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Salzkammergut and Upper Austria Alps: A Majestic Alpine Escape

Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich history of the Salzkammergut and Upper Austria Alps, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

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The Salzkammergut and Upper Austria Alps offer a stunning landscape of towering limestone rocks, verdant valleys, picturesque lakes, and extensive cave systems. This area, straddling Upper Austria, Styria, and Salzburg, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking cultural immersion in historic towns.

A brief summary to Salzkammergut and Upper Austria Alps

  • Hallstatt, AT

Local tips

  • Explore Hallstatt early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds and experience the town's serene beauty.
  • Take advantage of the numerous hiking trails to discover hidden lakes, panoramic viewpoints, and charming mountain huts.
  • Consider purchasing the Salzkammergut Card for discounts on attractions, activities, and transportation.
  • Visit the Dachstein Ice Cave and Mammut Cave for a unique underground experience.
  • Enjoy a boat tour on one of the many lakes to admire the stunning alpine scenery from a different perspective.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Salzburg, take bus 150 towards Bad Ischl. This bus passes by Fuschlsee (approx. 40 min), Strobl (approx. 1 hour), and Wolfgangsee (approx. 1:30-1:40 hours, change in Strobl to bus 546). Alternatively, take a train from Salzburg to Hallstatt, which includes a short ferry ride across the lake to reach the village. A Freizeit-Ticket OÖ is valid throughout Upper Austria and the Salzkammergut region for €24.90 per day. A single bus fare from Salzburg to St. Gilgen (Wolfgangsee) is approximately €10-15.

  • Driving

    If driving from Vienna to Hallstatt, take the A1 motorway. Be aware that cars are prohibited in Hallstatt, so you will need to park in one of the parking lots outside the town. Parking fees vary but expect to pay around €10-15 per day. From Salzburg, take the A1 towards Linz, then change to the Salzkammergut Bundesstrasse (B158) towards Bad Ischl and Hallstatt. Be aware of possible tolls on certain roads; however, there are no unavoidable tolls on the immediate final approach to Hallstatt.

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Discover more about Salzkammergut and Upper Austria Alps

The Salzkammergut and Upper Austria Alps present a dramatic landscape shaped over millions of years. Part of the Northern Limestone Alps, the region boasts towering peaks, including Hoher Dachstein, the range's highest point at 2,955 m (9,826 ft). The area is characterized by its numerous lakes, such as Wolfgangsee, Hallstättersee, and Traunsee, remnants of glacial activity. Historically, the Salzkammergut region has been inhabited for thousands of years. Early Celts mined salt here as far back as the 8th to 5th centuries BC, establishing the Hallstatt culture. Salt mining continued to be a major industry, with the Habsburgs later taking control of the region's salt mines. The name Salzkammergut translates to "Estate of the Salt Chamber," reflecting the area's historical connection to salt production. Today, the Salzkammergut and Upper Austria Alps offer a blend of natural beauty and cultural attractions. Visitors can explore the historic towns of Hallstatt, Bad Ischl, and St. Wolfgang, each with its unique charm and history. Outdoor activities abound, including hiking, climbing, via ferrata routes, and cave tours. In winter, the region transforms into a ski destination, with resorts like Dachstein West offering slopes for all skill levels. The area is easily accessible by car and public transport, making it a popular destination for both domestic and international travelers.

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