Valley of the springs

A Refreshing Summer Holiday in the Rauris Valley

The Valley of Springs

In the Rauris Valley (Raurisertal) in the province of Salzburg, water shapes the entire landscape. With more than 300 natural springs, over 60 fountains, and roaring waterfalls, this region is one of the most water-rich areas in the entire Hohe Tauern National Park.

The "Valley of Springs" (Tal der Quellen) project brings this precious abundance of water to life during your summer holiday along specially designed trails: sometimes as a refreshing thirst quencher right by the path, sometimes as a cool Kneipp station after a peak tour, or as a peaceful sanctuary to pause and reflect. The 4-star Hotel Rauriserhof is located right in the heart of this unique valley—putting you directly at the source of nature.

Highlights in the Valley of Springs: Rewarding Destinations for Your Hiking Holiday

The Rauris Valley offers hikers, families, and those seeking relaxation very special front-row seats by the water. Here are three natural highlights you should definitely discover during your stay at the Rauriserhof:

  • The Rauris Primeval Spring (Rauriser Urquell): Located in the remote Hüttwinkel Valley, this is one of the most impressive spring sites in the area. Numerous small and large springs emerge here directly from the forest floor. An idyllic water pond, a drinking fountain, and cozy resting areas invite you to linger and listen—an easily accessible hiking destination that is ideal for families with children.
  • "Waldgeheimnis" (Forest Secret) Nature Trail: This mystical circular trail lies directly on the way to the springs. In the middle of the dense forest, a small landslide lake suddenly appears out of nowhere, often disappearing again in late summer as if by magic.
  • Waterfalls in the Kolm Saigurn Valley Head: At the foot of the Hohe Sonnblick mountain, torrents of water plunge down several tiers into the valley. The fine mist enriches the air with natural aerosols—a soothing effect that noticeably clears the airways as you walk along the water.
Straight from the Rauriserhof

Hiking Expertise

As a certified 4-star hiking hotel, the Rauriserhof does not just show its guests the way; we share a genuine passion and deep knowledge of the alpine mountain and water world:

"The Rauris Primeval Spring is one of the most powerful places in the valley for me. When we rest there with our guests during our guided hotel hikes and scoop up the cold, crystal-clear spring water with our hands, everyone instantly feels a deep connection to nature." — Christian, in-house hiking guide at the Rauriserhof

Your Exclusive Hiking Service at the Rauriserhof:

  • Guided Tours: Several times a week, our in-house guides lead you to the most beautiful water trails in the valley.
  • Individual Route Planning: At our hiking info desk, we map out the perfect route for you—precisely tailored to your fitness level and the current weather.
  • Sustainable Enjoyment: Just bring your reusable water bottle on your tour—you can refill it at any time free of charge with the purest Rauris spring water at the hotel and at the certified fountains along the trails.


From the Mountains to the Water: Wellness at the Rauriserhof

After an active day in the Valley of Springs, your water experience continues seamlessly back at the hotel. The BergSpa at the Rauriserhof combines a spacious indoor pool with a heated outdoor pool, offering unobstructed views of the majestic 3,000-meter peaks. Invigorating Kneipp treatments support your recovery after the tour, while soothing massages loosen tired muscles after an extensive hike along the springs.

Ready for Your Summer Getaway?

The summer packages at the Rauriserhof combine your feel-good stay with the benefits of the Nationalpark Sommercard. With this card, you can use numerous excursion destinations, cable cars, and sights in the region completely free of charge or at a heavy discount—the perfect setup to discover the element of water in the Rauris Valley at your own relaxed pace.