The pretty Alpine heritage destination can get very busy, but visiting out of season is still a magical experience
Nestled in Austria’s stunning Salzkammergut region, the picturesque village of Hallstatt is a popular spot with travellers from all over the world. With its charming storybook looks, a rich history and breathtaking scenery, it’s no surprise this magical hamlet is one of Austria’s top destinations.
Hallstatt is home to an array of colourful houses and an historic market square that sit nestled between the mountains and a tranquil lake. In fact, the picture-postcard look of the place is so pretty it is believed to have inspired the enchanting kingdom of Arendelle in Disney’s Frozen .
The tiny village is home to around just 800 residents and is beloved by Instagrammers and influencers alike for its scenic beauty. But much more than just a pretty face, the village was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997 with roots trace back to the Iron Age and beyond.
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But the fairytale village is not without it’s problems as it can be is swamped with up to 10,000 visitors daily at peak times, giving locals growing cause for concern. In fact, Hallstatt is so popular with Chinese tourists that a life-size replica of the village has been constructed in Guangdong.
Residents have called for limits on visitor numbers and a ban on tour buses after 5pm, citing disruptions to their peaceful way of life. In a bold protest last summer, approximately 100 locals blocked the village’s main tunnel for 15 minutes, holding signs with messages like “Emergency brake now!” and “Think of our children.”
Earlier in the year, an “anti-selfie fence” briefly blocked a popular mountain view to curb noise pollution from eager tourists, but it was eventually removed.
Visiting out of season is the best way to discover The Hallstatt Dachstein Salzkammergut region. A haven for nature lovers and adventurers there is plenty to see and do all year round.
One such attraction is Hallstatt Ossuary. This eerie chapel holds over 1,200 human skulls, 600 of which are intricately painted as part of an ancient Alpine tradition.
The Ossuary dates back to the 12th century, but many of the the skulls were decorated at the end of the 18th century, with identity of the deceased family members carefully preserved by intricate paintings and inscriptions.
If painted skulls feels a bit bleak, the region is also home to the world’s oldest salt mine at Salzwelten were visitors can discover the history of the mine that dates back some 7000 years.
Other enchanting destinations include the Dachstein Cave Worlds on Krippenstein mountain where a recreated giant ice cave lets visitors embark on an adventure through snow and ice, or the incredible views from the 5fingers observation deck in nearby Obertraun.
For those visiting in winter, the Skywalk Hallstatt is a must. This fairy tale-like panorama high above the heritage village combines thrilling heights with tasty local food at the Rudolfsturm restaurant.
For somewhere to stay in the area, Seehotel Gruener Baum, is an ideal and authentic Austrian-style place to stay.
One guest said: “This boutique hotel in the heart of Hallstatt is a gem. The hotel itself is gorgeous and the receptionists made our check-in process a breeze. Our room offered a stunning view of the lake.”
