tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey:
1. Plan Ahead
While the freedom of a campervan allows for spontaneity, it’s wise to plan your route, key stops, and campsite reservations in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
2. Respect Nature and Regulations
Austria’s pristine landscapes are its treasure, so always follow Leave No Trace principles. Observe local regulations and camping rules, and dispose of waste responsibly.
3. Stock Up on Supplies
Ensure your campervan is well-equipped with necessary supplies, including food, water, and camping gear. Some remote areas may have limited access to stores.
4. Check Road Conditions
Austria’s mountainous terrain can lead to challenging road conditions, especially in winter. Check weather and road conditions, and equip your campervan accordingly.
5. Learn Basic German Phrases
While English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas, learning a few basic German phrases can be helpful and appreciated by locals.
6. Embrace Local Cuisine
Don’t miss the opportunity to savor Austrian cuisine, including schnitzels, strudels, and delicious pastries. Explore local restaurants and markets along your route.
7. Stay Safe
Ensure your campervan is in good working order before your trip. Have emergency tools, a first aid kit, and a reliable communication device on hand.
8. Be Mindful of Wildlife
Austria’s natural beauty includes diverse wildlife. Drive cautiously, especially in remote areas, to protect both animals and yourself.
9. Connect with Locals
Austrians are known for their hospitality. Don’t hesitate to engage with locals, ask for recommendations, and immerse yourself in the culture.
10. Enjoy the Journey
Lastly, remember that a campervan road trip is as much about the journey as the destinations. Take your time, soak in the scenery, and create lasting memories.
Start Your Austrian Campervan Adventure
A campervan road trip in Austria offers an immersive way to experience the country’s diverse landscapes, rich history, and warm hospitality. Whether you choose to explore the lakes, conquer the Alps, follow the Danube, discover castles, or venture into the eastern alpine region, you’re guaranteed an unforgettable journey.
Pack your bags, map out your route, and hit the open road in your campervan. Austria awaits, with its enchanting beauty and endless opportunities for adventure. Don’t just dream about it—start planning your Austrian campervan adventure today!