From Salzburg: 8 hour Horse-Drawn incl. 2-hour Carriage Ride
Hightlight
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English-Speaking
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Group-Friendly
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Reservations
History
Ramsau am Dachstein, nestled at 1,130 meters in the Styrian Alps, emerged as a pastoral haven in the Middle Ages when farmers grazed cattle on its high meadows. The tradition of horse-drawn sleighs began as a practical winter lifeline, transporting hay, firewood, and cheese across snowbound trails.
In the 19th century, Romantic artists and poets discovered its pristine beauty, immortalizing the Dachstein Glacier in paintings and verse. Today, this UNESCO site preserves authentic Alpine culture through timeless sleigh rides.
Highlights
- Embark on a 2-hour horse-drawn sleigh (or carriage) through enchanted winter forests
- Marvel at the majestic Dachstein Glacier and snow-capped Alpine panorama
- Spend 5 leisurely hours in charming Ramsau village
- Warm up at a rustic lodge with hot drinks and regional snacks
- Small-group tour with a lively, bilingual guide
Full Description
Trade Salzburg’s bustle for a magical 8-hour Alpine escape to Ramsau am Dachstein. A scenic 1.5-hour coach ride winds past glittering ski resorts, delivering you to this high plateau village framed by the towering Dachstein massif.
Board your 2-hour sleigh ride (wheeled carriage if low snow), cocooned in wool blankets as gentle horses pull you through pine-scented forests and shimmering meadows. Pause at a cozy Almhütte for Glühwein, cocoa, or Kaiserschmarrn while the horses rest.
Enjoy 5 hours of free time in Ramsau: savor Styrian Knödel at a Gasthaus, stroll frozen streams, or simply inhale the crisp mountain air. Depart at 4 PM via the fairy-tale village of Filzmoos, returning to Salzburg by twilight.
Why Choose This Experience?
This isn’t a rushed photo stop—it’s a full-day immersion in Austria’s winter soul. The extended sleigh journey, generous village time, and passionate guide create a romantic, restorative escape for couples, families, or solo adventurers.
Far from tourist traps, Ramsau offers genuine Alpine serenity and heartwarming local hospitality.
What’s Included
- Round-trip air-conditioned coach from Salzburg
- English/German-speaking guide
- 2-hour horse-drawn sleigh/carriage ride with blankets
- Refreshment stop at a traditional Alpine lodge
- 5 hours free exploration in Ramsau
- Scenic return via Filzmoos
- Insider dining recommendations
- Small group (max 25)
Itinerary
- 8:30 AM: Depart Mirabellplatz
- 10:00 AM: Arrive Ramsau am Dachstein
- 10:15 AM–12:15 PM: 2-hour sleigh/carriage ride + lodge stop
- 12:15 PM–4:00 PM: Free time in village
- 4:00 PM: Depart via Filzmoos
- 5:30–6:00 PM: Return to Salzburg
Pricing
From $116 per person
Meeting Point
Panorama Bus Terminal, Mirabellplatz (corner Hubert Sattler Gasse 1), in front of St. Andrä Church, Salzburg.
How to get there
- Walk 10 minutes from Salzburg Hauptbahnhof
- Bus 1, 3, 4, 6 to Mirabellplatz
- Taxi to St. Andrä Church
- Tram 1 or 2 to Mirabellplatz
Good to Know
What to bring
- Warm layers (thermal base, fleece, waterproof jacket)
- Hat, gloves, scarf, sunglasses
- Waterproof boots with grip
- Camera and cash (euros)
Know before you go
- Sleigh becomes carriage if no snow
- Blankets provided — dress warmly
- Lunch not included — many Gasthäuser
- No pets
- Runs in all weather
- Children under 3 free (lap)
Reviews
- Magical day! Leo was hilarious and knowledgeable — sleigh ride was pure joy!
- Best guide ever! Leo made it unforgettable — love from Holland!
- Stunning scenery, gentle horses, perfect free time — highly recommend!
Maps
Contact
FAQ's
What happens if there’s little or no snow for the sleigh ride, and does it affect the experience?
If snow is insufficient, the 2-hour ride seamlessly switches to a traditional wheeled carriage pulled by the same gentle horses, following the identical scenic route through Ramsau’s forests and meadows. You’ll still be wrapped in thick wool blankets, stop at the cozy Almhütte for hot drinks and snacks, and enjoy the same magical Alpine atmosphere. The Dachstein Glacier and mountain views remain breathtaking year-round, and the carriage offers a nostalgic, fairy-tale charm—perfect for spring or autumn visits.
Where and what do we eat for lunch, and are there vegetarian or gluten-free options?
Lunch is not included in the tour price, giving you full freedom to choose from Ramsau’s charming Gasthäuser and Almhütten. Popular spots serve hearty Styrian classics: Kaiserschmarrn (shredded pancake with applesauce), Knödelsuppe (dumpling soup), Schweinsbraten (roast pork), or Kasnocken (cheese dumplings). Expect €12–18 per person. Vegetarian options like Spinatknödel or salads are widely available; gluten-free dishes (e.g., grilled trout, rice-based meals) can be requested. Your guide provides a map with recommendations and can reserve tables at busy times. During free time, you can also grab Apfelstrudel and coffee at a café or pack a picnic (no food on the sleigh). Cash is king in smaller huts.
How cold does it get, and what exactly should I wear to stay comfortable?
Temperatures in Ramsau range from -5°C to +5°C (23–41°F), with wind chill on the open sleigh. Dress in layers: moisture-wicking thermal base, warm fleece mid-layer, and a waterproof/windproof jacket. Essential accessories include a wool hat, scarf, thick gloves, and sunglasses (snow glare is intense). Wear waterproof boots with good tread—paths and sleigh steps can be icy. The tour provides thick wool blankets per seat, and the lodge stop offers warmth. Avoid cotton (it holds moisture). Hand warmers are a smart extra. Children and seniors stay cozy with proper gear.
Is the tour suitable for young children, seniors, or people with limited mobility?
Absolutely — the sleigh/carriage is gentle and cushioned, with easy step-up access and blankets for all. Children under 3 ride free on laps; ages 3–12 get reduced tickets. Seniors enjoy the relaxed pace, lodge break, and flat village paths. The 2-hour ride has no walking; free time involves light strolling (optional). For limited mobility, inform the guide at booking — they’ll secure front seats and assist boarding. Wheelchair users may need help transferring; the village has some accessible paths. The tour avoids steep hikes, making it ideal for multi-generational groups.
Can I bring my own snacks or thermos on the sleigh, or are outside items restricted?
Outside food and drinks are not permitted on the sleigh due to local hygiene rules and support for the lodge stop. However, the refreshment break offers Glühwein, hot chocolate, tea, or small snacks (€3–6) — perfect for warming up. You’re free to bring a thermos of tea or sealed water bottle for personal use in the village during free time. Many guests buy Lebkuchen or pretzels in Ramsau. This policy keeps the sleigh clean and supports local Alpine businesses. Bottled water is fine in your bag.
