A holiday in St Anton is renowned for its après party throughout the winter months as well as being a snowy paradise for all winter sports. Fast forward a few months, after the snow has melted and the alpine flowers are flourishing, summer in St Anton is a different kind of paradise. Upholding its reputation as an energetic resort, St Anton in the summer does not disappoint with rock-climbing, mountain bike trails and ridge hikes – not to mention the endless alpine activities for all the family.
I have an exclusive interview with Siobhan, the owner of Chalet Narnia, to find out about her top experiences and recommendations to ensure you can make the most of your summer holiday to St Anton.
Quick Stats
Altitude: 1,304 m
Lifts open in summer: 4 gondolas, 2 chair-lifts
Walking trails: 300 km
Cycle paths: 350 km mountain bike trails and 350 km road cycling trails
Lift pass: from 39€ for a three-day hiking pass (free day pass with a Summer Card)
What drew you to buy a property in St Anton?
We were looking for a ski chalet to enjoy with our 5 children. Initially, we considered Canada but realised it was just too far. We then almost bought in Switzerland but on visiting Austria, we absolutely fell in love with it. We looked at various resorts around Salzburg but on our first visit to St Anton in December 2007, we were captivated. With 5 growing children ALL our boxes were ticked in terms of skiing & winter sports in St. Anton; safety; friendliness and nightlife ~ never mind being a top destination for an Alps summer holiday too!
How would you enjoy a typical summer’s day in St Anton?
I love going for a walk or cycle in the mountains; there are just so many mountain trails to explore the beautiful scenery! Alternatively, the other extreme, I’d take a relaxing lunch in one of the many outside restaurants.
What are the top activities to do on a summer holiday in St Anton?
Summer in the Austrian Alps is truly magical. There are outdoor adventure activities such as walking, cycling or swimming or more extreme sports, such as white water rafting, and playing on zip wires down in the Verwall Valley. There are plenty of summer activities to keep everybody active and entertained making for the perfect summer alpine holiday.
What family-friendly activities are there for children in St Anton?
Oh, where do you start? St Anton in the summer is a great destination for a family holiday to the Alps. The children can enjoy walking, cycling, horse riding, swimming, white water rafting, zip wires, archery and a play park near the Verwall See.
What is the best way of getting around the mountains in the summer?
Walking and cycling are great for getting around – especially E-bikes if you want to take the edge off the hills! You can hire bikes from various places in St Anton, including Intersport and Jennewien Sport.
Where are your top places to dine out in the summer?
St Anton presents the perfect Austrian summer with the range of restaurants, ideal for those taking a self-catered luxury summer chalet. Galzig Bistro Bar in the square is open for lunches and dinners serving a range of cuisines from their famous Thai Curry Soup to the Gourmet Galzig Burger or even your classic pasta dishes – it really does have something for everyone. There is also the Rodel-Alm up the mountain which serves traditional cuisine by the fire.
Where is the best spot for a mountain picnic?
The Verwall Valley is spectacular. It is a mountain range, popular with rock climbers and mountaineers, that stretches right across to the Paznauntal and Stanzer Valley’s. From St Anton Rendlbahn Gondola, follow the signs to Konstanzer Hut and you can take the 10km hike ascending 320m with the above picnic spot en-route, or for an easier journey take the 20 minute bus ride.
Do you have a favourite viewpoint?
Difficult as there are SO many – perhaps top of Valluga! Take a scenic journey up in the Valluga gondola with 360° panoramic views of peaks averaging about 3,000 metres.
Are there any summer events in St Anton to look out for?
St. Antoner Dorffest is an annual village festival that takes place during the second weekend of July and shouldn’t be missed on your summer holiday to St Anton! It is a traditional festival with music, live entertainment, brass bands, and local gastronomy celebrating the fantastic Austrian culture.
Why is St Anton a good destination for relaxation and wellness?
Breathing in the fresh mountain air while swimming in the pool in St Anton or the mountain pool near Lech is unforgettable. Awe-inspiring views are found all along the trail and cycle paths, as well, the mountain lifts let you relax and take in the panoramic views right from the top of the mountain. And, of course, one of the best ways to spend an evening is enjoying a relaxing sauna and massage in Chalet Narnia. There’s also lots of fresh healthy produce in the local restaurants to indulge both the body and mind. St Anton really does have it all for the perfect summer holiday to the Alps!
What would be your top tip for first timers to St Anton in the summer?
Get up early and enjoy the day! There is so much to see and do that a weeks summer holiday to St Anton won’t seem long enough. Make sure you leave some time for the hot-tub and sauna too and you’ll feel rested and rejuvenated by the time you go home!
Thank you to Siobhan from Chalet Narnia for taking the time to provide such a fantastic insight into St Anton in the summer. If a summer holiday to St Anton sounds like the place for you or you want more information on the resort and where to stay, please send us an email or give us a call on +44 (0)1202 203659 and the team at Alps In Luxury will be happy to help!
