Open through the Salzburg region
The Salzburg region is perfectly designed for open-top drives with the convertible: impressive mountain roads, crystal-clear lakes, and charming towns alternate, making each stage an experience. A convertible tour in Austria here means not only driving pleasure but also enjoying culture and nature. On this varied convertible route, you will travel from Salzburg over Lake Wolfgang and the Tennengebirge to the Hohe Tauern and back again. It’s a circuit that offers both alpine adventures and relaxed stops at lakes.
Overview of the Route
The tour starts in the Mozart city of Salzburg, initially leading to Lake Wolfgang, then through the Tennengebirge and Radstadt into the Obertauern region. From there, it continues over the Gastein Valley and Zell am See to the heart of the Hohe Tauern. Finally, the route takes you back to Salzburg via Saalfelden and Lofer. Covering about 320 kilometers, this convertible route links everything that makes a perfect convertible journey: diverse landscapes, cultural highlights, and countless panoramic views.
First Stage: Salzburg – Lake Wolfgang – Tennengebirge
It begins in Salzburg, where the old town with its cathedral, Hohensalzburg Fortress, and Getreidegasse entices you. But just a few kilometers outside the city, the landscape unfolds. With the top down, you leave the urban flair behind and drive straight into the idyllic surroundings.
The first destination is Lake Wolfgang. It’s worth taking a break on the shore here, as the view over the sparkling lake to the mountains is unforgettable. The convertible route then continues through the Salzburg Lake District – an area that is made for a relaxed convertible journey. A particularly nice detour is to St. Gilgen or Strobl, where quaint cafés sit right by the water. Near the lakes, there are numerous viewpoints inviting short stops.
Then the road winds towards the Tennengebirge. The drive through narrow valleys, past rock walls and waterfalls, showcases the alpine side of this convertible route. Driving the convertible is particularly enjoyable here when mastering the serpentines with ease.
Second Stage: Radstadt – Obertauern – Gastein Valley
The next stop is Radstadt, a small historic town with medieval charm. From here, the convertible route leads upwards to Obertauern, a well-known ski resort that radiates wonderful calm in summer. The fresh mountain air, the clear panorama, and the winding roads are a paradise for anyone seeking a true convertible road trip.
Next, you head into the Gastein Valley, where Bad Hofgastein and Bad Gastein impress with their thermal springs and special Belle Époque architecture. Those who wish can stop here to relax in the warm waters. A short walk through Bad Gastein shows how the grandeur of the resort blends with the natural scenery. This region is a highlight on every convertible trip, as the combination of driving pleasure and cultural heritage is unique.
Third Stage: Zell am See – Hohe Tauern – Saalfelden – Lofer
From Gastein, the convertible route leads to Zell am See. Here, the lake with its turquoise surface contrasts with the mighty peaks of the Hohe Tauern. Driving along the shore in the convertible gives a feeling of pure freedom. Nearby is the Schmittenhöhe, which serves as an excellent viewpoint.
The tour continues through the Hohe Tauern National Park, a region that fascinates with alpine panoramas and quiet valleys. Via Saalfelden, you finally reach Lofer, a place with a picturesque old town and inviting inns. Here, you can enjoy the local cuisine once more before heading back to Salzburg, where the loop concludes.
Tips for Your Convertible Tour
The best time for this convertible tour in Austria is between May and October when the passes are snow-free. Allow plenty of time to take breaks at lakes or viewpoints. Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a light jacket are essential in your luggage, as it can get cool at higher altitudes. For those who love comparisons: a convertible tour in Switzerland offers similar panoramas, but the Salzburg region impresses with its compact variety of lakes, mountains, and culture.
Conclusion – Convertible Journey Through the Salzburg Region
From Salzburg over Lake Wolfgang and the Tennengebirge, through Radstadt, Obertauern, and the Gastein Valley to Zell am See, the Hohe Tauern, Saalfelden, and Lofer: this convertible tour impressively connects driving pleasure, culture, and nature. If you’re looking for a varied convertible route that offers both panoramic roads as well as tranquil lakes and charming towns, you’ll find the perfect convertible road trip here. Driving with the top down makes this convertible tour an unforgettable experience – a journey you should definitely take at least once.
