Three Scenic Spots for Von Trapp Vibes in 2025

Celebrating its 60th anniversary this year, “The Sound of Music” is a beloved classic movie that whisks viewers away to the stunning Austrian Alps, where unforgettable melodies and breathtaking landscapes come to life. Starring Julie Andrews, the musical about the Von Trapp family is widely recognized for its score, story, and lasting cultural impact, having touched audiences of all ages from across the globe.

To commemorate this milestone, fans of the movie – and avid travelers alike – can channel their inner Von Trapp by planning an alpine adventure to one of the following awe-inspiring destinations across Austria, Switzerland, and Italy:

Located in the charming town of Leogang, just an hour from Salzburg,  Forsthofgut Nature Hotel is the perfect place for travelers to climb every mountain. The property, set at the foot of the Asitz Mountain, offers a treasure trove of outdoor adventures that echo the film’s spirit. Families can hike through lush meadows and forests, just like Maria, or visit the on-site children's farm, deer park, and riding stables. 

Originally founded in 1617 as a farm and forestry business, Forsthofgut has since been transformed by the Schmuck family into one of the world’s most beautiful nature retreats, boasting 109 rooms and suites, an exclusive Alpine Hut, the award-winning waldSPA (forest spa) and brand-new waldSPA Health facility, three exquisite á la carte restaurants, the Botanist Bar and forest-themed wine cellar, the 54-acre Mauthof Farm, and more.

Nestled in the spectacular Graubunden mountains at an altitude of 5,900 feet sits Arosa, a picturesque traditional Swiss town straight out of a story book. With stunning views of the Alps, 140 miles of hiking, biking and ski trails, a lake for boating and swimming, and charming cottages all around, visitors feel like they've been whisked away to another world.

During a visit, travelers can stop by the Sennerei Maran dairy farm to see how local cheese, yogurt, and butter are made, or stop by the Arosa Bear Sanctuary to learn about and make a connection with the species. For accommodations, the Tschuggen Grand Hotel is a contemporary fairytale style venue set among the mountains, complete with the Tschuggen Express, a private cable car giving hotel guests exclusive access to the mountains, iconic 54,000 square foot Mario Botta-designed Tschuggen Bergoase Spa and four outstanding restaurants.

Italy’s largest lake, Lake Garda is also dotted with the peaks of the Garda Mountains, reminiscent of the Alps. During a visit, travelers can enjoy the Monte Luppia to Punta San Vigilio hike, offering sweeping views of the lake and winding through ancient rock formations etched with Bronze Age engravings.

The scenic trail leads to breathtaking viewpoints overlooking Punta San Vigilio and the Bay of Sirens, where history and nature converge in a spectacular display. Situated 600 feet above the lake, the spa hideaway Cape of Senses offers spectacular views and a relaxing retreat, encouraging guests to slow down and reconnect with their surroundings. In addition to hiking, travelers can enjoy scenic drives along the shoreline, Vespa journeys through the picturesque Gardesana, and a visit to Torri del Benaco's Castello Scaligero, dating back to the 14th century.