The Saalfelden Leogang region in Salzburg's Pinzgau region is leading the way - under the motto "Simply hiking". The idea behind it: Exercise in nature needs no fuss, likes, action or preparation and almost anyone can do it.
"It has been proven that hiking has a positive effect on respiratory diseases, back problems and many other diseases of civilization. We need nature - it's in our genes," explains Univ.-Doz. Dr. Arnulf Hartl, Head of the Institute of Ecomedicine at Paracelsus Medical University in Salzburg. He recently discussed his findings with other experts at the launch event for the Saalfelden Leogang vacation region's new hiking concept. Especially in times when the choice of leisure activities is almost endless, more and more people are returning to the simplicity of hiking. Most people are stressed out in everyday life and rushing from one appointment to the next. This could be precisely where the popularity of hiking lies - the simplicity of movement in nature is the antidote to the complexity of everyday life.
Photo points and hiking pole sharing
The Saalfelden Leogang region is now focusing on this return to hiking and its positive effects - without any spectacular campaigns. "Nature is enough. That's why we don't have any action-packed themed trails in our concept that distract from the essentials. We encourage our guests to simply walk, talk and enjoy nature," explains Marco Pointner, Managing Director of Saalfelden Leogang Touristik. Under the motto "Simply hike", the paths in the region have been supplemented with installations by local craftsmen. For example, there are round benches and forest swings to rest and linger, as well as photo points where hikers can capture their best moments with a camera. Hiking poles can simply be taken along at certain stations and returned at others. Signs along the way remind you to put down your smartphone and be in the here and now. The concept focuses on switching off and the simplicity of hiking.
The most contrasting vacation region in the Alps
The region's marked hiking trails, which cover a total length of 400 kilometers, lead past gentle grassy hills and rugged limestone giants. This means that Saalfelden Leogang has something for leisure hikers who want to hike in a relaxed manner close to the valley, as well as for summiteers who prefer hiking tours in the high Alpine mountains. "True to our motto of Austria's most contrasting vacation region, we offer mountain lovers a variety of different hiking routes against the unique backdrop of the Steinernes Meer," explains Marco Pointner.
