OVERVIEW
CBRC Austria Advent Retreat Salzburg | Bad Gastein | Schladming
December 8 – 16, 2027 (9 Days, 8 Nights)
Imagine wandering through centuries-old Christmas markets illuminated by thousands of
twinkling lights. Snow-covered villages tucked beneath towering Alpine peaks. The aroma of
roasted chestnuts and mulled wine filling the air while church bells echo through cobblestone
streets.
Join CBRC Health & Fitness for an unforgettable Austrian Advent experience where holiday
traditions, outdoor activity, and breathtaking mountain scenery come together. Whether you’re
skiing world-class slopes, snowshoeing through peaceful forests, relaxing in natural thermal
spas, or discovering charming Christmas markets, this retreat offers the perfect balance of
adventure and relaxation.
With thoughtfully planned logistics, beautiful hotels, and the support of experienced CBRC
retreat leaders, all you have to do is enjoy the magic of Austria during one of the most
enchanting times of the year.
Retreat Highlights
• Experience several of Austria’s hidden gem Christmas markets
• Stay in three unique Austrian destinations
•Choose your Winter Experience: Alpine ski, Nordic ski, or a Winter Wellness Experience
• Ride scenic gondolas into the Austrian Alps
• Walk across the famous Stubnerkogel Suspension Bridge and explore the Felsenweg Rock Trail
• Enjoy a traditional Austrian Coffee & Cake experience overlooking Lake Wörthersee.
• Learn the art of traditional Austrian strudel baking with the hotel’s pastry chef.
• Sample exceptional regional wines during a guided Austrian wine tasting.
• Dine at a traditional Salzburg brewery, savoring authentic Austrian cuisine.
• Recharge with relaxing spa experiences in Austria’s beautiful alpine settings.
Choose Your Winter Experience
One of the things that makes this retreat unique is its flexibility. Every guest chooses the winter
experience that best matches their interests, making this the perfect getaway for couples, friends,
and solo travelers alike.
Whether you love carving fresh tracks through the Alps, prefer the peaceful pace of Nordic
skiing, or dream of relaxing in thermal spas while exploring Austria’s charming Christmas
markets, there’s an experience designed just for you.
The best part? Everyone shares the same incredible journey. You’ll stay in the same beautiful
hotels, enjoy meals together, explore Christmas markets as a group, and create unforgettable
memories—while spending your days doing what you enjoy most.
Itinerary
Day 1 – Wednesday, December 8th
Welcome to Austria
Meet the group in Salzburg before transferring to beautiful Bad Gastein, one of Austria’s most
famous alpine spa towns. After settling into the historic Hotel Salzburger Hof, we’ll enjoy our
first evening together with a welcome dinner.
Meals: Dinner
Day 2 – Thursday, December 9th
Today begins your chosen Winter Experience in Bad Gastein. Whether skiing the slopes, exploring the Nordic trails, or enjoying a more leisurely day of wellness and winter activities, experience the Austrian Alps your way.
Later in the day, we’ll gather with the hotel’s pastry chef for a hands-on Austrian strudel baking experience. Learn the secrets behind one of Austria’s most beloved desserts before enjoying your
freshly baked creation together.
Day 3 – Friday, December 10th
Above the Alps
Today we’ll experience one of the highlights of our retreat as we ride the gondola to the summit of Stubnerkogel. Walk across the famous Suspension Bridge, explore the breathtaking Felsenweg
Rock Trail, enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding Alps, and share a memorable mountaintop lunch together.
The remainder of the afternoon is yours to continue exploring Bad Gastein or simply relax and enjoy the hotel’s amenities.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4 – Saturday, December 11th
Christmas Traditions in Velden
Travel to the picturesque lakeside town of Velden, where we’ll experience one of Austria’s charming Christmas markets. Stroll through festive market stalls, browse handcrafted gifts, and
enjoy the sights, sounds, and flavors of the holiday season. We’ll also enjoy a traditional Austrian Coffee & Cake experience at the beautiful Falkensteiner Schlosshotel Velden before returning to Bad Gastein.
Meals: Breakfast, Coffee & Cake, Dinner
Day 5 – Sunday, December 12th
From Bad Gastein to Schladming
make Austria one of Europe’s premier winter destinations. After checking into Sporthotel Royer, we’ll spend the afternoon and evening exploring Schladming’s Christmas Market. Browse festive market stalls, discover handcrafted gifts, sample local holiday treats, and soak in the magical atmosphere of this traditional alpine town.
Day 6 – Monday, December 13th
Choose Your Winter Experience, today is yours to experience Schladming your way.
• Alpine Ski Package – Enjoy a full day of skiing in the Schladming-Dachstein region, home to some of Austria’s most celebrated slopes and breathtaking alpine scenery.
• Nordic Ski Package – Travel to the Nordic Centre at Ramsau am Dachstein, where beautifully groomed trails wind through spectacular mountain landscapes.
• Winter Wellness Package – Spend the day at your own pace with opportunities to relax at the hotel spa, explore Schladming, or enjoy seasonal winter activities.
charming alpine town.
DAY 7 – Tuesday, December 14th
One Last Day in the Alps
Enjoy one final day to experience the best of Schladming. Whether you choose to carve a few more turns on the slopes, glide through the peaceful Nordic trails, or enjoy a relaxing day
exploring the town or indulging in a spa treatment, today is yours to make the most of Austria’s breathtaking winter landscape.
This evening, we’ll enjoy a guided tasting featuring a selection of Austrian wines, professionally presented by the hotel’s in-house sommelier. Afterwards, we will gather for dinner at Steirer Stüberl, enjoying traditional Austrian cuisine and sharing stories and memories from our winter adventure.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 8 – Wednesday, December 15th
Return to Salzburg
Conclude your retreat in the birthplace of Mozart. Explore one of Europe’s most celebrated Christmas markets before gathering for a memorable dinner at a traditional Salzburg brewery.
Depart with unforgettable memories of Austria at Christmastime.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 9 – Thursday, December 16th
Departure Day – After breakfast, group transfer to Salzburg for flights home or your next
adventure.
Meals: Breakfast
Three Ways to Experience Austria
Alpine Ski Package
Designed for downhill skiers, this package includes two-day lift tickets in both Bad Gastein and Schladming, along with complete ski equipment rentals, allowing you to travel without the
hassle of bringing your own gear. After a day on the slopes, unwind with one included spa treatment at Hotel Salzburger Hof and one spa treatment at Sporthotel Royer.
Nordic Ski Package
Experience Austria’s spectacular winter landscapes on beautifully groomed cross-country ski trails in both Bad Gastein and Ramsau am Dachstein. This package includes Nordic ski
equipment rentals, transportation to the Nordic Centre, and one spa treatment at Hotel Salzburger Hof and one spa treatment at Sporthotel Royer—the perfect way to relax after a day on the trails.
Winter Wellness Package
Designed for guests who want to embrace the beauty of an Austrian winter at a slower pace, this package combines relaxation with unforgettable alpine experiences. Enjoy scenic winter walks,
snowshoe and toboggan rentals, time to explore Austria’s charming villages and Christmas markets, and multiple spa treatments at both Hotel Salzburger Hof and Sporthotel Royer. It’s
the perfect way to experience the magic of Austria while returning home refreshed and recharged.
Everyone still travels together, shares meals, visits Christmas markets, and enjoys the same unforgettable experience.
Pricing Information
CBRC Members
-$500 non-refundable deposit secures your spot
-CBRC Members: $4,299 ($4,699 after June 8, 2027)
CBRC Guests
-$500 non-refundable deposit secures your spot.
-Guests: $4,699 ($5.099 after June 8, 2027)
•Rates are based on double occupancy (single occupancy available for an additional fee).
• Payment plans available upon request.
To travel to Austria, it is essential to possess a valid passport and Visa. CBRC shall not be held responsible in the event that travelers fail to obtain or possess the necessary international travel documentations.
What’s Included
• 8 nights of accommodations (double occupancy)
• 4 nights at Hotel Salzburger Hof, Bad Gastein
• 3 nights at Sporthotel Royer, Schladming
• 1 night at arte Hotel Salzburg, Salzburg
• Transportation throughout the retreat as outlined in the itinerary
• Your choice of one activity package:
• Alpine Ski Package
• Nordic Ski Package
• Winter Wellness Package
• Equipment rentals included with your selected Winter Experience
• Activities and excursions outlined in the itinerary
• Taxes and fees
Not Included
- Airfare to/from Salzburg
- Lunches, not previously mentioned, and beverages (coffee/tea are included with meals)
- Ski shipment services (ShipSkis coordination available at an additional fee)
- Travel insurance (required)
- Gratuities for guides, drivers, hotel staff
- Pre-and post-trip accommodations and associated expenses
- Personal expenses
FAQ
Q: Do I have to ski?
A: Not at all. This retreat was intentionally designed for both skiers and non-skiers. Whether your perfect day includes skiing, snowshoeing, relaxing in thermal spas, shopping Christmas markets, or simply enjoying mountain cafés, you’ll have incredible options throughout the trip.
Q: Why Austria in December?
A: Austria truly comes alive during Advent. Historic town squares transform into festive Christmas markets filled with handcrafted gifts, sparkling lights, traditional music, and seasonal treats. Mountain villages become winter wonderlands, while snow-covered peaks provide the perfect backdrop for skiing, winter hiking, and unforgettable alpine experiences. From the elegant streets of Salzburg to the charming villages of Bad Gastein and Schladming, every stop offers its own unique holiday atmosphere. Whether you’re shopping for handcrafted ornaments, sipping warm Glühwein, enjoying Austrian pastries in a historic café, or watching fresh snow fall across the Alps, this is Christmas as you’ve always imagined it.
Q: Do I need to bring my own ski equipment?
A: No! Rental ski equipment is included with the Alpine Ski and Nordic Ski Packages, making it easy to travel without the hassle of checking oversized luggage. If you prefer skiing on your own equipment, you’re welcome to bring it. CBRC has partnered with ShipSkis, allowing you to ship your gear directly to Austria at a discounted rate. It’s a convenient option for those who want the familiarity of their own skis and boots without the stress of traveling with them through the airport.
Q: What are your recommendations for airfare and/or extending my trip?
A: If you are looking for help with airfare or extending your trip, we recommend contacting Preferred Travel Agent Heather at (509) 438-2370 or heather@dkadventures.com!
Q: How do I secure my spot?
A: Email Heather (heatherkaramanos@my-cbrc.com) or Melissa (melissafields@my-cbrc.com) to reserve your space. A $500 non-refundable deposit is required. If you would like more information on the payment plan, or any other questions about this retreat, please let us know.
Payment Plan for registrations received by June 8, 2027:
$500 deposit upon registration
June 8, 2027 – $1,900 for members, $2,100 for guests
September 9, 2027 – $1,899 for members, $2,099 for guests