Bad Gastein Guide

The Gastein valley lies an hour South of Salzburg in the heart of the majestic Austrian Alps. These mountains are what make the town of Bad Gastein such a great escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, whether you like throwing yourself down them in winter, throwing yourself off them with a bit of cloth attached to your back (all year round) or conquering them on foot or by pedal power during the summer months.

Along with the mountains, the town is famous for it’s healing thermal waters which attracted nobility from all over Europe in years gone by, which in turn brought a wealth which can still be seen in the elegance of the Belle-Epoque architecture. The fantastic thermal baths are located right next to the Euro Youth Hotel and all guests enjoy a discount there, with an especially generous discount for dorm guests.

Skiing and Snowboarding:

There are over 200 km of piste spread over 4 ski areas in the Gastein Valley alone. The largest area with the greatest variety is accessible from the gondola right across the road from the Hostel. The other areas, going up to 2700 m are readily accessible by bus from just outside the hostel. A Full Day’s Lift Pass costs around EUR 40.

BED and BOARD The Euro Youth Hotel has great packages on offer in winter including dorm bed, breakfast, board/ski and boot hire from as little as EUR 23,50.

Cross country skiing is an alternative for those not content to rely on gravity for propulsion. It is also quick and easy to learn, even for complete novices.

For detailed price list, see the Ski Pass Calculator

View the Bad Gastein Ski Map and Trails - Map 1 Map 2 Map 3

Hiking

Spectacular trails for novices and experienced hikers alike start from the Hostel.
Breathtaking views, fresh air, mountain meadows, cowbells, glaciers, wildlife, mountain inns… don’t forget the camera.

Mountain Biking

See Hiking but harder work going up and more fun coming down.  Bikes for hire through the hostel for EUR 10 / day.

Paragliding

Take the Gondel lift up to the Flying Eldorado Dorfgastein, strap a man with a parachute to your back and jump! There’s an exclusively reserved landing space too – just so you don’t have to worry about landing on assorted sheep and skiers. Special offers for hostel guests.

Rafting and Canyoning

WET WET WET. Canyoning and Rafting amidst stunning Alpine scenery. Not for the faint of hearted !  Prices start from EUR 35!

Archery

A quick introduction and a round of stuffed animals to shoot at in a wooded setting adjacent to a nearby beergarden. At EUR 8 a real bargain !

Must See and Do