Hohe Tauern national park

The Hohe Tauern national park in the heart of the Austrian Alps is the most extensive protected area in central Europe and stretches over a total surface area of 1,800 sq km. The area is situated in the three Austrian regions of East Tyrol, Salzburg and Kärnten and is embedded among the highest peaks of Austria, including the Großglockner (3,798 m a.s.l.).

The most characteristic plants of the area are the Alpine toad-flax, the cinquefoil (part of the rosaceae), the stevia, cotton grass (family of the sorrels), as well as pine and larch trees. The park is a natural habitat for animals such as ibexes, alpine and fire salamanders, owls, water pipits, deer and many others.

In the Hohe Tauern national park you can undertake relaxing walks along the several educational and natural paths which are suitable for children as well. In fact, little guests can discover interesting facts on nature, and the local flora and fauna thanks to interactive boards and games.
St. Jakob in the Defereggental is the starting point of the "Blumenlehrweg", a path dedicated to plants which focuses on the huge variety of plants and its levels. Another itinerary you should definitely not miss is the "Wasserschaupfad Umbalfälle" leading from Prägraten to a glacier stream of the Hohe Tauern. This easy hike can be completed in about 2-3 hours and is suitable also for families with children.