There's one moment we look forward to every summer here at the Rauriserhof: a child kneels at the stream, swirling the pan with total concentration – and then that gasp of delight when a tiny, golden flake suddenly flashes up between the dark sand. That's exactly why so many of our guests come to the Raurisertal.
This valley in Austria's Salzburg region has more than earned its nickname, "the golden valley of the Alps." For centuries, prized Tauern gold was drawn from these mountains, right around what is now the Hohe Tauern National Park. That history is still tangible today – and on your summer holiday, you can experience it with your own hands. Gold panning in Rauris isn't a museum behind glass; it's a genuine encounter with nature for families, the curious, and anyone who wants to leave everyday life behind at the water's edge.
Before you set off, here are the key points that will make your gold-panning day nice and relaxed:
Heimalm: the family-friendly classic
Right at the mid-station of the Rauris Hochalm cable cars lies the gold and mineral panning site at the Heimalm – our tip for families with younger children. Here, an experienced team shows you at an unhurried pace how to separate the light sand from the heavy gold using the classic pan. No prior knowledge required, and nobody leaves empty-handed.
What children love most here: mineral panning with a guaranteed gemstone find, the little play stream to cool off in on hot days, and the mascot Tilly, who keeps things lively with treasure-hunt activities.
Our tip for a full day out: ride the cable car up to the top station and take in the impressive birds-of-prey show at the Hochalm. Afterwards, stroll gently down the Tilly forest nature trail to the Heimalm – and round off the day at the panning site. It's a well-balanced outing that combines mountain railway, nature, and adventure.
Bodenhaus: the untouched experience in the valley basin
About 14 kilometres further on, in the Bucheben area and just past the historic Bodenhaus inn, waits the second site – more natural, quieter, right on the crystal-clear Rauriser Ache river. It's at exactly this spot that the river has always slowed its pace, depositing the finest gold particles in the sand over the centuries. If you're seeking the calm of the Hohe Tauern National Park, this is the place.
Our tip for a full day out: combine your gold panning with a hike through the Kolm Saigurn valley basin – to the legendary Rauris primeval forest, for example, or to the thundering waterfalls. After the walk, the Bodenhaus is the perfect place to rest: feet in the cool water, pan in hand, and just breathe.
"You have to be able to read the stream," one of our team likes to say. And there's truth in that: anyone who understands which bends and which rock barriers the heavy gold collects behind holds the best cards. But don't worry – the technique itself takes about five minutes to learn:
The best part? It isn't about a quick result. It's about the slow swirling, the glitter in the water, and the small moments of triumph in between.
With us, the gold-panning fun begins right at reception – at no extra cost. That's because the Nationalpark SommerCard Mobil is included in your room rate from the very first night. In practical terms, that means:
And once your gold fever has been satisfied for the day? Then unwind in our spa area or savour regional cuisine on our sun terrace. That's how you combine real adventure with the comfort you've earned on holiday.
