On 31 May 2026, the Austrian Youth Hostel Association (ÖJHV) celebrates its 80th anniversary. What began in 1946 in the spirit of an open-minded youth and hiking movement has evolved into a modern network for affordable, sustainable and inclusive travel in Austria and beyond.
Vienna, June 2026
The Austrian Youth Hostel Association (ÖJHV) is celebrating its 80th anniversary. Since its foundation on 31 May 1946, the Association has stood for an idea that remains just as relevant today as it was eight decades ago: travel should create opportunities for encounter, foster community and remain accessible to as many people as possible.
What once emerged from a freedom-loving youth and hiking movement has developed into a modern non-profit organisation serving young people, school groups, families, backpackers, solo travellers and the young at heart. The core philosophy has remained unchanged: to welcome people from different countries, generations and social backgrounds and to create spaces where exchange, tolerance and shared experiences come naturally.
Over the decades, ÖJHV hostels have continuously evolved to meet changing guest expectations. Simple dormitories and traditional hostel structures have been transformed into modern youth hostels, youth and family hostels and partner accommodations featuring contemporary facilities, smaller shared rooms, family and private rooms, Wi-Fi, inviting communal spaces and tailored services for groups, schools, seminars and leisure travellers. Today, the Association operates 12 hostels of its own and cooperates with numerous affiliated hostels across Austria, offering around 3,000 beds nationwide.
“80 years of ÖJHV means 80 years of lived hospitality, community and responsibility. Our mission today is the same as it was in 1946 – only the expectations and possibilities have changed. We want to make travel affordable, safe, sustainable and accessible to everyone,” says Michael Raunig, Managing President of the Austrian Youth Hostel Association (ÖJHV).
Non-profit values, openness, inclusion, social responsibility and sustainability continue to shape the Association’s work. Youth hostels are far more than affordable accommodation – they are places of encounter, understanding, cultural exchange and appreciation for both people and nature.
As a member of Hostelling International, ÖJHV is part of a global network that provides reliable and affordable accommodation for travellers around the world. This enables the Association to combine strong regional roots in Austria with an international and outward-looking perspective.
Looking back over the past 80 years reveals how profoundly youth hostels have changed. Looking ahead shows something equally important: the original idea remains alive and relevant. Sustainability, digitalisation, quality assurance, accessibility, modern group travel services and international cooperation will continue to be key priorities in the years to come. ÖJHV remains committed to creating places where people can arrive with ease, build new friendships and experience Austria’s welcoming and hospitable spirit.
Under the anniversary motto “Yesterday. Today. Tomorrow.”, the Austrian Youth Hostel Association is celebrating not only its history, but above all the values that have defined youth hostels for eight decades: community, encounter and the joy of travel.
About the Austrian Youth Hostel Association (ÖJHV)
Founded in 1946, the Austrian Youth Hostel Association (ÖJHV) is dedicated to providing affordable, high-quality and non-profit travel opportunities throughout Austria. Through its own youth hostels, affiliated hostels and partner accommodations, the Association offers welcoming places to stay for young people, school groups, families, individual travellers and organised groups. As a member of Hostelling International, ÖJHV is part of a worldwide network promoting open-minded, inclusive and socially responsible travel.
Impressions:
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- 80 years OJHV – Velden Cap Wörth
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- St. Gilgen through the ages
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- Mondsee yesterday and today
