Adventures in the Alps

52 adrenalin-fuelled ways to defy the abyss

Mountains exercise a strange fascination on mankind. On the one hand they are barriers, on the other they invite one to cross them, and pursue sports and leisure activities of all sorts in them. However - and that is the first thing trainers teach holiday-makers - these things should not happen without respect for and knowledge of the challenges and dangers of the high alpine world.

Carinthia’s Natural Arena has put together 52 programmes under the slogan “Adventures in the Alps”, which are certainly challenging, but also very well-thought-out.

It makes no difference whether the activities go over rivers and lakes, through the countryside, up steep tracks and footpaths or to dizzy heights on ropes, energetic visitors learn here how to meet these challenges safely and enjoyably.

Mega Dive

The largest swing in the Alps spans the Lesachtal valley. On the Mega Dive one can swing above the treetops on 70 metre long steel ropes under one of the highest bridges in the Lesachtal. The terrific sweep downwards reaches up to 100 k.p.h. To ensure that nothing goes wrong, “riders” are securely fastened to their harness, and experienced mountain guides watch over their charges.

Acapulco Jump

Far below, the deep blue of the lake Weissensee ; high above, the azure blue sky. In-between, just air and courage. Enthusiastic swimmers standing up there on the cliff really have got guts. Anyone who then wants to imitate the Acapulco jump and dive into the depths is rewarded with an adrenalin rush and its associated “high”. Not forgetting the looks of wonderment on the faces of spectators.

Canyoning

The activity is quickly described: one puts on a neoprene suit, as well as boots, a climbing harness and a helmet. The alpine sportsman is then ready to be roped down into the gorge for “canyoning”. Once down, it’s then more a mixture of swimming, jumping and sliding through the mountain stream. A cold shower is always guaranteed, even in high summer. There are a total of five different ravines and gorges available .

Hydrospeed and Rafting

Water is again involved in this terrific adventure. With hydrospeeding, the alpine sportsman, again dressed in neoprene, lies on a board and hurtles down with the torrent. With the tried and tested rafting, you ride the white water for a group experience.
Eight men or women paddle a rubber dinghy through the rapids of the Gail or Isel. An experienced helmsman makes sure that the rafters have fun and a proper measure of adventure.

Rock Labyrinth

The Rock Labyrinth with its numerous attractions on the Nassfeld is the ideal playground for everybody. Only after a thorough introductory talk by trained guides and the successful completion of a test course are the participants, equipped with helmet, belt and climbing kit, allowed on the various climbing routes. One can swing on a rope from tree to tree like Tarzan on the Flying Fox Mile . And for the youngsters there’s the Children’s Flying Fox.