Wellness Camping in the Alps

Many Alpine holidaymakers are looking for holistic relaxation. More and more campsite operators have recognised this and have therefore transformed their facilities into oases of well-being. The relaxing offer ranges from classic outdoor and indoor pools, saunas and steam baths to Far Eastern therapies such as meditation and yoga courses. Hikers, climbers and mountain bikers appreciate the additional treatments on offer when they return to the campsite in the mountains.

Destinations

The Alps extend over several countries - Germany, Austria, Italy, Switzerland and France. Alpine wellness on a campsite is possible in all regions of Europe's most beautiful mountain world.

Allgäu Alps

In Germany, the Allgäu region is ideal for wellness camping in the Alps. The region east of Lake Constance boasts numerous first-class wellness campsites in the Alps, which not only offer numerous water sports on the large inland waterways, but also excursions into the lovely to steep mountain world. There are many climatic health resorts in the high mountains. One particularly relaxing place is the Gitzenweiler Hof directly on Lake Constance. The family- and dog-friendly site offers a heated pool and a fitness and physio centre.

Dolomites and South Tyrol

Head for the heights in South Tyrol. The Dolomites, which belong to Italy, offer the best conditions for allergy sufferers. Not only the pure, low-allergen air, but also the wellness campsites allow campers to breathe freely. The Alpin Fitness Waldcamping Völlan is located in the middle of a green paradise. The exceptionally beautifully situated wellness campsite in the Alps is also personal and, with only 70 parcelled-out pitches, quite manageable. In addition to the golf course, the children's playground and outdoor pool attract many families looking for peace and relaxation on their camping holiday.

Swiss Alps

Relaxing at a high level could be the motto of many campsites in the Swiss Alps. With the 4,810 metre high Mont Blanc, the Swiss Alps are home to the highest mountain in the Alps and are a paradise for mountaineers and climbers. In the canton of Valais, Camping La Sarvaz, which has been awarded four ADAC stars, offers a pool, a playground and a mini-golf course.

Top tips

• Those who set off on a wellness camping holiday in the Alps can look forward to the additional attractions of the spa and relaxation resorts. In Tyrol, for example, there is not only one of the most beautiful but also one of the largest wellness oases in Austria. The Aqua Dome in Längenfeld offers 2,000 square metres of sauna and bathing fun. The Erlebnistherme thermal spa in Fügen in the Zillertal may not have the largest pool area, but it does have the longest water slide in western Austria.
• A magnificent view cannot always hide the quality of the food in the mountain huts. At Brixen's local mountain Plose, campers get both: great food and the most beautiful views of the valley. The Göppinger Almhütte in the Limestone Alps is also rustic and delicious.

Activities and excursions

The most beautiful activities and excursions take campervan and motorhome drivers high up in the Alps. Many work up a sweat climbing, hiking or mountain biking. Others can conquer narrow winding roads and mountain passes. The sensational mountain scenery is worth every effort.

To the highest peak in Germany

At 2,962 metres, the Zugspitze is the highest mountain in the German Alps. Three hiking and climbing trails lead ambitious climbers to the summit. Everyone else takes the cable car. In the snowy season, ski lifts take winter sports enthusiasts to the slopes.

Romantic castles

In the Allgäu, the residences built by the fairytale king Ludwig II attract many campers. The Bavarian king's most famous building is Neuschwanstein Castle. It can be visited both from the outside and the inside. Linderhof Castle in Ettal in Upper Bavaria is also well worth a visit. The castle grounds offer a spacious park with water features and rose gardens. It is not far from the Royal Villa Ludwig II to Ettal Abbey. The baroque Benedictine abbey is an architectural masterpiece and is not far from the winter sports resort of Garmisch-Partenkirchen.

Experience the world of ice

The eternal ice beckons at the white peaks of the Alps: the glaciers! Not only professional mountaineers venture onto the smooth surfaces. Guided glacier hikes are also possible for less experienced and beginners. On the 3,369 metre-high Schwarzenstein in the Zillertal, you can hike to the summit in a relaxed manner. The Ötztal Alps offer several three-thousand metre peaks and therefore some challenging glacier experiences. Despite its considerable height, the 3,599 metre-high Similaun is a good glacier for beginners and requires no special skills. The Hintertux Glacier is not only suitable for hiking, downhill skiing is possible all year round on the icy slopes. The Tyrolean glacier is the only year-round ski area in Austria.

Events

The greatest energy in the Alps comes from the healing powers of nature. But cultural and sporting events also ensure well-being.

December - January

• Kindergarten at the Alpentherme: The thermal spa in Gastein offers free childcare during the holidays. Parents can relax in the pool or sauna while the little ones play happily under professional supervision.

April

• Vierbergelauf in Carinthia: Runners test their stamina over a 50 km course and 2,000 m difference in altitude. There is a colourful supporting programme in the mountain villages with lots of information on healthy living.

October - December

• XXL Sauna Night: Every 1st Saturday of the month, the Alpentherme in Ehrenberg opens its sauna area until midnight. You can swim unclothed in the thermal pool and the sauna restaurant invites you to a candlelight dinner.