HOPFGARTEN

This picturesque city sits on the border of Germany and Austria and overlooks the snow capped Eastern Alps mountains. The city is full of medieval baroque buildings, beer halls, a towering castle, cable cars, and musical hills. Yup, Salzburg is home to ‘The Sound of Music’, and you can relive the musical magic on a tour of the city. A Sound of the Music tour will take you to some key places featured in the film, whilst also offering a great historical insight into this charming city. Come nightfall, an array of bars and restaurants will keep you cosy on a cold winter's eve.

Ever heard of bobbahn? It’s basically everyone’s favourite snowy childhood activity - tobogganing! Make your way up the mountain and jump on board a mini sleigh like toboggan for some serious snow fun. A portion of the piste is roped off and groomed specifically for tobogganers, giving you a long run to get some decent speed up. Twist and turn down the mountain, feeling a whole lot safer then when doing it on skis!

We may have mentioned that our special stay in Hopfgarten, Gasthof Schoneck, is pretty epic. Decked out with a sauna and chilled common room, it’s also got it’s very own bar where the après action goes on into the early hours. Here, you can expect schnappy hour (which is essentially a snowboard full of schnapps shots) to get everyone into the party spirit. And then there's the legendary tight, white and bright party, where the dancefloor lights up with an array of all white outfits, as you dance the night away with your Contiki pals.

Contiki special stays don’t get much better than this. The Contiki owned Gasthof Schoneck, is a traditional and exclusive Austrian guesthouse located in the pretty Tyrolean village of Hopfgarten. Recently renovated, this place brings a whole new meaning to chic, whilst still holding onto its authentic roots. Expect quad-share rooms, a lounge area, dining room, our very Bar Schoneck, and even a sauna. And let’s not forget this rustic ski lodge is all yours to enjoy with your Contiki family. Pretty much the perfect place to rest your heads, go hard on schnappy hour or unwind after an epic day on the slopes.

Come Spring, the Austrian Alps transforms into lush rolling hills filled with natural waterfalls, vast lakes and charming villages. The best way to experience it all is on a bicycle of course, so why not grab 2 wheels and head for the hills where you’ll be able to see the beautiful landscape and take in the fresh air and chilled vibes of these damn right stunning surroundings. Get your cameras at the ready because these views are about to get seriously real! And once you’re all cycled out, head back to base and refuel your energy levels with a BBQ lunch - think burgers, sausages, and condiments galore. Yes please!

Spring/summer time in the Austrian Alps is all about outdoor adventures, and what better way to get your pulse racing than with a spot of white water rafting? With its thundering rivers, lush landscape and mighty rapids, the Tirol is one of the best places for a white water rafting adventure. These inflatable boats cater for everyone from beginners to advanced rafters, and prove a great team bonding activity for you and your fellow Contiki pals. With plenty of rivers to choose from, whitewater rafting in the this region can take you from wild waves to gentle rapids.