an independent travel guide about Austria
Time travel a few hundred years back to the Middle age when the entire village was full of people dressed in historical costumes, and armed knights roamed the streets mingling with flame breathers. The Middle Ages come alive at what has become the legendary folk festival in Mauterndorf, an hour’s drive from Salzburg. Every July […]
Austria has many impressive castles that are open to the public. We love visiting castles that have retained at least some originality and that have period furniture and decorations. The best-preserved castles can offer a small insight into what life was like at the castle throughout history. Many of the excursions are very well done […]
A study by IMAS showed that 9 out of 10 Austrians think protecting and keeping Austrian traditions alive is vital. Many traditions are connected to the catholic church, others are part of rural folklore, and some celebrate the end of harvest time. Nonetheless, most of these festivities are lively, colourful, and folksy, with a high […]
The castle in Mauterndorf is not to be overlooked as it is located on a mountain cliff at the edge of the village. The site has been fortified since 326 A.D., guarding the Roman trade route crossing the Tauern mountain pass. However, the castle itself is first mentioned in written records from 1253. The castle […]
Austria’s architecture and culture have benefitted from the country’s location in the middle of Europe. As well as developing a unique style, Austria has also drawn inspiration from neighbouring countries. Moreover, many of the country’s towns have grown along important trade routes and have been crucial for Austria’s nation-building. Consequently, you will still find many […]
These amazing constructions are not only historical and architectural gems but also offer visitors a variety of activities. Whether in the state, private, clerical or company ownership, the castles, palaces and monasteries are often open to the public. A few castles and palaces are still private homes and, therefore, completely off-limits to the public. In […]
I am obsessed with stunning views. I love hiking in Austria. Add to that magnificent nature and crisp fresh air – you have the recipe for a brilliant day in the Austrian Alps. The Speierck (2411 m / 7919 ft) in the holiday region Lungau offers an easy to medium-level half-day hike. Cable Car to […]
I have visited numerous places along the River Mur, which flows 348 kilometres through Austria, before continuing through Slovenia and Croatia. This is one of the main rivers in the state of Styria and it flows through its state capital and Austria’s second-largest city Graz. Hence, it was time to see where it all starts and find […]
The Obertauern is located in the southeast of the state of Salzburg in the middle of the Radstadt Tauern Mountains at altitudes between 1630 and 2526 meters above sea level. This is one of the snow richest regions in Austria but has a very well-developed tourist infrastructure. The Obertauern is snow-safe, family-friendly and offers 26 […]