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Hallstätter See: A Jewel of the Salzkammergut

Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich history of Hallstätter See, an Austrian alpine gem nestled in the Salzkammergut region.

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Hallstätter See, or Lake Hallstatt, is a stunning alpine lake in Austria's Salzkammergut region, famed for its picturesque beauty and historical significance. Surrounded by majestic mountains and charming villages, the lake offers a serene escape and a variety of activities.

A brief summary to Hallstätter See

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Local tips

  • Take a boat tour on the lake for stunning views of Hallstatt village and the surrounding mountains.
  • Visit the Hallstatt Skywalk for panoramic views of the lake and the Dachstein Alps.
  • Explore the Hallstatt Salt Mine, the oldest salt mine in the world, for a unique underground experience.
  • Walk the trails around Hallstätter See to soak in the scenery and discover hidden spots.
  • Check the ferry schedule in advance if arriving by train, as the station is across the lake from Hallstatt.
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Getting There

  • Ferry

    If arriving by train, the Hallstatt train station is located across the lake from the village. A ferry connects the train station to the Hallstatt Markt (center). The ferry ride takes about 6 minutes and departs hourly. A one-way ticket costs €4.

  • Walking

    Hallstatt is a small, walkable village. From the ferry terminal in Hallstatt Markt, most attractions, hotels, and restaurants are within a 15-minute walk. Follow the signs to your destination. Note that the village center is mostly traffic-free.

  • Parking

    If arriving by car, be aware that Hallstatt has limited parking. Several parking lots (P1, P2, P3, P4) are located outside the village center. P1 is closest to the village and offers a shuttle service to hotels for overnight guests. Parking costs range from €5 for 1 hour to €18 for a day ticket. Parking lots can fill up quickly, especially during peak season, so arrive early.

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Discover more about Hallstätter See

Hallstätter See, cradled in the Salzkammergut region of Austria, is more than just a scenic lake; it's a historical landmark and a natural masterpiece. The lake's name comes from Hallstatt, a market town known for salt mining since prehistoric times. The area is part of the UNESCO World Heritage region of Hallstatt Dachstein Salzkammergut, recognized for its cultural and natural significance. For millennia, Hallstätter See has drawn people to its shores. Archaeological finds suggest human presence dating back 7,000 years. The lake was key for transporting salt. In 1311, Hallstatt reformed salt mining and became a market town. Salt pavers were responsible for packaging, transport, and sale of the salt, and developed into respected merchants. Today, Hallstätter See allures visitors with its crystal-clear waters and the dramatic alpine scenery. The lake is perfect for swimming, boating, and fishing. Traditional flat-bottomed boats, once used in the salt mining industry, offer a unique way to explore the lake. Hiking and cycling trails wind around the lake, providing stunning views of the water, the church clock tower, and Schloss Grub castle. Visitors can explore the charming village of Hallstatt, with its 16th-century Alpine houses. High above Hallstatt, the Skywalk "World Heritage View" provides panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Hallstatt's Salt Mine, one of the oldest in the world, offers tours that delve into the region's mining history.

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