Walking in Soll

Walking Trails:
700km

Terrain:
Diverse terrain from rolling hills to dramatic peaks

Soll at a glance

  • German
  • Euro (EUR)
  • Birmingham Int. (BHX), Edinburgh (EDI), Glasgow Int. (GLA), London Gatwick (LGW), Manchester Int. (MAN), Newcastle (NCL)

Travel included to Soll

Depart on: Saturday or Wednesday

Fly into: Salzburg or Innsbruck

Transfer time: approx. 1 hour 30 - 45 minutes by coach

Included in your walking holiday to Söll

  • Wilder Kaiser Guest Card

  • On holiday support and tailored advice from our Destination Experts based in Austria
  • Inghams Digital Resort Guide with things to do, walks and useful information on holiday

  • Flights from the UK, transfers and accommodation

Walking in Soll

Walks and hikes

Walking Trails:
700km
Terrain:
Diverse terrain from rolling hills to dramatic peaks

Two very different mountains bookend Söll, making for varied adventuring terrain and scenic walking holidays. The jagged dragon’s spine of Wilder Kaiser juts its grey limestone peaks to the north, green mountains roll out to the south, and a valley stretches out between - it's all covered in an intricate web of walking trails. The village of Söll forms part of the massive Wilder Kaiser - Brixental area which has a network of over 700 kilometres of walking paths. Explore the rocky paths and rugged peaks, so stay on the south side of the valley for the great lift network and easily accessible trails - Söll has plenty for everyone.

It's a beautiful valley, with endless walking opportunities all linked by a superb network of lifts which climb into the mountains - pause at peaks and plateaus, before dropping back down into neighbouring valleys and villages.

There are plenty of walking options around the Söll area that will appeal to children as well as adults. From Hexenwasser adventure play area, the walk to Filmzalmsee Lake has a hut stop on route, and the play areas around the lake are lots of fun. For the best views, head to the top of Scheffau's Brandstadl lift and follow Panorama trail to the top of the Ellmau Hartkaiser lift. On the way you'll pass various adventure parks and have panoramic views the whole way - there's plenty of places for food with a view too.

Söll Tourist Office offers regular guided walks and good maps of the local area. The walks may need to be booked in advance, directly with the tourist office.

Our favourite self-guided walks in Söll

Ellmau Hintersteinersee
  • Grade: Easy walk
  • Distance: 5.2km
  • Walking time: 2 hours
  • Terrain: Tarmac road, gravel path, single track forest path

Just north of the village lies this hidden lake, with stunning blue waters, tree-lined banks and shallow shores – ideal for dipping your toes in to quickly cool off on route. Along different banks you will find multiple refreshment stops including the the Café Restaurant Seestüberl, Maier and Goingstätt.

  • Grade: Easy 
  • Distance: 2.4km 
  • Walking time: 1 hour 
  • Terrain: Meadow path, forest trail, tarmac road 

A gentle circular walk just outside Söll, perfect for an easy outing. Starting at the Franzlhof, the trail passes the war memorial and heads through meadows and forest paths to the peaceful Moorsee – a great spot to pause by the water – before circling back to the village. With views of the Hohe Salve and very little ascent, it’s ideal for hot days or a short scenic stroll close to town. 

  • Grade: Moderate 
  • Distance: 11km 
  • Walking time: 4 hours 
  • Terrain: Hiking trail, meadow path, gravel path 

The Quellen Circular Route circles the Hohe Salve Mountain with sweeping views at every turn. Starting with a ride on the Hexenwaser gondola up to Hochsöll, the walk takes you past alpine meadows, a mountain lake, and several huts where you can stop for food and drinks. Expect changing scenery throughout, with stunning views across the Wilder Kaiser and Kitzbühel Alps. 

  • Grade: Challenging 
  • Distance: 8km 
  • Walking time: 5 hours 
  • Terrain: Forest roads, steep paths, rocky passages 

This hike brings you into the heart of the Wilder Kaiser, where rugged terrain meets breath-taking views. The trail begins at the Wochenbrunner Alm and climbs through meadows and forest before tackling rocky scree to reach the Ellmauer Tor. With towering rock faces and expansive views, the route offers a real sense of adventure. Good fitness and sturdy footwear are essential. 

Our accommodations in Soll

Discover Soll

  • Explore a huge variety of walking trails to suit all abilities
  • Embrace the atmosphere with a brass band concert or Tyrolean evening
  • Head to the lively village evening for local food, drink, crafts and live music

Söll is a valley village filled with people who treasure tradition – whether that’s welcoming visitors to its flower-bedecked hotels or celebrating the return of their beloved cows from the high mountain pastures each summer. Söll’s open green valley rises into the foothills of the vast Wilder Kaiser mountains to the North, and the Bergwelt to the South. In winter, this area is one of Austria’s biggest ski regions. In summer, it's the perfect destination for a walking holiday exploring over 700 kilometres of varied paths linked by lifts and public transport.

Söll is a village full of surprises. Take the parish church – it might look like a classic alpine sanctuary from the outside, but inside it’s a flamboyant rococo concoction of painted ceilings and sacred sculptures. There is a good selection of cafés, shops and restaurants for you to explore which are well-stocked with local meat, cheese, ice cream and breads sourced from the farms that freckle the valley.

The town band doesn’t need much of an excuse to strike up a Tyrolean tune, either, putting on weekly concerts and village evenings in summer. In and around Söll there are several festivals and events, with lots being in the village itself. Often you will find the open-air brass band concert in full swing, played by the locals and various village evenings bring the centre alive arts, crafts, local food and drink or live music. At a small fee, you can attend the weekly Tyrolean evenings and if you're travelling in mid-august you might be lucky enough to attend the annual Dorf-fest village festival and carnival.

There's plenty to see and do around Söll and you can hop on the free valley bus and go on an adventure to see what's around.

One of the most popular – and most accessible – mountain ascents from Söll is the Hohe Salve. First, board the new cable car bound for Hochsöll and the mountain park of Hexenwasser. Here, families can explore pools, steppingstones and barefoot trails while learning about the tales of the valleys around.

A second cable car climbs further still to the peak of the Hohe Salve, where the highest pilgrimage chapel in Austria keeps an eye on the valleys and villages far below. Paragliders are also found up here, ready to launch themselves into the crisp mountain air. You can choose to keep your feet firmly grounded, following footpaths to glassy lakes and mountain huts.

Buses roll along the valleys of the Wilder Kaiser, stopping at picturesque villages such as Scheffau and Ellmau, and at the turquoise waters of Hintersteinersee lake. Where there’s a village, there’s usually a lift – and they’ve all got their own specialties. Some cable cars deliver families to child-friendly walks, others take you to renowned mountain huts, and others are gateways to the wilder paths of the Wilder Kaiser. For a trip to the city, catch the bus to fortress-topped Kufstein. Trains run from the town centre to Innsbruck in the west and Salzburg in the east. There's a mountain lift hidden in Kufstein too, the single person chair-lift that slowly rises up the back of the Wilder Kaiser mountains is a real hidden gem, offering up some incredible views and peaceful surroundings.

Söll has a great network of public transport and lifts that make getting around the area really easy.

Lifts

In the Kitzbühel Alps are there up to 39 lifts you can access from Söll via public transport. The region's advanced lift system means experiencing panoramic walks and summit hikes is easily accessible.

The closest lifts to explore the region are:

  • Hochsöll in Söll (normally open from 10 May)
  • Hohe Salve and Keat in Söll (normally open from 24 May)
  • Hartkaiserbahn in Ellmau (normally open from 10 May)
  • Astbergbahn in Going (normally open from 7 Jun)
  • Brandstadlbahn in Scheffau (normally open from 24 May)
  • Hochbrixen and Zinsbergbahn in Brixen (normally open from 24 May)
  • Salvenbahn 1 and 2 in Hopfgarten (normally open from 24 May)
  • Alpenrosenbahn 1 and 2 in Westendorf (normally open from 24 May)
  • Kaiserlift in Kufstein (normally open from beginning May)
  • Salvistabahn in Itter (normally open on weekends from 29 May - 2nd Nov and daily from 5th Jul - 5th Oct)

Subject to change.

Buses

The Kaiserjet bus (free with your Wilder Kaiser Guest Card) transports walkers between the villages of Söll, Scheffau, Ellmau and Going making it easy to explore other areas as well. The PostBus is also free between these villages.

From mid-June to mid-September, the Kaiserjet Nightliner runs between Söll, Scheffau, Ellmau and Going from Tuesday to Friday night, enabling you to visit the weekly village evenings in neighbouring towns.

Public buses also operate to surrounding destinations including Kitzbühel and St. Johann, which are home to a variety of walking challenges and family-friendly strolls.

You can also use your included Wilder Kaiser Guest Card to reach walking hotspots such as Hintersteinersee lake and popular local mountain huts.

Timetables can be found online or directly at the bus stops.

The Wilder Kaiser Guest Card is available free of charge from your hotel upon arrival and is valid for a period of your stay.

It includes:

  • Kaiserjet Bus which runs between the villages of Söll, Scheffau, Ellmau and Going
  • Hiker's bus to Hintersteinersee lake, Wochenbrunner Alm mountain hut and Hüttling
  • Public buses to Kufstein, Wörgl, Kitzbühel and St Johann
  • Tourist Board activity programme
  • Discounts on summer cable car tickets, entry to attractions, pools and lakes, walking and biking maps in the tourist information and more

Subject to change.

Mountain Experience Card - buy locally | from €115 - 6 days | from €84.50 - 3 days | please present your guest card for the reduced rate. 

Consecutive days only. Other durations are available.

Includes up to 14 lifts in the Wilder Kaiser - Brixental region plus discounts on various bonus partners throughout the area.

  • Hochsöll in Söll
  • Hohe Salve and Keat in Söll
  • Hartkaiserbahn in Ellmau
  • Astbergbahn in Going
  • Brandstadlbahn in Scheffau
  • Hochbrixen and Zinsbergbahn in Brixen
  • Salvenbahn 1 and 2 in Hopfgarten
  • Alpenrosenbahn 1 and 2 in Westendorf
  • Kaiserlift in Kufstein
  • Salvistabahn in Itter

Kitzbüheler Alpen Summer Card - buy locally | from €120.00 - 6 days | please present your guest card for the reduced rate.

Consecutive days only. Other durations are available.

Includes up to 39 lifts in the Kitzbühel Alps region plus discounts on various bonus partners throughout the area, so is ideal for people staying longer durations or wanting to explore further afield.

The lifts included are the 14 listed above, plus operating lifts in Kitzbühel, St Johann, Wildschönau, Alpbachtal, Steinplatte Waidring, Pillersee and Lofer.

Lift pass inclusions are subject to change.

Travel to Soll

Travel by air

Flights to Innsbruck and Salzburg depart on Saturdays or Wednesdays between 24 May - 13 September 25 and 23 May - 19 September 26

Fly to Salzburg from:

  • London Gatwick (Wednesday or Saturday), Manchester (Saturday only), Birmingham (Saturday only), Newcastle (Saturday only) or Glasgow (Saturday only)

Fly to Innsbruck from:

  • London Gatwick (Wednesday or Saturday), Manchester (Saturday only), Birmingham (Saturday only) or Edinburgh (Saturday only)

Transfer time:

  • Approx. 1 hour 45 minutes by coach from Salzburg
  • Approx. 1 hour 30 minutes by coach from Innsbruck

Please be aware transfer times may vary depending on weather conditions and volume of traffic, especially during peak season.

Things to do in Söll

This spectacular journey takes you over the Grossglockner High Alpine Road, an incredible feat of engineering with stunning views. From the Franz-Josef's Höhe you'll see the Pasterze glacier and maybe catch a glimpse of 3,798-metre summit of the Grossglockner. Keep a look out for the wild marmots and Ibex too - they love the high alpine conditions. You can visit the free museums and exhibitions to learn about the National Park or enjoy a walk round the area and a tasty Austrian mountain meal.

Departs: Thursdays

We act at all times as a selling agent for the suppliers. All excursions require minimum numbers to run and are subject to change. Some excursions may not be available to pre-book in low season but may be available to book locally subject to numbers. Prices will be confirmed at the time of booking. Please see our terms & conditions.

Salzburg is a city full of culture, history and music. Visit Mozart’s birthplace, enjoy the view from the Hohensalzburg Fortress, or wander the famous Getreidegasse shopping street. Immerse yourself in history as you explore the medieval Old Town, discover museums and Baroque churches or visit the Salzburg Residenz Palace - the DomQuartier. There is an optional guided walking tour which is a great way to see more of the city (payable locally, approx. €12 per person).

Departs: Wednesdays

We act at all times as a selling agent for the suppliers. All excursions require minimum numbers to run and are subject to change. Some excursions may not be available to pre-book in low season but may be available to book locally subject to numbers. Prices will be confirmed at the time of booking. Please see our terms & conditions.

Ellmau Kaiserbad Swimming Pool Copyright TVB Wilder Kaiser

Enjoy a refreshing dip in the natural pond, or swim in the outdoor pool. If you're wanting a day to unwind, then the indoor wellness area features infrared cabins, a solarium, saunas and steam baths – pure relaxation (but bare in mind that spas in Austria are often nude zones). Or, keep strong and active in the large indoor climbing or tennis hall.

Image: (copyright TVB Wilder Kaiser)

Heimatmuseum Ellmau Copyright TVB Wilder Kaiser Von Felbert Reiter Danielreiter

Head to 'Beim Wegmacher', the local history museum built in 1555 as a miner's house. Something special about this museum is the torchlight hike “Fire and Flame” - held on Mondays in July and August. During this family friendly experience you can enjoy folk music, as well as make mini purchases from their own stalls too – perfect for souvenirs.

Image: (copyright TVB Wilder Kaiser Von Felbert Reiter Danielreiter)

There's a few options for you to choose from on this interesting trip to Berchtesgaden. Spend the day discovering the pretty Bavarian town of Berchtesgaden itself, or choose one of the optional extras that you can add on to your day (difference payable locally).

The most famous is the Kehlsteinhaus (Eagle's Nest). Explore the historic building and surrounding area, with spectacular views on a clear day over the King's Lake. The house is famous for being Nazi-constructed and was used for government and social meetings by Hitler and the Nazi Party. Alternatively, head underground to see the Salt Mines. A network of tunnels and slides take you on an underground adventure discovering this once very important industry (optional add-ons are payable locally - Eagle's Nest approx. €31.90 per person, Salt Mines approx. €25.50 per person).

Departs: Tuesdays

We act at all times as a selling agent for the suppliers. All excursions require minimum numbers to run and are subject to change. Some excursions may not be available to pre-book in low season but may be available to book locally subject to numbers. Prices will be confirmed at the time of booking. Please see our terms & conditions.

Enjoy a day of relaxation at the Ahornsee while the kids swim and play - the views from this lake are beautiful and it's easy to find a comfortable spot to settle down in for a few hours. There's a lido area and floating platform which you can swim out to. Plus, there's toilets and changing rooms, and a café with hot food, ice cream and drinks.

Lay back on a deckchair, jump off the diving tower, paddle in the shallow water or swim until your hearts content – all while enjoying the immaculate scenery around you.

Going Badesee Lake Austria Copyright TVB Wilder Kaiser Martin Lifka Photography E.U

Spend a day in Going sunbathing on the lawn, jumping in the lake or simply feeling the sand between your toes on the little beachy shore. With excellent on-site facilities, you can plan for a full day of fresh mountain air, even while you enjoy lunch from the lake café. There's few fun activities for families too like the 100-metre-long waterslide and great views of the Wilder Kaiser mountain range.

Image: (copyright TVB Wilder Kaiser Martin Lifka Photography E.U)

Just north of Söll and about 25 minutes on the bus you will find the medieval masterpiece of Kufstein Fortress and its open-air arena. Located on top of the hill, the views are stunning. Here you’ll find a museum, funicular train and amazing photo-spots looking over the Inn River which runs all the way from Switzerland, through Austria and to Germany.

Kufstein also has a good variety of shops, restaurants and pretty streets, but its best feature has to be the single person chairlift which rises up the back of the Wilder Kaiser mountains, offering a peaceful and easy ascent matched with incredible views.

Golf Ellmau Copyright TVB Wilder Kaiser Stefan Leitner

If you're a keen golfer, then you're in for a treat. The stunning Wilder Kaiser backdrop makes this a unique experience – so grab your clubs and head to the green - home to a mighty 27 holes, spread across three 9-hole courses.

Image: (copyright TVB Wilder Kaiser Stefan Leitner)

Soll Hintersteinersee Lake Bike Ride Copyright TVB Wilder Kaiser Mathäus Gartner

Biking is increasing in popularity all over Austria and this area is no exception. The Kitzbühel Alps and Wilder Kaiser mountains are part of the world's largest e-bike region, with 275 electrical bicycles and 75 rental or battery charge stations available.

An extensive cycle network of over 350 kilometres of marked cycle routes, away from the main traffic weaves throughout the region, stretching as far as Kufstein, the Wildschönau, the Hohe Salve, the Wilder Kaiser, the Brixen valley, Kitzbühel and St. Johann. With a mixture of tarmac cycling paths, gravel roads and mountain bike tracks in the area, any age or skill level rider will discover great fun, diversity and challenge.

There's also a new pump track near the Ahornsee bathing lake where you can practise your skills, plus rental shops offering adults and kids bikes.

Guided tours are available locally which are a great way to explore the area.

Image: (copyright TVB Wilder Kaiser Mathäus Gartner)

Ellmau Hintersteinersee

This picturesque lake is worth a visit, whether you have kids or not. The bathing area has rentals of sunbeds, umbrellas and stand-up paddleboards, and it's very refreshing for a swim in the clear waters. You can walk all the way round the lake - the south side is quite hilly but shaded, and the north side is sunny and flatter, following a quiet road. Three restaurants offer refreshments along the way and a full lap of the lake will take around two to two and a half hours.

Ellmau Kaiserbad Swimming Pool Copyright TVB Wilder Kaiser

The Kaiserbad swimming pool is a must-visit on a sunny day if you have energetic kids - the superb outdoor water play area will have children using cannons, getting drenched under the water mushroom fountain or whizzing down the slides or enjoying the big play area. It's also a great wet weather option, as it has a large indoor area with water slides, whirlpool, swimming area and loungers.

Within the complex, there's also an indoor climbing wall, tennis and squash courts separate to the swimming area.

Image: (copyright TVB Wilder Kaiser)

Soll Hexenwasser Copyright TVB Wilder Kaiser Mathäus Gartner

The Hexenwasser (Witches' Water) on the Hohe Salve mountain in Söll is a magical world of splashing fun - paradise for children. This sensory experience is excellent for everyone – even parents can get involved too. There are over 60 different water play features including water bridge challenges, adventure play areas and Austria's longest barefoot walk which is enjoyed by children and adults alike, so it's the perfect way to cool down on a hot summers' day. Maybe you'll even get to meet the Witches as you explore, too.

The fun continues up the second lift to the Hohe Salve, where you can grab lunch with a view on the revolving terrace.

Image: (copyright TVB Wilder Kaiser Mathäus Gartner)

Soll Kaiserwelt Playground Scheffau Copyright TVB Wilder Kaiser Daniel Reiter Peter Von Felbert

At the top of Scheffau's Brandstadl lift is the KaiserWelt, which means Emperor's World. Children can play in the playground and the various wooden tree huts while parents admire the view of the Wilder Kaiser mountains on the other side of the valley. Take a walk to the Jochstub'n Lake - a unique high mountain lake with little sailing boat.

Image: (copyright TVB Wilder Kaiser Daniel Reiter Peter Von Felbert)

Ellmau Ellmis Zauberwelt Childrens Playground Copyright Peter Von Felbert Danielreiterpetervonfelbert

Hartkaiser Mountain has a 4,000-square-metre magic mountain playground featuring a carving hut, climbing structures, a maze, tubing, marble runs, water features and a magical rain forest where kids can climb, explore, splash and play to their heart’s content. As well as the enchanted forest, there's a large adventure playground with zip line, trampoline and much more to delight younger children. Your little explorers are sure to have a blast in this mountainous, magical land of activities.

Nature walks, Botanical Gardens and the Alpine Trail will keep children entertained, with plenty of educational signs about local wildlife. There is Bergkaiser Panorama Restaurant terrace to admire the incredible views of the mountains and enjoy a bite to eat.

Image: (copyright Peter Von Felbert Danielreiter)

Rattenberg centre

Discover some of the area's best kept secrets on this trip which combines three unique destinations. Our first 'treasure' is Kufstein, located on the banks of the River Inn. You'll have time to explore and admire this border town with its dominating Fortress. Next, you're off to the beautiful Thiersee lake, surrounded by forests and steeped in folklore. Our final destination is Rattenberg, rich in history and famous for Kisslinger glass - watch a glass-blowing demonstration and explore the picturesque streets of this tiny city.

Departs: Fridays

We act at all times as a selling agent for the suppliers. All excursions require minimum numbers to run and are subject to change. Some excursions may not be available to pre-book in low season but may be available to book locally subject to numbers. Prices will be confirmed at the time of booking. Please see our terms & conditions.

Image: Rattenberg centre (copyright: Alpbachtal Tourismus Rattenberg)

Popular Insider Guides

See all Insider Guides

More resorts in Austrian Tyrol