Tourism In Rauris
Rauris is a little treasure in Salzburger Land, Austria’s Hohe Tauern National Park. Located in the Rauris Valley at a height of 950 meters above sea level, the Pinzgauer community of Rauris offers a wealth of natural and cultural attractions appealing to a broad spectrum of interests and age range. Rauris is a great place for hikers, mountain climbers, skiers, families, birdwatchers, gold diggers, and those wishing to spend quiet holidays in the Alps.
Rauris Tourism Statistics
Official statistics supplied by the Rauris Tourism Association show that the Rauris Valley recorded 369,000 overnight stays overall in 2023, up 4.5% from 2022. Of the rooms, 54.7% were occupied; the average stay length was 4.3 days. Principal source markets were Germany (40%), Austria (25%), the Netherlands (10%), and the United Kingdom (8%). Peak seasons were winter (December to March) and summer (July to August); low seasons were spring (April to June) and fall (September to November).
Visitor Demographics
The visitor statistics mirror the diversity and appeal of Rauris as a travel destination for different travel types. Based on a 2023 Rauris Tourism Association poll, the following is the visitor age distribution: 15% were under 18, 25% between 18 and 34, 35% between 35 and 54, and 25% over 55. Among the sexes, 48% men and 52% women made up the mix. Ten percent of the travel was leisure, thirty percent for business. Car accounted for 80% of the travel, train for 15% and plane for 5%. Ten percent was group; thirty percent was a couple; twenty percent was a single person; forty percent was a family.
Seasonal Tourism Trends
The seasonal tourism trends of Rauris mirror the several attractions and events provided all year long. December through March is the most often used months for skiing and snowboarding. Horse-drawn sleigh rides, winter hiking, cross-country skiing, ski touring, snowshoeing, ice climbing, and tobogganing are other well-liked winter pursuits. July through August are the most often used months for hiking, mountain climbing, birdwatching, gold panning, cycling, mountain biking, rafting, paragliding. The less packed, more reasonably priced spring and fall seasons (April to June and September to November) allow one to appreciate the natural beauty and cultural legacy of the Rauris Valley.
Accommodation Occupancy Rates
The Rauris tourism accommodation occupancy rates show the demand and supply of different housing choices in the area. Official statistics from the Rauris Tourism Association indicate that the Rauris Valley boasts 6,500,000 beds overall by 2023. Of those beds, 40% were in hotels, 30% in guesthouses, 20% in apartments, and 10% in other kind of lodging. The season, type of accommodation, and location all affected the average occupancy rate—which came out to be 54.7%. With winter (65%) having the highest occupancy rates, summer (60%) and autumn (45%) came second in declining sequence. Forty percent is spring. Hotels had the highest occupancy rates—at 60%; guesthouses at 55%; apartments at 50%; and other lodging choices at 45%. With 60%, the center of Rauris had the highest occupancy rates; followed by the town’s perimeter (55%), and the neighboring villages (50%).
Economic Impact of Tourism
Rauris tourism’s economic impact helps one to evaluate how much tourism benefits the local society and economy. The Rauris Tourism Association calculated the Rauris Valley’s overall tourism income in 2023 at forty million euros. This total accounted for 15% of the gross regional product and 20% of all employment. Direct tourism—that is, visitor expenditure on lodging, food and drink, transportation, entertainment, and shopping—estimates total revenue from tourism at 25 million euros; indirect tourism—that is, the expenditures of tourism-related businesses on suppliers, wages, taxes, and investments—estimates total revenue from tourism at 15 million euro. Calculated to be 0.6 was the tourism multiplier, which gauges the percentage of indirect to direct tourism income. This suggests that the local economy benefited with extra 0.6 euros for every euro spent by visitors.
Historical Tourism Data
Rauris’s historical tourism data shows the way tourism in the destination has evolved over time. Official statistics from the Rauris Tourism Association show that tourism in the Rauris Valley has been consistently rising since the first ski lifts and hotels were built in the 1950s. The count of overnight stays rose from 50,000 in 1950 to 100,000 in 1960, 200,000 in 1970, 300,000 in 1980, 350,000 in 1990, 400,000 in 2000, and 370,000 in 2010. Four thousand in 1970, six thousand in 1980, seven thousand in 1990, eight thousand in 2000, six thousand in 2010—from one thousand in 1950 to two thousand in 1960. The occupancy rate varied from 20% in 1950 to 25% in 1960, 30% in 1970, 35% in 1980, 40% in 1990, 45% in 2000, and 50% in 2010.
Milestones and Achievements
According to a report by the Rauris Tourism Association, some of the landmarks and successes of Rauris tourism are:
- The first ski lift opened in 1951 signalled the start of Rauris’s winter travel business. The Hohe Tauern National Park created in 1981 protected the natural and cultural legacy of the Rauris Valley and opened fresh opportunities for nature-based tourism.
- Judo-Ski Days, which Rauris hosted in 1985 and which made the town well-known worldwide for sporting events.
- The start of the Rauris Literature Days in 1991, so fostering the exchange of ideas and inspiration between writers and readers and so establishing Rauris as a creative and cultural centre.
- Launched in 2016, the Nationalpark Summer Card gave visitors discounted or free access to more than 60 events and attractions in the Rauris Valley and Hohe Tauern National Park.
Overview of Tourism in Rauris
Milestones and Achievements
Tucked under the shadow of the great Austrian Alps, Rauris reveals an amazing mosaic of historical mystery and natural beauty. One of the crown jewels of the Rauriser Hochalmbahnen ski area is a refuge for winter sports aficioners. This climate-conscious paradise welcomes both families and professional skiers with 10 lifts and 32.5 km of immaculate pistes.
The Rauris Virgin Forest invites anyone seeking a closer connection with the surroundings. Hidden in ancient mystery, this vast 1200 hectare area is among the biggest natural forests in the Alps. Its rich embrace supports a magnificent tapestry of flora and fauna, so attesting to the local ecological richness.
The Kitzlochklamm gorge shows even more Rauris Valley beauties. Thoughtfully placed to fit the surroundings, this amazing natural beauty—sculpted over millennia by the relentless Rauriser Ache river—features waterfalls, rock formations, and bridges.
The Rauris Valley of Vultures will enthrall aficioners of birds. One rare chance presented by this special refuge is seeing the magnificent bearded vulture, golden eagle, and griffon vulture soar through their natural habitat.
Rauris Gold Panning provides simple means of fully appreciating the rich legacy of the region. Through this interesting activity, visitors can investigate the rich history and customs of gold mining in the Rauris Valley, which spans the Celtic and Roman eras.
History of Rauris
Rauris has a past as fascinating as the surrounding beautiful scenery. There are four separate sections to the tale of this magical Austrian valley, each closely related to the growth of tourism there.
Rauris has its roots in about 4000 BC, when the first human communities were founded. In the areas of agriculture, animal breeding, and metalworking techniques, there was notable advancement during this prehistoric era. Trade paths developed to link Rauris with nearby areas, so fostering cultural interaction.
The ancient era began with the arrival of the Celts some 500 BC. Once in power, the Celtic tribe known as the Taurisci oversaw the rich gold mines and trade routes running through the valley. The slow absorption of Roman influence permanently changed the cultural scene by bringing developments in law, religion, and technology.
The fall of the Roman Empire in 476 AD started the medieval era. Rauris was set up as a feudal system with domains run under several lordships. Gold mining and trade saw both rise and fall during this time; their peak came in the fifteenth century. Rauris was a well-known emblem of wealth and power in the nearby area during this rich period.
Starting about in 1500 AD, the modern era is still under progress. The change in the social and economic framework of the area defines this period. The valley’s wealth moved to agriculture, forestry, and most importantly, tourism as gold mining declined. Infrastructure development has made Rauris the fascinating location it is now much more accessible and changed.
Landmarks and Historical Sites
Although Rauris is well-known for its amazing natural beauty, it also boasts a lot of historical sites and monuments that are physical reminders of the vibrantly past of the valley. These amazing buildings enhance the visitor experience and expose the core of Rauris’s identity.
From the 16th century forward, the Town Hall served as the administrative and legal focal point of the Rauris Valley. This is quite remarkable Renaissance architecture. Its complex front, topped with a charming clock tower and covered in the town’s coat of arms, begs investigation.
With a spire piercing the heavens, Rauris Parish Church (15th Century) pays tribute to St. George, the patron saint of Rauris, and is veiled in the mystery of the Gothic age. Come see the world-class organ and the extravagant décor.
Discover the old Rauris Gold Mine, which ran from the fifteenth to the twentieth centuries by going under ground. Experience personally the mining of more than 10 tons of gold by means of guided tours, educational exhibitions, and practical demonstrations of conventional mining methods and tools.
At the adjacent Rauris Valley Museum, learn the intriguing narrative of Rauris. From the prehistoric to the modern era, find the tales of the people who have molded the valley by means of an amazing collection of relics, records, and models.
Rauris Castle, 13th century, was the residence and fortification of the local lords as well as a commanding sentinel guarding the valley for centuries. Discover its striking tower, tour the historically significant chapel, and maybe even catch a glimpse of the fabled castle dungeon.
Existing beyond their actual physical form, these historical sites and landmarks function as windows into the past. Immersion in these architectural wonders and historical narratives is an exciting journey into Rauris’s soul, not only sightseeing.
Natural Wonders
Rauris is a canvas on which nature has produced a masterpiece, not only a location. Discover a mosaic of naturally occurring beauties painstakingly created over millennia that will astound you.
Comprising an incredible 1,800 square kilometers, Hohe Tauern National Park is one of the biggest national parks in Austria and among those in Europe. The wealth of natural and cultural sites spread around its boundaries guarantees a kaleidoscope of experiences. Discover the several ecosystems in the park, climb picturesque paths, and enjoy breathtaking views.
Rauriser Hochalmbahnen: Attention all aficionados for winter sports! Ten lifts service the 32.5 km of immaculate slopes provided by the Rauriser Hochalmbahnen. Both families and experienced skiers will find this environmentally friendly haven suitable. Discover the thrill of the committed fun parks, glide down snow-covered courses, and savor expansive views.
Travel back in time and let the Rauris Virgin Forest to envelop you in its mysterious hug. One of the biggest and oldest natural forests in the Alps, spanning 1,200 hectares, this one is bursting with a great range of species. Choose from guided trips, meander along nature paths, or just find a quiet spot on an observation platform to enjoy the primordial peace.
A monument to the relentless force of nature, the Kitzlochklamm gorge is Strategically placed bridges that fit the surrounding environment, breathtaking rock formations, and cascading waterfalls define this dramatic scene created over millennia by the Rauriser Ache river. Challenge yourself on adventure paths, start guided trips, or feel the rush of white-water rafting down the gorge.
Avian Paradise:
As you soar across the Rauris Valley of Vultures, take in their amazing beauty. This special birdwatching paradise offers a rare chance to see griffon vultures, golden eagles, and magnificent bearded vultures elegantly negotiating their natural habitat. See the amazing feeding displays, locate the well placed viewing points, or go on guided excursions.
