European long distance path E6 - Main route Austria

The place

Walking path

Why go

Salzburg (Mozart, Baroque architecture, UNESCO). Gurk Cathedral (12th-century Romanesque). Wörthersee lake resort. Klagenfurt Lindwurm fountain. Carinthian valleys.

A bit of history

The E6 was established by the European Ramblers Association as one of nine major trans-European hiking paths. The Austrian section connects the German E6 continuation (from the Baltic) with the Slovenian section, following old trade and pilgrimage routes between Salzburg (an archbishopric of great historical importance) and the Adriatic hinterland.

Getting there

Salzburg: international airport and main rail hub. Klagenfurt: airport and train from Vienna (3h30).

Recommended gear

Mid-height hiking boots. Waterproof jacket. Standard alpine day hiking kit.

Best season

May to October. Mountain sections snow-free June–October.