Set in central Europe, Austria conjures up images of the picturesque Central Eastern Alps dotted with glamourous Alpine ski resorts surrounded by pristine pistes and aquamarine lakes. However, the country’s breathtaking nature only tells a small part of the story. With residents like Mozart, Freud, and other legendary figures playing an important role in developing the world we know today, the country is also blessed with a rich heritage. From the quaint, cobbled streets of timeless Innsbruck with its famous Golden Roof, to the enthralling Vienna Staatsoper, one of the most famous opera and ballet venues in the world, the historical choices are as diverse as they are seductive. The longstanding 'Kaffeehaus kultur' and the country’s delectable strudels, schnitzels and beer are enough reason to visit, alone. Chic, world-class cities are packed with spectacular modern and contemporary art galleries and a multitude of entertainment opportunities.
Resting in the alluring Zillertal Valley in Austria’s westernmost province of Tyrol, Mayrhofen is a pristine Alpine town and one of the country’s premier ski resort destinations. While it is a lovely place to visit in the summer - when hiking trails and birdlife are spectacular- Mayrhofen comes alive when it snows, attracting thousands of visitors to the powdery slopes of the rugged Zillertal Valley. Catering for families as well as serious winter sports enthusiasts, Mayrhofen boasts two ski lifts (servicing the Ahorn and Penken peaks), as well as downward runs offering experiences ranging from serene to heart-racing. The superior apres-ski (social activities that follow after a day’s skiing) offered at Mayrhofen are extraordinary and are another reason for its enduring popularity.
Famed for being the world’s largest skiing valley, the picturesque Ziller Valley, also referred to as the Zillertal, is set in the wondrous state of Tyrol in Austria. Idyllic all year round, this beautifully vast region boasts lush forested mountains and expansive green meadows that quickly turn to majestic snow-capped peaks and spaces of glistening white snow in the wintertime. Travellers can enjoy a quintessential Austrian experience when visiting one their world-renowned ski resorts and charming little villages, of which the beautiful Mayrhofen is the most sizeable; or embarking on a journey along the hundreds of kilometres of pristine snow runs and scenic trails. From hiking, skiing, snowboarding the breathtakingly beautiful mountains to kayaking down the mighty Ziller River - the thrilling outdoor adventures on offer are endless.
Innsbruck, the capital of the Tyrol state in Austria, lies within the Alps. With its relatively mild Alpine climate and outdoor sports facilities impressive enough to thrill even the most adventurous extreme-sports enthusiast, this spectacular historic city is the perfect springboard for making the leap between the urban and the outdoors. See Emperor Maximilian’s glorious fifteenth-century influences in the Gothic Hofkerche Cathedral, the city’s landmark Goldenes Dachl (golden roof), and the remarkable Gothic and Baroque buildings strewn along the winding cobbled streets of its charming historic Altstadt (Old Town). Every year thousands of tourists are drawn to this delightful picture-perfect city presided over by the imposing jagged peaks of the Nordkette mountain range and the majestic Habsburg palace.
Wattens is a beautiful and fascinating town located in Tyrol, neighbouring the historic town of Hall. This is the birthplace of Swarovski crystals, and is home to an extraordinary collection at Swarovski Crystal Worlds. The Chamber of Wonder is an awe-inspiring gallery of art created using crystal, featuring an incredible variety of exhibits by famous contemporary artists. It lies within the ‘mouth’ of ‘The Giant’, a breathtaking figure built into the hill and pouring a waterfall into a vast, reflective pool. The pristine landscaped gardens and enthralling nearby mountains complete a spellbinding scene, and nature lovers have plenty of excellent hiking and cycling trails to explore nearby (most significantly, the Inn Cycleway). Travellers visiting in summer should make sure to attend the vibrant Myths and Legends Festival.
Tegernsee is a photogenic spa town set on the banks of a namesake Lake in the Miesbach district of Bavaria, less than an hour by train from Munich. History, nature and leisure present themselves here in an enticing package, among story-book scenes of towering snowy mountains, shimmering lake waters and richly wooded green banks. The grand Monastery, how functioning as a school, has its origins in the eighth century, and still intrigues with its glorious interiors. History-lovers will also enjoy the Olaf Gulbransson Museum, filled with his satirical works of art (the town was a hub for artists and literary figures for centuries). Outdoor enthusiasts will delight in the unique experiences on offer here, including guided tours to track Golden Eagles, forest bathing, and more.
It has been argued that Lake Tegernsee, surrounded by Bavarian Alps and dense forests near Munich, is the cleanest and most beautiful lake in Germany. Spectacular sparkling waters, spreading more than six kilometres in length and 1.5 kilometres across are watched over by jaw-dropping snow-laden mountains, glorious green banks and mysterious ancient structures - the Benedictine Monastery and Tegernsee Abbey. Visitors can look forward to sunbathing and swimming at some lovely beaches, magnificent hiking routes, paragliding, or simply soaking in the views from one of the jetties or waterfront cafes. The Wallbergbahn gondola ride provides a trip up to a mountaintop restaurant. Nearby, the longest toboggan ride can be found at Wallberg.
Located in Austria’s Pinzgau region, within the Zell am See District, Krimml is famous for its mesmerising waterfall. The enormous attraction is the highest in Europe, and is magnificent in all its forms, at any time of year. The breathtaking surroundings of rich green forests, lush pastoral scenes, and glimmering streams add to the experience and provide endless hiking and adventure opportunities. Learn more about the power of water or simply splash about at the fascinating and fun-filled Wonder World of Water Museum.
