Hallstatt

Austria is a land-locked, central European nation. It is definitely a sports capital, offering skiing and hiking for all ages and abilities.

Vienna is the largest and most important city in Austria and certainly a perfect place to start your vacation. Besides the spectacular imperial palace of Schönbrunn, a must-see is St. Stephan's Cathedral. Take an elevator up to the visiting platform on the north tower, home to a massive bell, or head down to the church's catacombs and treasury. This city is also home to the world famous Vienna State Opera, offering unforgettable musical performances.

You might also hear music of the Viennese composer Johann Strauss playing in the numerous summer beer gardens. Take a trip to the nearby Vienna Woods and test the "new wine"at a Heuriger tavern. Everyone loves the chocolate cake, or Sachertorte, originally served at the Sacher Hotel, but now widely available at cafes throughout the country. Try it with coffee - Vienna was the first European city to experience coffee, brought over from Turkey and they certainly know how to brew it!

Not to be missed is the Spanish Riding School. Here the majestic white Lipizzaner horses are trained to "dance" to the music of Mozart.  After a summer running in the Alps, they spend their winters learning the aristocratic equestrian ballet steps.

The beautiful city of Salzburg is a must for every visitor to Austria. Most of us have had many glimpses of the town and area in the classic movie, The Sound of Music.   Wander through the old part and discover the Mozarthaus, where Mozart was born in 1757. Taste the Mozartkugeln:chocolate covered marzipan and pistachio balls. Salzburg is an UNESCO World Heritage Site, surrounded by beauty in ever direction. The imposing Hohensalzburg Castle can be reached in minutes with a funicular from below and offer travellers breathtaking views.

St. Wolfgang, on Wolfgang Lake, is a charming town that offers tourists a cog railway up into the Alps. The Castle of Hochosterwitz is a most impressive medieval castle.

The city of Hallstatt clings to the side of a mountain, above a deep blue lake where one can rent boats. Because of its centuries of salt mining, Hallstatt was once wealthy and able to fill the city with important Baroque architecture.  Many prehistoric graves have been found here. The cemetery is overcrowded and skeletons have been dug up and displayed in the spooky charnel house.

River cruises on the beautiful blue Danube River offer guided tours to the spectacular Melk Benedictine Abbey. Built in the 11th century, it straddles a rocky bluff above the river and is laid out around seven courtyards. Please do not miss the library, one of the richest and most important in Europe. 

The old city of Innsbruck is surrounded by snowy alpine peaks. See the Golden Roof facing the town square, 2,657 gilded copper tiles laid in1496 for the Holy Roman Emperor. 

Anywhere you go in Austria, you can sample their wonderful beers and wines. Strudels, cakes and pastries satisfy all sweet-toothed visitors. Whether you decide to spend your entire vacation in Austria or are passing through and just want to visit for a few days, I am your go to expert!