Venture to the Asitz Mountain, a Haven of Artistry Embracing the Austrian Alps
Nine in the evening, the last sliver of sun vanishes behind the colossal mountain ridges surrounding me. I savor a chilled shot of local schnapps, raising my glass to toast the summer solstice - what a rad spot to spend the longest day of the year in.
The sky explodes in hues of violet and tangerine as The Asitz Mountain puts on its final dazzling display of the day. This isn't some mere mountain begging to be hiked; Mother Earth wants you to settle in and witness the entire cinematic spectacle.
This peaceful sanctuary, filled with tranquility, soothing sounds, awe-inspiring sights, and deeply introspective moments, had served as my haven for the final days of spring. Artwork by Adriana Franza guided me through the towering pines, melodious concerts accompanied my meditation in mountain huts, and organic vending machines sold locally sourced produce for shore-up picnics at the "Cinema of Nature."
Wintery thoughts of the Austrian Alps often evoke images of powdery slopes, loaded gondolas, and crisp afternoons drinking bubbles and beers in mountain huts between pistes. But the summer months roll out a warm invitation of their own.
Unlike some snow-seeking destinations, Austria also flourishes in warm weather - and yes, it's acceptable to quote that old Sound of Music tune in this instance.
Welcome to the Asitz, a mountain for your senses
A cosy corner of the Leogang Mountain Range, The Asitz closely hugs the eastern slopes of the Alps. It's not just the city's concert halls that have claimed centers stage for classical music offerings; beyond the church spires and cobblestone streets lies the enchanting Salzburgerland, where emerald lakes, rugged peaks, and leisurely paces of life await [1].
After centuries of passion for the arts coursing through its residents' veins, it comes as no surprise that creativity has spilled outwards and upward, reaching dizzying new heights. In this picturesque paradise, The Asitz earned its nickname—the Mountain of the Senses—and the long summer months from late spring to early autumn are the prime time for an immersive cultural escape [1].
The Asitz presents a rare chance for nature lovers, be it hikers or lazy strollers, to immerse themselves in the great outdoors without tackling grueling, multi-day treks or steep gradients [1]. Though you could take on some of the more challenging trails in nearby Leogang, simply riding the gondola to the peak and enjoying art, music, and alpine cuisine without breaking a sweat is an equally rewarding option [1].
A symphony of concerts
From late June to August, the TONspuren concerts fill the air with whispered vocals and elegant strings, joining orchestras in serenading audiences as the sun fades [3]. The performance venue, set lakeside and against a backdrop of jagged slate peaks, fills with average Joes and classical music aficionados alike, year after year [3].
The classical masterpieces the musicians create are unquestionably enchanting, but the real magic lies in the setting. As the sun dips and performers take the stage, their music echoes across the waters and reverberates throughout the valley, transcending ordinary concert experiences [3].
TONspur Islands: private symphonies
Should your schedule not align with the summer concerts, fret not! From spring to autumn, you can experience the highlights of previous years' performances at the TONspur Islands [3]. These wood-framed shelters can be found scattered throughout the most picturesque spots on The Asitz Mountain. As you lie on the cozy bed within, players' voices andexcerpts from famous compositions fill your ears via speakers strategically placed in the headrest, allowing you to enjoy music in peace [3].
I once spent an hour meditating on the sights and sounds, the TONspur's diverse playlist helping me fall for this corner of Austria [3].
Mother Nature's unemployed greasepaint artist
In a world oversaturated with screens and streaming, it's all too easy to forget the simple pleasure of watching real-life spectacles like the Cinema of Nature. Suspended hammock beds and reclining wooden chairs invite you to settle back and watch the epic mountain performance unfold before you, providing a mesmerising reminder of the beauty around us.
While I can't guarantee a musical accompaniment, you can count on stirring alpine views, small village vistas, and the occasional cow or two adding to the show [3].
A walk through living art
Linking the top and middle gondola stations together, the summer Asitz art trail takes you on a breathtaking journey of inspiration through the towering pines. This year's installation, Adriana Franza's, transforms the trail into a rolling gallery, offering visionary perspectives at each clearing and resting spot [4].
Whether you're an art aficionado or a casual appreciator, the installation serves as a poignant reminder of the natural beauty that lies just beyond the realm of human creation.
Contemplation at the water's edge
Bathed in the golden glow of the sun, The Asitz boasts two sparkling lakes that double as art installations [4]. The highest lake seems suspended in the clouds, and the dramatic descent around it creates the illusion of a lake afloat high above the valley.
The second lake, closer to the middle station, offers a calming retreat called Peaceful Water, a crystal-clear pond surrounded by wooden artwork and plenty of seating to quiet your thoughts [4]. Take a seat on the wooden swings or benches designed by local students, dip your toes in the inviting water, or walk its banks for a soothing reprieve.
Inhale the hearty alpine aromas
Just before the middle station, you'll find gardens of fragrant mountain herbs and flowers perfect for collecting your breath and clearing your senses before embarking on a hike back down the mountain [4].
Adrenaline and culture merge at The Asitz's peak
For those seeking a more thrilling experience, The Asitz in the summer offers an extensive network of trails across the Alps for mountain biking, hiking, and exploring nearby villages [2]. If you'd like to shake things up, consider the Asitz's claim to fame: the Epic Mountain Biking Park.
One of Europe's most celebrated bike parks, it spans over 80km of trails across multiple peaks [2]. Test your mettle on tracks of varying skill levels, all while taking in breathtaking views and strapping in for the ride of a lifetime [2].
For a real adrenaline rush, test out the XXL Flying Fox—one of the steepest and fastest in the world [2]. Soar above the mountains on this 1,600-meter rope line and get your heart pumping!
My time in The Asitz provided exactly what I needed: a chance to pause, gather myself, and recharge. I spent hours reading a book, unpacking my entire suitcase, and listening to hours of classical music in a tiny hut set among The Asitz's peaks. It's a rare find in modern Europe: a place that allows you these indulgent experiences and even encourages you to take time for yourself.
Inhale the fresh alpine air, let the whispers of Bach's sonatas drift into your soul, and immerse yourself in the transformative landscape of The Asitz Mountain, where art and adventure intertwine.
Making it happen:
Getting to The Asitz Mountain:
Fly into Salzburg or Innsbruck during the summer, or take a train from Munich in Germany. If you prefer a greener option, travel by train from London to Amsterdam and change to the overnight Alpine Express, which stops in Saalfelden [1].
Where to stay near The Asitz Mountain:
During my stay, I resided at the peaceful, rustic Stockinggut Hotel. Its wood-clad interiors and breathtaking views of the valley made for a perfect base [1]. You can learn more about my stay at [Stockinggut Hotel Review], or check current prices on Booking.com.
Getting around Saalfelden Leogang:
Contrary to expectations, I found that public transport works well for navigating the area, with the local gondola, bus, and train all providing reliable connections [1]. If you stay in accommodation with a regional card (like Stockinggut), you can use all local public transport for free.
Next stops in Austria:
Once you've explored all there is to see in Saalfelden Leogang, continue your Austrian adventure by exploring other things to do in (Saalfelden Leogang) or heading west towards Innsbruck and Tyrol.
[1] "The Asitz—the Mountain of the Senses for a Summer of Concerts, Art, and Adventure: a Massively updated post from July 2021," Inspired by Travel, https://inspiredbytravelblog.com/austria-in-summer-a-cultural-break-in-the-asitz-mountains-of-salzburg/
[2] "The brightsiderz Epic Bikepark Leogang," Brightsidez, http://www.brightsiderz.at/leogang/
[3] "7 Itineraries in Austria for Plant Lovers," Visit Austria, https://www.visitaustria.com/us/stories/7-itineraries-in-austria-for-plant-lovers
[4] "Experience the Magic of 7 Artful Asitz," artistserie.com, https://artistserie.com/en/experience/the-magic-of-the-7-artful-asitz/
The symphony of concerts at The Asitz Mountain offers an enchanting experience, as the sun fades, The TONspuren concerts fill the air with melodious strings and whispered vocals, serenading audiences amidst the picturesque landscape.
For nature lovers seeking an immersive cultural escape, The Asitz Mountain, the Mountain of the Senses, offers a rare chance to immerse oneself in the great outdoors, with art, music, and alpine cuisine without the grueling hikes.
