Dachstein Tauern Region – unlimited vacation pleasure in winter and summer
In the Dachstein Tauern region, set between the magnificent southern flanks of Mount Dachstein and the Schladminger Tauern range, you will find a wealth of leisure opportunities, Styrian hospitality and a taste of the region’s very own charm. Whether skiing or hiking - the area invites you to come and discover your favorite mountain.
The Dachstein Tauern region is part of the vast ’ Ski amadé’ ski region and counts among Austria’s top 5 winter sports destinations. One reason for this is the region’s endless number of slopes and lifts – 224 km of beautifully groomed ski runs can be conveniently accessed by 97 excellent modern cable cars and chair lifts. The Schladming 4-mountain lift system which links the famous Hauser Kaibling, Planai, Hochwurzen und Reiteralm mountains opens up a whole new dimension in skiing pleasure. 
All-season skiing is possible on the impressive Dachstein glacier. The ride on the cable car up the most eastern glacier in the Alps is an adventure on its own and provides terrific panoramic views. Leisurely skiers will find the smaller ski areas, namely Rittisberg, Fageralm, Galsterbergalm, Stoderzinken, Riesneralm and Planneralm, to be a special treat.
In the Dachstein Tauern region there is also plenty of scope for cross-country skiers who may enjoy 484 km of perfectly groomed classic and skating tracks. Particularly known for its first-rate cross-country skiing is the village of Ramsau am Dachstein, which has become Austria’s center of Nordic skiing – not only since hosting the 1999 Nordic Ski World Championships.
Every year the area offers a special deal for families – the amadé family Easter bargain. From March 19, free ski passes for children up to 15 years (up to age group 1989) are available if one parent purchases a 6-day adult ski pass.
Also in the summer the Dachstein Tauern region, known to be the ’valley of thousand springs’ enchants visitors with fabulous water pleasures and adventures.  The unspoilt surroundings with over 300 mountain lakes, 100 small and massive water falls and more than 1,000 springs invite visitors to take advantage of fantastic hiking on 770 km of trails which is sure to bring relaxation and fitness to body and mind.
What’s more, the versatile summer sports destination is one of Austria’s favorite cycling and mountain biking meccas. Certainly not to be missed by professional bikers and cycle buffs alike is the Mountain Bike Championship in Schladming/Planai which will take place in June. Not only traditional outdoor pursuits such as golf, tennis or horse riding but also trend sports such as Nordic walking, running, paragliding, white-water rafting or canoe trekking are part of the exhilarating opportunities guests may enjoy in the region.
In the heart of the Dachstein Tauern region lies the Gröbminger Land, consisting of the climatic health resorts of Gröbming and Mitterberg, which proudly name themselves the jewel of the Dachstein Tauern region. Ideal for a relaxing break amidst fresh air and terrific scenery, the Gröbminger Land offers a superb range of activities, from gentle family walks to demanding mountain climbing tours.
In Gröbming Mount Stoderzinken is well worth to be explored via Styria’s most scenic and highest alpine road. A short stroll to the famous Friedenskircherl church rewards with fabulous views of the Dachstein Tauern mountain world. Mountain bikers prefer the exhilarating mountain tracks of the Gröbminger Land – for instance the 40-km Viehbergalm tour covering the area around Mount Kamm and the spectacular Öfen gorge. In the winter, Mount Stoderzinken is a popular choice with locals and visitors alike; particularly families and nature lovers will be provided with a fine winter sports experience.
In recent years, the Gröbminger Land has made a name for itself internationally as a venue for top events. Under the motto ’driving in the last paradise’, the Ennstal Classic, a mountain race across splendid alpine scenery, has become a cult event for classic car fans. |