What’s going on in Kitzbühel, Austria, this summer?
Kitzbühel, set in the heart of the Austrian Alps, is easily accessible from Innsbruck, Salzburg and Munich airports. Benefiting from direct flights from London, Birmingham, Edinburgh, Bristol, Cardiff and Manchester, the resort is the perfect base of UK holidaymakers wanting to get active in the Alps and for those wanting to explore the whole region this summer. Situated between 800 – 2,000 metres altitude, Kitzbühel has a rich history dating back to the 12th Century and enjoys stunning mountain views and a traditional Austrian feel with boutique hotels, independent shops and period architecture.
Although Kitzbühel is less travelled by British holidaymakers outside the ski season, it has just as much to offer in the summer and autumn. With majestic mountain ranges, lush-green alpine pastures, fresh-mountain air and crystal-clear waters, it is the perfect place for a summer holiday. Kitzbühel is perhaps best known for being the leading centre of sports and recreation in the Alps, showcasing world class tennis, mountain biking and archery facilities.
The resort is also a top destination for all cycling fanatics, from speeding along roads on a racing bike, climbing a craggy massif on a mountain bike, or trail riding along gravel pathways – all abilities are welcome. A special way to explore the region via bike is the Kitzbühel Bike Marathon. At 216 kilometres long and reaching an altitude of 4,600 metres, it’s certainly a challenge for every cyclist.
If hiking excites more than cycling, discover Kitzbühel’s unique mountain landscape, extensive network of trails, and warm hospitality from locals. Home to more than 1,000 km of trails, make the most of easy beginner tours, guided hikes or challenging summit tours. Some walkers take slow paced strolls alongside picturesque lakes and streams, while others opt for more difficult treks such as the nine summit experience, an 11 hour trek beginning and ending at the Bochumer Hütte passing through nine spectacular peaks along the way.
© Kitzbühel Tourism
As well as cycling and hiking, holidaymakers can try, trail running and races, or an array of more transformative experiences included guided alpaca tours on foot or walking down the famous Hahnenkamm ski-racing course. In addition, golf is very popular with its four courses with 54 holes, catering to both casual and seasoned players, Kitzbühel is fast becoming more attractive with UK golfers. The golf courses Eichenheim, Kitzbühel-Schwarzsee-Reith, Kitzbühel-Kaps and Red Bull Golf am Rasmushof are considered amongst the finest and most challenging in Alps, and each is within a five-minute drive of Kitzbühel’s historic town centre.
What’s more, Kitzbühel hosts several exciting sporting and cultural events during the summer. From the Generali Open – an ATP tennis tournament, to the PURA VIDA and Kulinarik festivals, there is something for everyone.
Keep reading to discover what’s on the agenda in Kitzbühel this summer.
6th July to 24th August 2023 – PURA VIDA
PURA VIDA is a creative cultural and culinary event that takes place every Thursday in July and August. Take part in yoga in the park, watch street artists perform or sample some classic Tyrolean food and drink. All activities included in the PURA VIDA programme are free of charge.
29th July to 5th August 2023 – Generali Open Kitzbühel
For 79 years, Kitzbühel has hosted international tennis tournaments played on clay courts throughout the summer months. Join some of the best athletes in the world of tennis as they come together in Kitzbühel for the Generali Open to showcase their skills and be in with a chance of winning a cash trophy. Tickets are priced from €35 / £30 pp.
18th to 19th August 2023 – Music Festival Kitzbühel
This August, the so called Gamsstadt will once again become a musical hotspot with the Kitzbühel Music Festival. This year, spectators can see among others the Austrian, award winning folk singer, Andreas Gabalier take to the stage. Tickets are priced from €52.50 / £45 pp.
27th August 2023 – Kitzbühel Cycling Marathon
The Kitzbühel Cycling Marathon will return for the third edition in August. With a total distance of 216 km, and reaching an altitude of 4,600 metres, the marathon is a challenge for every cyclist. This year, the route will remain the same, but a second ending has been added so riders can choose to finish at the Kitzbüheler Vorderstadt and avoid the Kitzbühel Horn, the steepest bike mountain of Austria. Registration to take part in the marathon is priced from €119 / £102 pp.
1st – 2nd September 2023 – KITZ Kulinarik food festival
KITZ Kulinarik combines traditional dishes with innovative interpretations to create a masterclass of high-quality local products, committed restauranteurs, mountain hut owners and producers. More than 20 restauranteurs from Kitzbühel and the surrounding area will come together to transform the historic town centre into a food festival on the first weekend in September. The festival is free to attend.
Go to Kitzbühel
A seven-night stay at Hotel Eggerwirt in Kitzbühel, arriving 12 August 2023, is priced from £989 pp based on three people sharing a room on a B&B basis, this includes return direct flights from London Gatwick.
Inghams (01483 318 611, www.inghams.co.uk)
To plan your Kitzbühel trip and for more information, please visit: www.kitzbuehel.com
