Mariapfarr in the Lungau region of Salzburg
Sunny natural paradise & vacation destination
Mariapfarr is a picturesque climatic health resort and vacation village in the Salzburg Lungau region, nestled in the impressive mountains of the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve Salzburg Lungau—a unique natural landscape with clear air, rolling hills, alpine pastures, and deep-rooted traditions.
At over 1,100 m above sea level, Mariapfarr enjoys particularly many hours of sunshine – ideal for summer and winter vacationers of all ages. With around 2,300 inhabitants, the municipality offers restful tranquility, plenty of nature, and at the same time an ideal starting point for sporting adventures and cultural discoveries.
History & Culture – Where “Silent Night” originated
Mariapfarr is one of the oldest settlements in the Lungau region and was first mentioned in documents dating back to 923. The striking parish and pilgrimage basilica “Unsere Liebe Frau” (Our Lady), which was later elevated to the status of a minor basilica, dominates the townscape.
A fascinating part of cultural history: Joseph Mohr, the lyricist of the world-famous Christmas carol “Silent Night! Holy Night!”, wrote the lyrics to the song here in 1816 – a highlight in the parish, pilgrimage, and Silent Night Museum.
If you want to combine a vacation in Mariapfarr with comfort, wellness, and a top location, you will find the ideal vacation home in the Salzburg Lungau region at the AlpenParks Hotel & Apartment Carpe Solem.
Nature & Activities – Active all year round in Lungau
Summer in Mariapfarr
During the warm season, vacationers can expect an outdoor paradise:
- Hiking trails and themed trails through the high alpine landscape—from leisurely walks to challenging tours.
- Mountain bike and e-bike routes through valleys and up to sunny alpine pastures.
- Nordic walking, horseback riding, golf, tennis, and leisure activities for families.
- Mariapfarr outdoor pool – 30-meter lap pool, 26-degree family pool, and children's paddling pool.
Winter in Mariapfarr
The region also offers many winter leisure activities:
- Proximity to popular ski resorts such as Fanningberg, Großeck-Speiereck, Aineck-Katschberg, and Obertauern.
- Cross-country ski trails, toboggan runs, ski tours, snowshoe and winter hiking trails through snow-covered landscapes.
Skiing around Mariapfarr – Salzburg's Lungau region
Mariapfarr is the ideal starting point for a varied skiing holiday in the Lungau region of Salzburg. Several first-class ski resorts are just a short drive away and offer perfect conditions for families, leisure skiers, and ambitious athletes.
The most popular ski resorts around Mariapfarr include Fanningberg, Grosseck-Speiereck, Katschberg-Aineck, and Obertauern, which has guaranteed snow. In total, you can expect over 300 kilometers of perfectly groomed slopes, modern lifts, and sunny runs for all levels of difficulty.
- Fanningberg – family-friendly & sunny
- Grosseck-Speiereck – the largest ski resort in Lungau
- Katschberg-Aineck – sporty & versatile
- Obertauern – guaranteed snow until spring
'Thanks to the central location of the AlpenPark Hotel & Apartment Carpe Solem in Mariapfarr, you can easily reach the ski areas by car or the free ski bus. After a day of skiing, the comfortable apartments and spacious wellness area ensure relaxed relaxation.
AlpenParks Resorts in the Mariapfarr region:
Cuisine & tradition – culinary delights in Lungau
In Mariapfarr and the surrounding area, guests can enjoy authentic Lungau culinary culture—from traditional cuisine in inns and regional specialties to cozy places to stop for refreshments after a hike or ski tour.
Homemade delicacies, alpine restaurants, and rustic huts are particularly popular.
Our restaurant recommendation
Your vacation home in Mariapfarr
The AlpenParks Hotel & Apartment Carpe Solem is located in the heart of Mariapfarr – your perfect starting point for active, wellness, and family vacations in the Lungau region of Salzburg.
- Modern vacation apartments (34–123 m²) for 2–10 people – ideal for families, couples, or groups.
- Direct access to the SAMSUNN Vitality & Wellness Center with saunas, whirlpool, outdoor pool, and relaxation area.
- In-house dining – regional and international cuisine in a stylish atmosphere.
- Perfect location for summer and winter activities with mountain views and sunshine included.
- Lungau Card, which offers numerous discounts and attractions for guests.
- Barrier-free access throughout the building and in all apartments.
AlpenParks Carpe Solem combines vacation, comfort, and nature and is ideal for anyone looking for both relaxation and adventure.
Regional highlights & excursion destinations around Mariapfarr
- UNESCO Lungau Biosphere Reserve – Explore lakes, alpine pastures, and mountain landscapes.
- Mariapfarr Parish and Pilgrimage Basilica – Historical cultural heritage in the village.
- Themed trails and nature paths – Family and adventure trails through flora and fauna.
- Historical traces – e.g., the former castle area and local museums.
Perfect for every type of vacation
Whether you are looking for an active vacation, a family holiday, a wellness break, or a cultural trip, Mariapfarr in Salzburg's Lungau region offers a diverse mix of nature, tradition, and adventure.
In combination with the comfortable AlpenParks Hotel & Apartment Carpe Solem, your vacation will be an unforgettable experience.
Frequently asked questions
for a vacation in Mariapfarr in the Salzburg Lungau region
Where is Mariapfarr located?
Mariapfarr is located in the Lungau region of Salzburg in the south of the province of Salzburg and is considered the sunniest place in Austria.
What is Mariapfarr known for?
Mariapfarr is known for its many hours of sunshine, its historic basilica, and as the birthplace of the lyrics to “Silent Night! Holy Night!”
What activities are there in Mariapfarr?
Hiking, cycling, skiing, cross-country skiing, wellness, and numerous nature and cultural experiences await you in Mariapfarr in the Lungau region of Salzburg.
Which ski resorts can be reached from Mariapfarr?
From Mariapfarr, you can reach the ski resorts of Fanningberg, Grosseck-Speiereck, Katschberg-Aineck, and Obertauern in a short drive.
Where can you stay in Mariapfarr in particular comfort?
The AlpenParks Hotel & Apartment Carpe Solem in Mariapfarr offers modern apartments, a wellness area, and a central location for summer and winter vacations.