Take a break from the bustling city life this summer to visit the magical Hallstatt village in Austria. It’s time to check the village off the bucket list. Well, I dare say that it would not be a one-time experience, not if the tranquility and the unmatched beauty kept calling you back. Welcome to the fairytale village that inspired the movie Frozen—a little paradise for nature lovers. The 16th-century village of Hallstatt is a magnificent site to explore both in winter and summer.
Quick Info:
How do I go to Hallstatt from Vienna? If you don’t want to drive, taking the train from Vienna to Hallstatt is the best option. A one-way ticket from Vienna to Hallstatt might cost anywhere from 19 to 55 euros. Depending on the time you choose, the ride can take between 3.5 and 4.5 hours.
A Place For a Cool Head
It’s rare to find a tourist site that retains its serenity despite the daily influx of visitors. Hallstatt naturally provides a tranquil environment for relaxation. Although the landscape offers numerous outdoor activities like biking, hiking, and local festivals, the village remains therapeutic and refreshing. Perhaps because of the breathtaking views and enchanting atmosphere, time seems to stand still, allowing the visitors to enjoy and immerse themselves in the beauty and charm of the fairy grounds.
The Hallstätter See
The lake is the heart of Hallstatt, providing opportunities for leisurely boat rides, paddleboarding, and even diving. The lake’s pristine waters mirror the surrounding mountains, fostering a serene environment conducive to relaxation. From the lake, the scenery is breathtaking. After a train ride, which brings in most visitors, the ferry ride brings you into the village, giving you the first view of the rise of the mountains and the blend of colours—man-made and nature’s.
Dachstein Krippenstein
For the more adventurous, a trip to Dachstein Krippenstein is essential. The cable car ride up the mountain offers panoramic views of the Alps, and once at the top, visitors can explore ice caves, take guided hikes, or simply enjoy the breathtaking vistas from the 5fingers viewing platform, which juts out over a 400-metre drop.
Corpus Christi on the Lake
This religious ceremony takes place on the lake itself, with boats decorated with flowers carrying the congregation and clergy—a display of faith and tradition that dates back centuries. The summer brings a host of music and dance festivals to the region. Traditional Austrian folk music and dance performances provide visitors with a lively and engaging cultural experience. The local brass bands and yodelling groups add a charming touch to the festive atmosphere.
Sustainable Tourism
Leave the hustling and bustling behind in the cities, shall we? Hallstatt has taken impressive measures to ensure that tourism remains sustainable and respectful of the local environment and culture. The village is to be explored on foot or by bike. Stay up to date on the latest in fashion, arts, beauty, and lifestyle by following FAB L’Style Magazine.
Food, Yay!
It’s a huge and almost unforgiving tourist blunder to visit a place and not have a taste of their local cuisine. Getting a meal at one of the lakeside restaurants is a highlight. Fresh fish from the Hallstätter See, such as reinanke (whitefish), is a local specialty to be paired with a glass of Austrian white wine. There, you have your perfect Hallstatt summer dish. Don’t forget to try out traditional dishes like Wiener Schnitzel, Käsespätzle (cheese noodles), and Apfelstrudel. Make a last stop at the cafes and bakeries to get some delightful pastries and coffee, perfect for the road.
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