Where in Carinthia Can You Best Enjoy an Active Holiday?
Carinthia, Austria’s sunny south, is a paradise for outdoor lovers. With its clear lakes, gentle mountains and mild climate, it offers endless ways to stay active – from hiking and cycling to paddling or swimming. In this article, you’ll discover where in Carinthia you can best enjoy an active holiday and why the region is perfect for families, couples and nature enthusiasts.
This article, ‘Where in Carinthia can you best enjoy an active holiday?’, was written by René Schwarte, founder of Ferienhaus-Tirol.eu.
Why Carinthia Is Ideal for an Active Holiday
Carinthia combines Alpine beauty with a southern touch.
With more sunshine than anywhere else in Austria, outdoor life thrives here. The air is fresh, the lakes are crystal clear, and the trails are endless – a mix of adventure and calm.
Highlights:
- Warm climate & lots of sunshine
- Excellent hiking and cycling network
- Lakes with drinking-water quality
- Family-friendly activities
- Wide choice of holiday homes close to nature
1. Hiking in the Nockberge Biosphere Park
The Nockberge Mountains form the heart of Carinthia’s hiking paradise – rolling peaks, alpine meadows and panoramic views.
Top Trails:
- Alpe-Adria Trail – 750 km from the Grossglockner to the Adriatic Sea
- Nockberge Höhenweg – ridge trail above Lake Millstatt
- Thermenweg Bad Kleinkirchheim – a blend of hiking and wellness
Afterwards, unwind in the Römerbad or St. Kathrein spas in Bad Kleinkirchheim.
👉 Learn more in Which Are the Most Beautiful Towns and Villages in Carinthia?
2. Cycling the Drau Cycle Path
The Drau Cycle Path (Drauradweg) is one of Europe’s most scenic long-distance routes.
Stretching 510 km from Italy to Slovenia, it passes right through the heart of Carinthia. Mostly flat and well-signposted, it’s perfect for families.
Along the way, you’ll find picnic areas, bathing lakes and towns like Spittal an der Drau and Villach.
Tip: Rent an e-bike and combine your ride with a boat trip on Lake Millstatt.
3. Water Adventures on Carinthia’s Lakes
Summer in Carinthia means water fun.
Lakes like Wörthersee, Millstätter See, Ossiacher See and Faaker See reach 25 °C and are among the cleanest in Europe.
Things to do:
- Stand-up paddling at Wörthersee
- Kayaking on Ossiacher See
- Sailing on Millstätter See
- Wakeboarding at Faaker See
Cafés, beaches and walking trails surround every lake – perfect for relaxation after activity.
👉 Cool off at the most beautiful lakes of Carinthia
4. Mountain Adventures & Summer Toboggan Runs
Take a gondola up to Carinthia’s mountains and enjoy panoramic views above 2 000 m.
Top Areas:
Gerlitzen Alpe – views of Lake Ossiach
Goldeck – near Spittal an der Drau
Turracher Höhe – alpine lake & summer toboggan
Nassfeld – zipline and MTB trails
Stop at mountain huts for local dishes like Kasnudeln and Speckbrot.
5. Family Fun in Nature
Carinthia is perfect for families who love to explore together.
Many resorts offer children’s programs and nature parks.
Family Highlights:
Pressegger See Adventure Park – beach and climbing park
Nocky Flitzer alpine coaster on Turracher Höhe
Alpine Coaster Nassfeld – fun for all ages
Minimundus Klagenfurt – the world in miniature
Every day brings new discoveries – safe and surrounded by nature.
Holiday Homes in Carinthia
Find your ideal stay on Ferienhaus-Tirol.eu.
From lake apartments to mountain chalets, browse verified holiday homes in Carinthia for families and couples.
Why Choose an Active Holiday in Carinthia?
- More sunshine than anywhere in Austria
- Hiking, cycling and swimming for all levels
- Crystal-clear lakes and fresh mountain air
- Ideal for families, Find more inspiration in Discover Carinthia
- Wide choice of holiday homes
Summary & Invitation
Whether you love hiking, cycling or simply relaxing by the lake – Carinthia offers the perfect blend of adventure and peace.
After a day of hiking or cycling, a holiday home in Austria is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the alpine sunset.
Plan your active holiday in Carinthia with Ferienhaus-Tirol.eu and discover Austria’s sunny south.
Frequently Asked Questions about Active Holidays in Carinthia
What can you do during an active holiday in Carinthia?
You can hike, cycle, paddle, climb and swim. The region offers 1 200 km of hiking trails and hundreds of cycling routes.
Which areas are best for hiking and cycling?
The Nockberge Biosphere Park and the Drau Cycle Path are top choices – with mountain views, lakes and charming villages.
Is Carinthia good for families?
Yes! There are family-friendly trails, toboggan runs and safe beaches for children.
Where’s the best place to stay during an active holiday?
A holiday home in Carinthia is ideal – around Villach, Millstatt or Bad Kleinkirchheim, close to nature and activities.
Read more about Your Holiday in Carinthia
- Discover Carinthia – Austria’s Sunny South
- The Most Beautiful Lakes of Carinthia – swim, paddle and relax by the water.
- Where to Ski in Carinthia? – snow-sure resorts and winter fun for all.
- Which Are the Most Beautiful Towns and Villages in Carinthia? – discover culture and charm across the region.
- What Makes Carinthia So Great for Families with Children? – a perfect place for fun and relaxation for all ages.
My name is René Schwarte, founder and co-owner of Ferienhaus-Tirol.eu. With many years of experience in holiday home rentals and deep familiarity with international guest expectations, I understand what makes a vacation truly enjoyable.
Ferienhaus-Tirol.eu offers a wide selection of carefully curated holiday homes, chalets and group accommodations throughout Austria. Whether you're travelling as a couple or with a group of up to 50 people – we help you find the right place with ease.
Our website is available in English, German and Dutch. We speak your language and are happy to assist you with any questions or special requests.
Need help?
Feel free to get in touch – we're here to make your Austrian holiday unforgettable.
Phone: +31854016545 Mail: info@Ferienhaus-Tirol.eu
René Schwarte
Co-OWNER
