Where could I possibly be talking about? Well this location is so magnificent, they created a knock off COPY in China where the locals subside for the remainder of their days. The thing is this little treasure is hidden between two major cities smack inside Europe and many people completely miss it because they don't know this even place exists! But not to worry, Aunty Alana is here to inform you of this dream destination so the next time you are planning a getaway to Europe you will be sure not to miss it.
Train journey ^
What and where is this place I speak of?
This alluring town nestles in Austria's mountainous Salzkammergut region. It is about a 2 hour train ride from the capital, Vienna, on your way towards the fascinating city of Salzburg. I would recommend catching this train as the journey alone will cause you to pick your jaw from the ground. From clear lakes, towering snowy mountains to tiny Austrian villages you'll completely fall head over heels. A photographers dream come true, nothing you've ever seen before...
HALLSTATT!
The train will drop you off on the opposite side of the lake from Hallstatt, which leads you to take the coolest little local transport boat to the other side. The boat runs roughly every hour and leads you infront of the main pathway by the church. This was one of my highlights when visiting here as the 360 landscapes of Hallstatt Lake whilst you sit on top of the clear glistening water is just something I can't explain.
Boat terminal ^
Arriving in Hallstatt..
You are now smack centre of the Village beside Lutheran church and free to lose yourself between the wandering paths of Hallstatt. There is nothing better than
starting your starting your journey off with a cold local brew so head to the lake side
and indulge yourself. Don't be afraid to ask the locals about their Hallstatt branded beer as they are extremely passionate about this good-tasting refreshing bevy.
There are also plenty of restaurants/cafes to choose from if you're feeling a little hungry. From the local fish to their basic Austrian pastries, you'll be sure to get a little taste of their exciting culture.
What I love most about Hallstatt's businesses is you're going to find that most of your purchases are locally hand made by the villagers themselves thus helping support this little community and not to mention making for a lovely little authentic souvenir. We spent at least half an hour in this soap shop falling in love and smelling all the handmade body products.
Experiencing the Landscapes..
Let's get down to business, the beautiful panoramic views is dead set the number one reason for your visit to Hallstatt. I would recommend making sure there is plenty of storage space on your iPhone as every corner you turn holds an even better landscape than the last. You will spend hours strolling beside the lake feeling overwhelmed by nature's beauty! My
biggest suggestion I can offer is to take your time and just soak it all up, you are wandering through one of the most beautiful places in the world so thoroughly relish every moment. I found myself stopping plenty of times along the walk to sit and savour the peaking snowing mountains that tower over the mammoth lake. I also fell in love with the charming village houses as you'll find that each house is uniquely coloured and shaped with ivy crawling high and complimenting the exterior. Another cool thing about Hallstatt's landscapes is that you can find plenty of levelled heights to view the village from. Hike up the long steep paths to the top of the mountains, take the cable car all the way up in the direction of the salt mines to find the viewing platform or just wander behind the village houses and find the hidden positions to witness the best visions of this smokey village.
Leaving this place was emotional and surreal.
I had just explored the most beautiful town that my eyes had ever come across! It feels like it was all a wondeful dream and I wish to return one day. The Culture, food, history and panoramic views are all the reasons why this small village residing between the alps sits at number one. If there is a destination that tops Hallstatt then I am yet to discover it :)
Do you know a location as beautiful as Hallstatt? I'd love to hear about it!
You can find out how to contact me through my website's contact page.
Thank you for reading :)
Until next time,
International Travel Pocket x
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