If you are looking for an unforgettable travel destination in 2023, then you should definitely discover the Austrian Alpes. As they were recently listed in the renowned "Best of the World 2023" issue of National Geographic under the category of  "Adventure."

Every year, the list is compiled by National Geographic's international editorial staff and honors the top 5 most extraordinary and exciting vacation locations worldwide across five categories (Family, Adventure, Culture, Nature, and Community).

An Outdoor Playground For Adventurers

Austrians are extremely proud of the Alps because they were built with sustainability and environmental responsibility in mind. After all, the Alps make up more than 60% of the nation and are both the Austrians' natural home and the most significant place for sports and activities.

The majestic Austrian Alps stretch across the country from East to West, an awe-striking area of Ice Age valleys, verdant heaths, and alluvial cones within Europe's largest national park, 700-square-mile Hohe Tauern.

The Austrian Alps are a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, including the picturesque cities of Salzburg and Innsbruck, the lovely region of Tirol, which offers breathtaking hiking and skiing trails as well as Grossglockner, Austria's highest peak.

Alpine Adventures All-Year Round

When it comes to outdoor activities, visitors to Austria should expect to find plenty of choices. Consider the Alps as an outdoor adventure playground in a breathtaking natural setting that will quickly help you forget the difficulties of city life.

The Austrian Alps are primarily a winter destination for many people, offering excellent skiing, including for families, at a reasonable price. There are also a ton of thrilling activities that may be done that are not related to skiing, such as cross-country skiing, winter hiking, snowshoeing, tobogganing, exploring ice caves, and even winter kayaking and canoeing. Among the all-time favorites are winter destinations like Arlberg, Zell am See - Kaprun, and Kitzbühel.

But the narrative goes much deeper than Austria's winter splendor. The Austrian Alps transform into an adventure park for hikers and bikers of all skill levels as soon as the snow has melted, with paths heading up and down the peaks as well as along stunning waterfalls and mountain lakes, as well as through breathtaking national parks. 

The list of options is practically unlimited, but popular summer places like the Zillertal or St. Johann in Tirol are at the top. And more than just the easier adventures are in store. Mountain biking, white-water rafting, zip-lining, and even bungee jumping are all options for tourists seeking an exhilarating high in the Alpine region.

A Place to Relax and Rewind

Adventurers in the Austrian Alps will also benefit from the health advantages of exercise in the clean mountain air. For decades, researchers from Harvard and Oxford, and other renowned institutions have demonstrated that spending time in nature enhances both our physical and mental health, even for people who already have underlying problems.

 Ride the cable car to the top of the mountain, then stroll around and take in the scenery before stopping at a mountain lodge for a well-earned break (and to enjoy some delicious Austrian food while enjoying the stunning view).

The mountains are a wonderful spot to unwind, chill, and recharge when you need some time off from your busy daily life while creating some lasting memories of this beautiful place.

Read more about outdoor adventures in Austria

Main image credit: (c) Olpererhuette_Manuel-Daum