Bivouac "Quelle"

Camping and Glamping
The luxury of waking up in nature

Experience nature with all your senses from the moment you open your eyes in the morning: Camping is a unique holiday philosophy – discover Austria's most beautiful spots

Camping makes you happy!

Waking up under towering treetops, grass beneath your feet outside the caravan, birdsong in the air, and a view of the mirror-like lake. A friendly “Good morning” from your neighbour. The coffee is already brewing, and everything moves at a calm pace. No rush, no stress. This is how life usually feels at the campsite.

Camping simply makes you happy. It’s incredibly relaxing and even good for your health – several studies prove it. But why is that?

  • You can fully unwind in nature. Peace and relaxation help regenerate both body and mind.

  • Campsites are social places, where you make new friends. Social connections contribute to well-being.

  • Plenty of fresh air and Vitamin D strengthen your immune system.

  • Campers rely less on artificial light, improving the function of your biological clock, leading to deeper sleep.

  • The sense of freedom at a campsite slows you down: No obligations, and the joy of doing nothing!

The most beautiful camping regions

Camping and glamping brings you especially close to nature. It's a joy to choose between mountains and lakes. Summer or winter? Campsites can be found in every holiday region and at any time of the year.

The most beautiful campsites

The clear air, the gentle lapping of the lake's waves and the view of the mountains create a deep connection with nature. Every moment invites you to fully savour the tranquillity and beauty of the day.

Want to camp sustainably in Austria? The Austrian environmental seal recognises campsites with particularly environmentally friendly facilities.

Glamping – when you want a bit more

For those who don’t want to compromise on comfort and appreciate a touch of luxury in both amenities and location, the mix of "glamour" and "camping" is the perfect solution: Glamping offers the best of both worlds.

Packing list for your camping and glamping holidays

A night in a tent can be a real adventure. With this checklist, you'll be well prepared for your holiday in the great outdoors.

Equipment

  • Tent or van equipment

  • Sleeping bag and sleeping mat (suitable for the season)

  • Camping chair and a small table

  • Headlamp or lantern

  • Small cooking set: gas stove, pot/pan, cutlery

  • Drinking bottle and power bank

  • Rain and sun protection 

Clothing

  • Comfortable clothing for indoors and outdoors

  • Warm jumpers or jackets for cool evenings

  • Sturdy shoes for hiking

This and that

  • First aid kit

  • Insect repellent

  • Bath towel

  • Cool box or cooler bag

  • Rucksack for excursions 

FAQ

Camping in alpine areas above the tree line is regulated differently depending on the province in Austria. While special access laws apply in provinces like Carinthia or Styria, other regions such as Tirol have their own camping regulations. There are no uniform rules – anyone planning to spend the night in the mountains should make sure to check the local regulations in advance.

Camping in the forest is prohibited throughout Austria – unless you have the explicit permission of the landowner.

With classic camping, you stay in your own tent, caravan or van and are largely self-sufficient. You bring your own equipment and can organise your stay very flexibly. Glamping combines being close to nature with added comfort: you sleep in safari tents, tiny houses or lodges with real beds, private bathrooms and often even a small kitchen. These units are permanently set up and offer far more amenities, while still being surrounded by nature.

The most popular time for camping in Austria is between May and September, when temperatures are pleasantly warm and most campsites are fully open. Many sites start their season as early as April and remain open until October. Winter camping is also possible, with selected campsites in ski resorts or valley locations that operate year-round. Opening times and conditions vary greatly depending on the region, altitude and weather, so it is worth checking in advance.

Most campsites in Austria welcome dogs. A small fee is often charged, and dogs usually need to be kept on a lead throughout the site. Some campsites offer dedicated dog areas, while others restrict access to certain facilities. As rules and services vary, it is best to check directly with the campsite before your stay.

During the high season, especially in July and August and around popular lakes, booking ahead is strongly recommended. Campsites also fill up quickly during public holidays and school holiday periods. Outside the main season, it is often possible to find a pitch at short notice. Glamping accommodation is more limited and in high demand, so advance booking is advisable.

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