As in the past year, many people will continue to spend their leisure time in nature in 2021. Therefore also the Hiking is becoming more and more popular, whether in the lowlands, in the low mountain ranges or in the Alps. Consciously perceive the landscape and be active at the same time: Hiking tours are the perfect outdoor activity at a time when gyms are closed and travel is often complicated. And hiking is also slowly but surely becoming a big trend.

This is why we love hiking

The fact that hiking is somewhat out of fashion is considered passé, at the latest since numerous Hollywood movies and bestselling novels on the subject. And at the latest since we have had to completely turn our lives around due to the pandemic and have found other ways to provide balance and exercise. If you go hiking, you can switch off in a world where everything always has to go fast, and do something good for your body and mind. Because while you take a leisurely stroll, a challenging uphill walk or an adventure in alpine terrain, you can enjoy a break from the stress of everyday life and discover the beauty of nature at the same time.

The trend sport 2021

After the usual places where you can work out are currently closed, many people have started to stay in motion outdoors. Either alone or in a group, the most beautiful hiking routes can be explored. The fact that the trend is becoming increasingly popular is also noticeable in the outdoor clothing departments of department stores and online shops. Because the selection of functional clothing and hiking boots has never been as diverse (and stylish!) as it is now.

The hiking checklist

If you are going on a longer hike, here are some things to watch out for:

• The right clothing: whether a leisurely walk on the mountain or an adventurous hike to a high peak; the right clothing is important. This should consist of sturdy footwear, functional clothing that protects against wind, rain, snow and sun and, in low temperatures, gloves and a hat. A change of shirt is also recommended, as cold sweat can become unhealthy on the descent.
• Good equipment: if you equip yourself with sunglasses, sunscreen, pocket knife, flashlight, compass, map and climbing aids, nothing should happen to you!
• Sufficient provisions: it is also important to make sure that you stay hydrated. After all, you often head into areas where there is nothing but bushes and rocks. Enough water and light snacks are just as important as magnesium and electrolytes (in the form of tablets, fizzy drinks or beverages) in case you run out of strength.

5 of the most beautiful hiking routes in Austria

If Austria has one thing to offer; it's dreamlike landscapes where every hiker will be happy. From rolling hills, green alpine pastures, breathtaking mountain lakes or imposing rock formations that are ideal for climbing in addition to hiking. Especially Austria is very suitable for hiking routes, because the density of trails, viewpoints and peaks is unmistakable.

Here are five of the most beautiful tours in Austria:

Lake Altaussee Round

Place: Styria
Duration: approx. 2.5 hours, 6.3 kilometres
Difficulty: easy

The fantastic hiking trail starts in the centre of Altaussee and leads hikers directly along the shore around the lake. At the foot of the Loser, this route offers a spectacular backdrop of mountain and lake and is ideal for anyone who likes to take it a bit easier. Whichever way you turn; the sparkling water, unspoilt nature and the top of the mountain shine out at you, ensuring that you can escape from the daily grind. Hiking in the direction of the northern shore, you then slowly make your way back to the starting point below the Trisselwand.

Ragga Gorge

Place: Carinthia
Duration: approx. 2 hours, 3.4 kilometres
Difficulty: easy

The Ragga Gorge in Flattach is a must for anyone who wants to start hiking. Because in addition to thundering waterfalls, a lush natural landscape and imposing rock faces, you walk leisurely along breathtakingly beautiful footbridges. The mighty Raggabach stream makes its way through the gorge and can occasionally spill over the bank. Weatherproof clothing is therefore highly recommended! The hiking route leads through the 800-metre-long gorge, along a forest path and finally back to the starting point, which is in the Schmelzhütten district.

Krimml Waterfalls

Place: Salzburg
Duration: approx. 4 hours, 12.8 kilometres
Difficulty: medium

The route in Krimml is a little more demanding, along the famous Krimml Waterfalls. Starting point is the lowest waterfall, from there serpentines lead in a specially created waterfall path to the uppermost waterfall. The trail then continues into the Krimmer Achental valley, via the Staubige Reib, the Bergerblick and the Schettkanzel. There, vantage points offer a perfect panoramic view of the thundering natural spectacle. The bus takes you back to the starting point.

Almkogel round

Place: Upper Austria
Duration: approx. 3.5 hours, 11.9 kilometres
Difficulty: medium

Most people start the Almkogel round from the Scharflingerhöhe. Sturdy shoes and a good level of fitness are recommended, as the route is repeatedly interspersed with steeper stretches. Following the "Almkogel" signs, you hike on a mixture of stone and forest paths and occasionally have to cross a shallow stream bed. The route circles the entire Eibenberg mountain and offers a fantastic view of the Mondsee lake before returning to the starting point. 

Three-lake circular hike: Vilsalpsee - Traualpsee - Lache

Place: Tyrol
Duration: approx. 5 hours, 15 kilometres
Difficulty: difficult

The spectacular three-lake circular hike in the Tannhaimer starts at the Neunerköpfle valley station. From there you take the gondola to the top of the mountain. Immediately you are rewarded with a fantastic view of the Allgäu Alps. Then you walk along meadow slopes in the direction of Schochenspitze and you reach the Lach. Over the Lachenspitze you continue to the Landsbergerhütte and to the second stopover, the Traualpsee. Further down the valley, the Vilsalpsee stretches along the hiking route. This is particularly worth seeing as it is one of the most beautiful mountain lakes in the whole of Tyrol. Surrounded by a nature reserve, the region is considered an important habitat for rare plant and animal species. From there you either walk back or choose the bus.

Picture Credits: Holly Mandarich / Unsplash, StockSnap / Pixabay, David Mark / Pixabay, TeeFarm / Pixabay, Mario Haar / Pixabay, Hans Braxmeier / Pixabay, Lars Nissen / Pixabay