A Solo Cultural Retreat in Salzburg

Splashing Through History and Song

Today was a delightful escape into the whimsical world of Salzburg's Hellbrunn. It was a day filled with unexpected surprises, charming discoveries, and a healthy dose of nostalgia. From trick fountains to exotic animals, every moment felt like stepping into a storybook.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Bärenwirt. The reviews online raved about their fried chicken, but I decided to go for something a little more traditional: a *Frittatensuppe* to start, followed by *Salzacherwürstel* with roasted potatoes and sauerkraut. It was the perfect fuel for a day of exploring. The restaurant was cozy and inviting, and I appreciated the English translations on the menu, even though I'm getting better at reading German! After breakfast, I set off towards Hellbrunn, eager to explore its famous water games.

Schloss Hellbrunn was built in the early 17th century by Prince-Archbishop Markus Sittikus as a summer residence, and it's clear he had a playful spirit. The trick fountains are the highlight, of course. Hidden sprinklers and water-powered figures lurk around every corner, ready to drench unsuspecting visitors. I quickly learned to watch my step, but even then, I got caught off guard a few times. It was all in good fun, though, and I couldn't help but laugh along with everyone else. The ingenuity of the waterworks is truly impressive; it’s amazing how Sittikus used the natural springs to create such elaborate and mischievous displays. I wandered through the various grottoes, each with its own unique charm. The Birdcall Grotto, with its hidden mechanism that replicates bird sounds, was particularly enchanting.


Explore the whimsical wonders of Schloss Hellbrunn, a baroque palace in Salzburg with stunning gardens and enchanting trick fountains.

Life is like a garden; perfect moments can be had, but not preserved, except in memory.

After drying off (somewhat), I made my way to the Salzburg Zoo Hellbrunn, located right next to the palace grounds. I was pleasantly surprised by the zoo’s commitment to conservation. Though relatively small, it participates in several national and international conservation efforts, including programs to improve the genetic diversity of Alpine ibex and conserve white rhinoceroses. I spent a good amount of time watching the white rhinos, majestic creatures grazing against the backdrop of the Alps. The zoo also has a research station in Mongolia for the reintroduction of Przewalski's horses, which I found particularly fascinating. It's heartening to see a zoo so dedicated to preserving endangered species.


Experience the beauty of wildlife at Salzburg Zoo Hellbrunn, a stunning animal park perfect for families and nature lovers alike.

The zoo is beautifully landscaped, with enclosures designed to mimic the animals’ natural habitats. I was especially impressed by the free-flying griffon vultures. They have a colony in the surrounding mountains and often soar overhead, adding a touch of wilderness to the zoo experience. It was a lovely experience, and I was happy to see families enjoying the animals and learning about conservation. I remember taking Sophie to the zoo in Bonn when she was little. She was always so excited to see the animals, especially the monkeys. Those were precious moments, and I cherish those memories.

Next on the agenda was the Sound of Music Pavilion. As someone who grew up watching the movie, I couldn't miss the chance to see it in person. The pavilion was originally located at Leopoldskron Palace but was moved to Hellbrunn to accommodate the growing number of tourists. It's a simple structure, but it holds so much history and romance. I could almost hear Liesl and Franz singing Sixteen Going on Seventeen as I stood inside. Although most Austrians have never seen the Sound of Music, the movie has enchanted millions and turned Salzburg into a dream destination for film fans.


Experience the magic of the Sound of Music Pavilion in Salzburg, where cinematic history meets breathtaking natural beauty in a serene garden setting.

For lunch, I headed to Restaurant Mirabell, located in the Sheraton Grand Salzburg. The restaurant boasts a fusion of traditional Austrian cuisine with an international twist. I opted for the traditional *Wiener Schnitzel* with parsley potatoes and cranberries. It was perfectly crispy and tender, and the cranberries added a nice touch of sweetness. The restaurant itself was elegant, and I enjoyed the view of the Mirabell Gardens while I ate. It was a bit of a splurge, but worth it for the ambiance and delicious food.


Experience the essence of Austrian cuisine at Restaurant Mirabell in Salzburg – where tradition meets modern elegance.

In the late afternoon, as the sun began to dip lower in the sky, I decided to treat myself to a drink at Fridrich Bar. Tucked away in Steingasse, this bar is known for its exquisite wines and delicious cocktails. I opted for an Austrian wine, a Grüner Veltliner, and enjoyed it in the bar's cozy atmosphere. The owner, Eduard Dormayr, was very welcoming, and I chatted with him about the history of the bar and his passion for wine. It was the perfect way to wind down after a busy day of sightseeing.


Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Fridrich Bar in Salzburg, where exquisite cocktails and a cozy ambiance await every visitor.

For dinner, I ventured to Goldene Kugel, a historic restaurant in Salzburg's Old Town. Dating back to 1327, this place was once Salzburg's second-largest brewery. I decided to try the pork *wienerschnitzel*, a local favorite, along with a glass of Augustiner beer. The schnitzel was perfectly cooked, and the beer was crisp and refreshing. The restaurant had a beautiful old German-style space, and I enjoyed soaking in the atmosphere. It was quite busy, but the service was friendly and efficient. The Bankhammer family have revived the good old inn tradition in the Goldene Kugel with a tasteful Bavarian brewing culture and solid Salzburg foods.


Indulge in authentic Austrian cuisine and refreshing local brews at Goldene Kugel, Salzburg's beloved restaurant and beer hall.

As the day drew to a close, I reflected on all the wonderful things I had experienced. Salzburg is truly a magical city, and Hellbrunn is one of its hidden gems. From the playful trick fountains to the exotic animals and the nostalgic Sound of Music Pavilion, there was something for everyone. I am so glad I took the time to explore this charming corner of Austria.

Tomorrow, I plan to visit St. Peter's Abbey and the Petersfriedhof, followed by the Residenzgalerie Salzburg. I'm looking forward to another day of cultural immersion and historical exploration. I am also planning to visit Wolford Boutique Salzburg to perhaps buy a gift for Sophie.

Before heading back to the hotel, I decided to take a leisurely walk along the Salzach River. The city was quiet and peaceful, and the stars were shining brightly overhead. I felt grateful for the opportunity to travel and experience new cultures. It's moments like these that make life so rich and rewarding. I thought of Andreas and Sophie back home in Bonn. I missed them dearly, but I knew they were cheering me on from afar. This solo trip has been a wonderful experience, but I can't wait to see them again and share all my adventures.

Goodnight from Salzburg!