If you find yourself in Bratislava, Slovakia, and are looking for a charming getaway, a trip to Hallstatt, Austria should be at the top of your list. Nestled amidst the breathtaking Austrian Alps, Hallstatt is a postcard-perfect village that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and enchanting architecture. Join me on a picturesque journey from Bratislava to Hallstatt and discover why this hidden gem is worth the visit.
The Journey Begins: Bratislava to Hallstatt
To kick off your adventure, start by taking a train from Bratislava to Vienna, Austria. The journey takes approximately one hour and offers scenic views of the picturesque Slovakian and Austrian countryside. Once you arrive in Vienna, head to the Hauptbahnhof (Vienna’s main train station) to catch a train to Hallstatt. The train ride from Vienna to Hallstatt takes approximately three hours, but trust me, the time will fly by as you witness the stunning landscapes passing by your window.
Arriving in Hallstatt: A Fairytale Village
As you disembark from the train, you’ll find yourself in the heart of Hallstatt. The village is small and easily navigable on foot, making it a perfect destination for a leisurely stroll. Hallstatt is renowned for its idyllic setting, situated on the shores of the Hallstätter See (Lake Hallstatt) and surrounded by towering mountains.
Exploring the Village: History, Culture, and Beyond
Hallstatt’s history dates back over 7,000 years, and its rich heritage is visible at every turn. Start your exploration by visiting the Hallstatt Salt Mine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take a guided tour deep into the mountain and learn about the centuries-old salt mining traditions that have shaped the village’s identity. The underground tunnels, historic artifacts, and panoramic views from the mountaintop will leave you in awe.
Hallstatt’s White Gold – Salt
In 1997, the World Heritage Committee of UNESCO put Austria’s Hallstatt-Dachstein-Salzkammergut region on its list of Cultural Heritage Sites for special protection. Hallstatt, one of Austria’s oldest settlements, as well as one of its prettiest, is home to the oldest salt mine in the world. Located in the heart of Austria’s salt mother lode, the Salzkammergut, Hallstatt crouches beneath the Salzberg (Salt Mountain–not to be confused with Salzburg the city) along the shore of the Hallstaettersee which is 8 kms long, 2 kms wide and 135 meters deep and is surrounded by towering mountains that are part of the Dachstein Range.
“Hall” is the Celtic word for salt. What has become known as the Hallstatt Age in archeology dates from the 8th to 4th centuries BC and marks the Early Iron Age and the movement of the Celtic tribes to the area from the east. But evidence of salt mining here and in the surrounding area stretches back in time to the Neolithic Age. In 2001, scientists used radio carbon dating on an antler pick, uncovered in 1838, and determined it was 7,000 years old. This pick was the type commonly used by stone age man in mining and together with stone axes and fragments of a shoe provide the earliest evidence of settlement in Hallstatt from around 5000 BC.
The Village
As you wander through the village, be sure to visit the Hallstatt Museum, where you can delve into the region’s fascinating prehistoric past. Marvel at the ancient artifacts, including well-preserved burial artifacts and intricately crafted tools. For a glimpse into Hallstatt’s spiritual side, make your way to the charming Hallstatt Catholic Church. The church’s towering spire and tranquil surroundings offer a sense of peace and serenity.
Nature’s Splendor: Exploring the Outdoors
Hallstatt’s natural beauty is simply breathtaking, and outdoor enthusiasts will be spoiled for choice. Take a leisurely stroll along the lake’s edge, where you can enjoy the crystal-clear waters and admire the reflection of the mountains. If you’re feeling more adventurous, consider taking a boat ride on the lake or renting a kayak to explore its hidden corners.
For panoramic views of Hallstatt and its surroundings, take a cable car up to the Five Fingers Viewing Platform. As you stand atop the platform, you’ll be treated to jaw-dropping vistas of the village, the lake, and the majestic Alps. The experience is simply unforgettable.
Culinary Delights: Hallstatt’s Gastronomy
After a day of exploration, treat your taste buds to Hallstatt’s delectable cuisine. Visit one of the cozy lakeside restaurants and indulge in regional specialties such as Wiener Schnitzel, goulash, or the famous Austrian apple strudel. Wash it all down with a glass of locally produced wine or raise a toast with a refreshing Austrian beer.
Hurry Up!
Hallstatt is a gateway to a fairytale world; From the captivating alpine scenery to the village’s rich history and warm hospitality but the over-tourism is impacting it’s residents life so the city is taking measures to limit the number of the people that can go there as well as how they can manage the crowds. Only recently they started putting “selfie barriers”. These wood structures are meant as a way to hopefully limit unwelcome tourist behaviour but the authorities are looking into more permanent ways to focus on, as they call it, “quality tourism” in the future.
