11 European Mountain Escapes Beyond the Ski Slopes

10. Grossglockner, Austria

Austria’s highest peak, Grossglockner, towers over an alpine wonderland known for its glacier walks and wildflower meadows. In the national park, alpine gardens bloom with rare species through late spring and summer. Heiligenblut, a storybook mountain village, serves as a launch point for panoramic drives, high-altitude dairies, and artisan woodcarvers eager to share their craft. Arrive by scenic road from Salzburg or Lienz; buses connect during the summer season. Local inns and guesthouses provide cozy bases and often include traditional dinners featuring regional cheeses and cured meats. Visiting in May or September brings fewer crowds while preserving the dramatic landscape’s full color and energy. Grossglockner is suited for travelers craving adventure and alpine culture without racing the crowds.