Austria. Media News. Hochkönig, Innsbruck, Carinthia, Graz, Salzburg

  

Dear friend of Austria,                                                     

This summer, immerse yourself in the Austrian sense of life, the Lebensgefühl [ˈleːbənsɡəˈfyːl], where warm hospitality and a passion for the country create unforgettable experiences. Join us through these itineraries and top recommendations to explore some of our favorite places and activities that might not be on your bucket list yet. 

I would be amiss if I did not mention that I am actually sitting on a comfortable ÖBB / Austrian Railways train, traveling west from my hometown Linz via Salzburg and Innsbruck all the way to St. Anton am Arlberg while I am typing this newsletter taking in the gorgeous countryside as the sun is setting. You should try it, it is pretty magical! 

Warmly,
Sigrid Pichler

Manager of Public Relations
Austria Tourism New York City

sigrid.pichler@austria.info​
www.austria.info

Nestled in the heart of the Austrian Alps, the Hochkönig region offers more than just picturesque views – it’s the perfect place for adventure lovers! Whether you are indulging in winter sports in the winter or hiking in the summer, the mountains will keep you coming back for more. This is the locals-approved itinerary for your ultimate travel experience!

The region takes its name from the highest peak in the area, the Hochkönig mountain, which fittingly translates to "High King." Home to the charming villages of Maria Alm, Dienten, and Mühlbach, this year-round destination boasts stunning views, exceptional cuisine, and a wealth of outdoor activities.In winter, it forms part of Ski amadé, offering over 75 miles of slopes and the scenic Königstour ("King's tour") ski circuit. During the warmer months, hiking, biking, and family-friendly activities take centre stage. Highly recommended are the Königstour bike circuit, culinary experiences at various huts, including several huts specializing in vegetarian and vegan dishes (giving Alpine cuisine a modern and healthy twist), a nature playground and rope park as well as summer tobogganing. If you want to explore more of the region, Salzburg and the beautiful Zeller See (Lake) are just a day trip away!   

   

Carinthia is Austria's southernmost province boasting gorgeous lakes and mountains. It is situated on the southern slopes of the Alps and has a more mediterranean climate and flair than one would expect in Austria - alas, it borders Italy and Slovenia, and climate, culture, and cuisine are very border-fluid, shall we say. Carinthia is also proud to be the world’s first certified Slow Food travel destination. Slow Food is the world's largest movement for conscious eating culture and sustainable food production and Carinthia takes you back to the very beginning of the movement.

You will also find great driving routes in Carinthia: whether it's the Grossglockner High Alpine Road, Nockalm Road, or Villach Alpine Road, each journey offers breathtaking landscapes and an unforgettable feeling of being closer to the sky with every twist and turn. Highlights are the stunning views of Austria's highest mountain, the Grossglockner (3,798 m / 12,361 ft) and explorations of the picture perfect idyllic village of Heiligenblut am Grossglockner.

   

Not completely unknown but always worth another visit and more explorations is Innsbruck. For starters, did you know that during the 15th century, Innsbruck served as the official seat of the Habsburg Empire? During that time, it became an important nexus of European power. It is also home to the Grassmayr Bell Foundry Austria’s oldest family business (since 1599), where you can watch artisans craft massive bells (each weighing around 10 tons) and learn about their global success.

This itinerary takes you to Innsbruck's most celebrated historical sights and natural treasures. Personal favorites are the Perspectives Trail providing visitors with different perspectives on the landscape through targeted movements and stimulating social interaction. Beautifully integrated into the landscape, the individual elements, in conjunction with quotes from the Austrian philosopher Ludwig Wittgenstein, create space to view and admire the landscape from different perspectives. Back in the Old Town, let Die Wildnerin (a female poacher!) take you on an exquisite culinary journey through traditional Austrian dishes with a modern twist and daily updated menus. 

    

Feel the love for great food in Graz! A city rich in culinary experiences, Graz is a haven for food lovers. From fresh regional ingredients to the traditional Styrian Pumpkin Seed Oil, every bite is a taste of Graz's unique culture. Stroll through its medieval cobblestoned streets (don't miss Sporgasse!), soak up the vibrant atmosphere, and enjoy its growing gastronomic scene. Graz is not just a feast for the stomach but for the soul! 

History buffs will also delight in Graz. Home to the world’s largest historical armory, housing around 32,000 objects, the collection remains in its original 17th-century mansion in the heart of the Old Town. Atop Schlossberg (castle mountain) you will not only find the great aiola upstairs restaurant with an incredible view of the Old Town but also the landmark 90 ft (28 m) Uhrturm, the clock tower that once stood as part of a vast castle on Schlossberg, destroyed by Napoleon’s troops. Just a 5-minute walk away is another impressive reminder of Graz’s past: the old bastion, where you can get close to historical cannons and enjoy more views across the River Mur and towards the trendy Lend district with more restaurants and shops to explore. 

     

Ok, I hear you - Salzburg is hardly a secret nor an off-the-beaten path destination, but let's have a look beyond its claim to fame as the birthplace of Mozart and home to The Sound of Music, which marks its 60th anniversary this year (just in case you have not heard...)! So, instead of Mozart's Birthplace, on your next visit check out the Museum der Moderne on Mönchsberg, the art as well as the stunning views are rewarding (and M32 is a great place for a meal). Before you head up to Mönchsberg, stop at the Horse Pond, a beautifully decorated 17th-century water basin where the Prince Archbishop’s horses once bathed and were groomed! And here we thought dog spas are fancy...! If the opulence of the DomQuartier, former seat of the Prince Archbishops of Salzburg seems, well, a little too opulent, cross the river Salzach for a stroll through the charming and quiet historic Steingasse district, in medieval times part of one of the most vital European north-south trading routes!

Salzburg definitely has a reputation as a beer destination, but have you ever heard about Sporer Punsch? For over a hundred years Sporer has been a specialist shop for liqueurs and spirits and has also become a popular meeting place to enjoy a drink! 

... and if you must indulge in some Sound of Music, do it by bike with Fräulein Maria's Bicycle Tours!