Local Mountains in Salzburg

Untersberg, Kapuzinerberg, Gaisberg, Nonnberg, Monchsberg

These hills and mountains in and around Salzburg are traditional symbols of the city and are held in great affection by its inhabitants. From their summits there are superb views of the city and its surroundings.

The Untersberg

This towering mountain to the south of Salzburg is a popular attraction. In summer, walkers will enjoy exploring the network of numerous paths; in winter, skiers will find a superb downhill run. The cable-car operates all year round and provides walkers, skiers, and other visitors with a comfortable way of reaching the summit with a minimum amount of effort. As the cable car ascends, passengers can enjoy magnificent views of the surrounding countryside. Then, at the top station, the more energetic have several options to choose from: demanding climbing routes, ice caves, and mountain paths through magical unspoilt scenery. Cosy huts are ready to welcome walkers and tourists who need a break - after a cold drink and a satisfying bite to eat, you'll soon regain your strength for the next stage of your outing.

The Kapuzinerberg

At 636 metres, the Kapuzinerberg (previously known as the Imberg) is the highest hill in the city of Salzburg. Its lower slopes were inhabited as long ago as the Stone Age; today, they are the site of a Capuchin monastery that can be seen from afar. Stefan Zweig's Villa (privately owned) and a memorial to Mozart can also be found on the Kapuzinerberg, which is popular among the residents of Salzburg as a quiet place to relax because of the dense forest that covers its slopes. The hill is crossed by many paths that have become favourite walking and jogging routes. Despite the city that surrounds it, the Kapuzinerberg is still very much in the hands of nature - it is not only the habitat of rare birds and squirrels but also home to a small colony of chamois!

The Gaisberg (1,286 metres)

The Gaisberg is the defining hill of Salzburg and a popular destination not least because of the breath-taking panorama that can be admired from its summit on a fine day. When the air is clear, the view from the top stretches from the Chiemsee lake in the west to the Dachstein mountain in the south. The Gaisberg is linked to the city centre by a bus route starting from the Mirabellplatz square. The Gaisberg Circular Walk is ideal if you want to add a little exercise to your visit. Guests will find a warm welcome in any of the numerous bars and restaurants for visitors.

The Nonnberg

The convent run by Benedictine nuns on the Nonnberg has been active without interruption for longer than any other convent in the German-speaking countries. Its origins can be traced back to St Rupert, who founded the convent for his niece Erentrudis in around A.D. 700. The Romanesque frescoes (c. 1150) in the crypt of the late Gothic basilica were only revealed a few years ago. The Chapel of St John, with its altar in the style of Veit Stoß (1458), is also worth seeing.

The Mönchsberg

The Mönchsberg, plinth of the fortress that commands the city, is another place that is popular among residents in search of peace and quiet away from the bustle of the city. Narrow paths wind through the idyllic woodland, and children are not the only ones who will find plenty of room to unwind here. In winter, local children meet to go sledging on the Mönchsberg.