In the Salzburg area for “moon walks” in the woods, snowshoe excursions… and the magic of snow crystals
The transition from autumn to winter can be perceived with all the senses, from the colors to the pure white of the snow covering mountains, woods and lakes. The noises seem muffled. Everything becomes calmer, but there is no lack of desire to move and keep fit. L’Austria, when the mountains are covered by heavy snow, it becomes an ideal destination to regenerate in the midst of pristine forests and extraordinary mountain landscapes.
To rediscover the sounds and colors of nature, enclosed between Tyrol, Carinthia, Styria, Upper Austria and bordering Bavaria to the north, the Salzburga mostly mountainous region perfect for snow lovers.
THE WOODS AROUND RAURIS
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We are in the Hohe Tauern National Parkthe largest protected area in the Alps and the largest of the six Austrian National Parks. The village of Rauris is located 950 meters above sea level and its valley is also known as the “Golden Valley of the Alps” because here, once upon a time, people came to look for gold. Today, however, we celebrate it the nature. In the primeval forest, recognized in 2014 as one of the 33 best theme trails in Austria, you can meet hares, chamois, foxes, observe ancient spruces and stone pines. During the day, thousands of little ones snow crystals they sparkle on the branches in the sun and the silence will be interrupted only by the sound of our footsteps on the snow.
THE MAGIC OF SNOW CRYSTALS
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By the way, do you know why snow creaks? When snow falls to the ground, the snow crystals bond together. If you step on the snow, the bonds between the snow crystals break again, audibly like a crunch. The rule is: the colder it is, the stronger it is. If the snow is warmer, there is more water between the crystals. This makes the windows slide and dampens the creaking. That’s why the Rauris Valley it is the perfect place for snowshoeing in the midst of nature.
The racket course
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The snowshoe trail in the Rauris Valley it is well signposted and can also be explored on your own in about 3 hours. The trail is approximately 8 km long and starts from the Alpengasthof Bodenhaus car park, Kolmstr. 6 (1,280 meters above sea level) and reaches the head of the Kolm Saigurn valley (1,600 m).
The prerequisite for asnowshoe excursion in open terrain is to be aware of the dangers of winter, plan the excursion taking into account the weather situation, snow and avalanches and equip yourself accordingly. To be more sure and to know the secrets of these places you can refer to one of the trained rangers of the National Park who offer guided excursions twice a week.
Sports without stress
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There are two proposed routesWednesday one easy snowshoeing and on Friday a more demanding one. The possibility of suggestiveness should also be taken into consideration lunar walk, designed for families with children from 10 years old, which includes a walk under the full moon through the snowy forest and a sleigh ride. The cost of snowshoeing is 18 euros for adults, accompanied children and teenagers (10-16 years) do not pay. The moonwalk is free except for sled rental. Registration is required the day before by 12.00 at theRauris tourist officetel.: +43 6544 20022.
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