Located in the heart of the Austrian state of Styria, Hohentauern is a high-altitude paradise that feels like a well-kept secret. At 1,274 meters, it is one of the highest villages in the Tauern Mountains and offers a rugged, authentic Alpine experience far from the crowded tourist centers.
A glimpse into history
Hohentauern has been an important crossing point since ancient times. Long before it became a leisure destination, it was a key route for the Romans, who built a road over the pass to transport salt and ore. In the Middle Ages, the village served as a crucial "Tauern crossing" for traders and pilgrims. This deep-rooted history as a waypoint has instilled a sense of hospitality in the local culture that continues to this day.
Description: Your Alpine Home
The village is the definition of "alpine chic" meets "rustic charm." Unlike massive concrete resorts, Hohentauern is characterized by its cozy atmosphere.
Accommodation: Whether you're looking for a luxurious mountain villa with a private sauna or a sun-drenched vacation apartment overlooking the slopes, the options here focus on comfort.
Atmosphere: Many visitors choose spacious vacation rentals or traditional wooden cabins that offer a "home away from home" feeling, making it perfect for families or groups looking for a quiet getaway.
Nature: The Seven Heavenly Peaks
Hohentauern is surrounded by the "Seven Heavenly Peaks," a crown of mountains that reach over 2,000 meters.
Keltenberg
A unique nature park with a stone circle, a forest lake, and an underground world.
Water wealth
The area is dotted with crystal-clear mountain ponds and rushing streams, making the air fresh and incredibly clean.
Activities: Adventures all year round
No matter when you visit your holiday home, there's plenty to do:
Summer: Over 200 km of marked hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging peaks. Mountain biking and fly fishing in the Weberteich are also local favorites.
Winter: It's a stronghold for cross-country skiing (awarded the Styrian Cross-Country Skiing Label) and backcountry skiing. The family-friendly ski resort offers quiet slopes and a massive "toboggan run" for children.
Typical foods: A taste of Styria
Styria's cuisine is hearty, honest and driven by the land. Don't leave without trying:
Steirerkas: A spicy, crumbly mountain cheese often served on rye bread.
Pumpkin seed oil: Known as "Green Gold", it's drizzled over salads and even vanilla ice cream.
Game: As the region is densely forested, game and chamois dishes are often found on tavern menus.
Brettljause: A wooden platter filled with smoked meats, cold cuts and pickled cucumbers.
Festivals and traditions
Life in Hohentauern follows the rhythm of the seasons:
Almabtrieb (Autumn)
A lively festival where cattle are decorated with flowers and bells as they are driven down from high pastures to the valley for the winter.
Bjergbrand (Summer Solstice)
Large bonfires are lit on the mountain ridges to celebrate the longest day of the year, creating a glowing ring around the village.
Traditional music evenings
Local inns often host evenings of folk music and dance, where the local community gathers to celebrate their cultural heritage.