A Solo Cultural Retreat in Salzburg

Chasing Alpine Dreams

Today was all about embracing the grandeur of the Alps. I set out to conquer not one, but two natural wonders near Salzburg: the majestic Untersberg and the enchanting Eisriesenwelt ice caves. It was a day filled with breathtaking views, icy adventures, and a profound connection with nature's artistry.

My day began with a delightful breakfast at Paradoxon. It's a quirky little spot, and I was intrigued by the fusion of flavors they offered. Apparently, they are known for their brunch, but since I was there for breakfast, I decided to try it anyway. After my meal, I decided to stop by Christmas In Salzburg to see if there were any new Christmas ornaments that I could gift Sophie when I get back home. I know it's still May, but I love visiting Christmas-themed shops regardless of the time of year.


Experience the enchantment of the holiday season at Christmas in Salzburg, where festive spirit and unique gifts come together in a historic setting.

Then I headed towards my first destination: Untersberg. The drive itself was stunning, with rolling green hills and charming Austrian villages dotting the landscape. As I approached the mountain, its imposing presence filled the horizon, beckoning me to explore its heights. I learned that the Untersberg straddles the border between Austria and Germany, a fact that only added to its mystique. I was looking forward to riding the Untersbergbahn, but to my surprise, it was closed for maintenance. Disappointed, I decided to push on towards Werfen, where the Eisriesenwelt awaited.

The drive to Werfen was incredibly scenic, with the imposing Hohenwerfen Castle perched high on a hilltop. Though I didn’t have time to explore the castle today, I made a mental note to perhaps visit it on a future trip. Finally, I arrived at the base of the Eisriesenwelt, the world's largest ice caves. The sheer scale of the place was immediately apparent, and I could feel the excitement building as I prepared for my icy adventure.


Explore the breathtaking Eisriesenwelt, the world's largest ice cave, where stunning ice formations meet the majestic beauty of the Austrian Alps.

The mountains are calling and I must go. - John Muir

The ascent to the caves was an adventure in itself. A steep climb led to the cable car station, where I boarded a car that whisked me up the mountainside. The views from the cable car were simply spectacular, with the Salzach Valley stretching out beneath me like a patchwork quilt. Once at the top, there was another short walk to the cave entrance. The crisp mountain air was invigorating, and I could feel a sense of anticipation among my fellow travelers. I would definitely advise anyone else to wear sturdy shoes and warm clothing, as the temperature inside the cave is below freezing.

Entering the Eisriesenwelt was like stepping into another world. The ice formations were absolutely breathtaking, sculpted by nature into fantastical shapes and illuminated by the lamps we carried. Our guide explained how the caves were formed by the relentless action of water and ice over thousands of years. It was fascinating to learn about the geological processes that had created this subterranean wonderland. The sheer scale of the caves was awe-inspiring, and I felt a sense of wonder as I gazed at the icy sculptures that surrounded me. The tour involved climbing a significant number of stairs, but the reward was well worth the effort. The views from inside the cave were simply unforgettable.

After emerging from the Eisriesenwelt, I took a moment to soak in the panoramic views of the Alps. The fresh mountain air and the stunning scenery were the perfect antidote to the chill of the ice caves. I felt a profound sense of gratitude for the opportunity to witness such natural beauty. I then decided to treat myself to a late lunch at Restaurant Pfefferschiff. The drive to the restaurant was a bit longer, but it was worth it. The restaurant is located in a charming, old building, and the atmosphere was warm and inviting. I enjoyed a delicious meal of traditional Austrian cuisine, savoring the flavors of the region. It was the perfect way to refuel after a day of exploring. I thought of Andreas and how much he would have enjoyed the food here.


Experience exquisite fine dining at Restaurant Pfefferschiff in Hallwang near Salzburg, where seasonal flavors meet elegant ambiance.

As evening approached, I made my way back to Salzburg, reflecting on the day's adventures. I had planned to have dinner at Restaurant Brunnauer, and I was looking forward to experiencing their innovative cuisine. The restaurant had a trendy vibe, and I was intrigued by the menu, which featured local ingredients prepared with a modern twist. Although I was quite tired from my day, I was glad I decided to push through and eat here. The staff were friendly and courteous, and the food was delicious.


Experience authentic Austrian cuisine at Restaurant Brunnauer in Salzburg - where tradition meets modern culinary excellence.

Tomorrow, I plan to explore the picturesque towns of St. Gilgen and Fuschl. I’m particularly excited to see the lakes and the charming villages that dot the landscape. But for now, I’m content to relax and reflect on a day well spent, immersed in the natural beauty of Salzburg and its surroundings. I might even stop by Darwin's Cafe Bar for a nightcap before heading back to the hotel. It’s supposed to be a cozy spot to unwind after a long day.

This solo journey is turning out to be exactly what I needed – a chance to reconnect with nature, indulge my passions, and discover the hidden gems of this beautiful region. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings! I am also glad that I did not forget my travel guide, comfortable shoes, camera, and notebook for journaling. However, I regret not bringing my umbrella. I hope it doesn't rain tomorrow! I can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings!