Söll holidays

How to reach Söll

• Flight time: There are no direct flights to Söll, but you can fly into Innsbruck, Salzburg or Munich and then travel to Söll. Flights to Innsbruck take around 2 hours from London, with other major UK airports, such as Manchester and Birmingham, offering similar flight durations.

• Transfer time: From Innsbruck Airport, it's a 1 hour 30 minute drive to Söll. The journey is also possible by a mix of buses and trains (around 2 hours, via Innsbruck and Wörgl), but shuttle services, car rental, or pre-booked taxis are popular and possibly the easiest way. Salzburg is also around 1 hour 30 minutes by car or shuttle but over 2 hours 30 minutes by public transport.

• Price: From Innsbruck Airport, the bus and train option to Söll costs approximately €30. Shuttle services can be booked for about €50 per person, and a taxi costs around €150. Car rentals vary, but expect to pay around €40–€70 per day.

Weather and best time to visit Söll

Choosing the best time for holidays to Söll depends on what you want to do. Here's a quick guide to the seasons:

• December to February: Winter is high season for Söll, popular for skiing and snowboarding, and the resort is lively with après-ski activities. Average temperatures range from -5 to 5°C, and snow is abundant.

• March to May: Spring is quieter, with fewer tourists. Average temperatures range from 5 to 15°C, with moderate rainfall, making it ideal for hiking as the snow melts and flowers bloom.

• June to August: Summer in Söll sees temperatures between 15 and 25°C, plenty of sunshine, and the occasional rain shower. It's the low season, so you'll find fewer crowds, and it’s a perfect time for outdoor activities like hiking and mountain biking.

• September to November: Autumn offers a peaceful retreat. The landscape is stunning in its autumn colours, making it a great time for walking and exploring. Rainfall is higher than in summer, but plenty of dry, sunny days still range from 10 to 20°C.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: German is the official language, but English is widely understood, especially in tourist areas. Learning a few basic German phrases can enhance your experience.

• Local habits and customs: Austrians appreciate punctuality and politeness. Greeting people with a friendly Grüss Gott (hello) and saying danke (thank you) are appreciated.

• Health and safety: Söll is safe, but travel insurance is recommended, especially for winter sports, and take a UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) for access to healthcare.

• Currency: Austria uses the euro (€). ATMs are widely available. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it's good to carry some cash for small purchases.

• Getting around: Söll has a reliable bus service, and many visitors rent cars. A bus ticket within the region costs around €3. For longer stays, consider a regional travel pass.

• Electricity and plug types: Austria's supply is 230V and uses the standard European plug types C and F with two round pins. UK travellers will need an adaptor.

• Time zone: Austria is on Central European Time (CET), 1 hour ahead of GMT, and observes Daylight Saving Time.

• Required travel documentation: UK travellers need a valid passport but do not require a visa for short stays of up to 90 days.

Best things to do in Söll

Nestled in the mountainous Wilder Kaiser region, Söll is a picturesque Austrian village offering a variety of activities for all types of travellers. Here’s a rundown of the best things to do during Söll holidays:

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Hohe Salve: Take the gondola up to the summit of Hohe Salve for breathtaking panoramic views of over 70 peaks, including the Grossglockner and the Kitzbüheler Horn. There’s a rotating restaurant at the top where you can enjoy a meal with a view.

• Hexenwasser: This unique outdoor experience combines nature and folklore. Located on the slopes of Hohe Salve, this water-themed park offers scenic views out over Söll down in the valley, interactive water features and walking trails, including up to Hohe Salve.

Day trips in the area

• Kufstein: A 20-minute drive from Söll, Kufstein is known for its impressive fortress and charming old town with traditional architecture. The fortress offers stunning views and houses a museum.

• Innsbruck: About 1 hour’s drive away, Innsbruck is a beautiful city known for its historic sites, including the Golden Roof and the Imperial Palace. It’s also a gateway to various alpine activities. Discover our holidays to Innsbruck.

• Salzburg: Mozart's birthplace is just over a 90-minute drive away. Visit the stunning Mirabell Palace and Hohensalzburg Fortress and enjoy a stroll through the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Check out the best deals on holidays to Salzburg.

Activities for families in Söll

Söll is an excellent destination for families, offering a range of activities catering to all ages and interests. From outdoor adventures to educational experiences, there's something for everyone:

• Hexenwasser: This witch-themed adventure park is a must-visit for families. It features interactive water play areas, nature trails and sensory stations. Kids can explore barefoot paths, learn about local legends and cool off in the water.

• Ahornsee: This picturesque lake is perfect for swimming, paddleboarding or just picnicking by the water in the summer. In winter, it transforms into a natural ice-skating rink.

• KaiserWelt: Located at the Brandstadl mountain station, this adventure playground offers climbing frames, slides and obstacle courses set against a backdrop of stunning alpine scenery. It's an ideal spot for children to burn off energy while parents take in the views.

• Wildpark Aurach: 30km from Söll, this wildlife park is home to native animals such as deer, marmots and ibex. It's a fantastic way for kids to learn about local wildlife in a natural setting.

• Söller Sinnesrunde: This sensory walking trail has four sections totalling 23km. Families can enjoy a leisurely walk while experiencing various sensory installations highlighting the region's natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Wellness in Söll

• Spa hotels: Several hotels and resorts offer indoor and outdoor pools with stunning views of the beautiful alpine scenery, plus saunas and treatments. Hotel AlpenSchlössl and Hotel Postwirt offer traditional Tyrolean massages and treatments using locally sourced products.

• Yoga and meditation centres: Yoga classes are offered at places such as Hotel Postwirt, where sessions often take place both indoors and outdoors with views of the alpine scenery, providing a perfect way to unwind and connect with nature.

Nature and outdoor activities

• Hiking and walking trails: The Wilder Kaiser region boasts over 700km of marked trails. Popular routes include the Panorama Trail, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks, and the Söller Sinnesrunde, a sensory trail perfect for families.

• Cycling and mountain biking: The area around Söll is crisscrossed with cycling paths and mountain biking trails. Whether you prefer a leisurely ride through the valley or adrenaline-inducing downhill runs, there are routes for all levels.

• Skiing and snowboarding: In winter, Söll becomes a hub for winter sports. Part of the SkiWelt, the largest ski area in Austria, it offers over 270km of pistes and numerous snow parks. The area is suitable for all skill levels, from beginners to advanced skiers.

• Watersports: In the warmer months, head to the area’s lakes for swimming, watersports and fishing – Ahornsee, Badsee Going, Hintersteiner See and Jochstuben See. Their crystal-clear waters and surrounding natural beauty make them perfect spots for a memorable day out.

Local dishes in Söll

One of the highlights of holidays to Söll is indulging in the local cuisine, which reflects the rich culinary traditions of the Tyrolean region. From hearty mountain dishes to sweet treats, there's plenty to savour.

Some typical dishes

• Wienerschnitzel: A breaded and fried veal cutlet, usually served with a slice of lemon, potatoes and lingonberry jam, is a must-try for any visitor.

• Käsespätzle: A traditional dish of soft egg noodles layered with melted cheese and topped with crispy onions. Austria’s answer to macaroni cheese is perfect for warming up after a day in the snow.

• Tafelspitz: Slow-boiled beef served with horseradish and apple sauce. It’s a comforting dish often accompanied by vegetables and potatoes.

Meat dishes

• Gröstl: A hearty Tyrolean dish made from fried potatoes, onions and leftover pork or beef, topped with a fried egg. It’s an excellent choice for a filling meal after an active day in the mountains.

• Tiroler Speckknödel: Bacon dumplings served in a rich beef broth. These dumplings are packed with flavour and are a staple in alpine cuisine.

• Schweinsbraten: Roast pork served with dumplings and sauerkraut, typically flavoured with caraway and garlic.

Sweets and desserts

• Apfelstrudel: A beloved treat, this famous pastry is filled with apples, cinnamon, sugar and raisins.

• Kaiserschmarrn: For those who enjoy lighter fare, this airy and crisp shredded pancake is sprinkled with powdered sugar and served with fruit preserves.

• Sachertorte: This dense chocolate cake with a layer of apricot jam is traditionally served with whipped cream and epitomises Viennese confectionery craftsmanship.

Local drinks

• Glühwein: Warm yourself up with a mug of this spiced mulled wine, which is especially popular in winter.

• Schnapps: Various fruit brandies, such as apricot (Marillen) and pear (Birnen), are widely enjoyed, especially after meals.

• Almdudler: A popular herbal soft drink that’s a perfect non-alcoholic option, often described as the "national drink" of Austria.

• Beer: Austria has a strong beer culture, and in Saalbach, you’ll find plenty of local brews to enjoy. A pint of Märzen or Dunkel is a perfect accompaniment to a hearty meal.