"Hallstatt . . . my inspiration" Top 5 Page for this destination Hallstatt by acemj

Hallstatt Travel Guide: 225 reviews and 719 photos

Hallstatt . . . my inspiration - Hallstatt

Hallstatt was really the impetus for my trip to Austria's Salzkammergut region (lake district). After seeing fairy tale photos of this striking town, I just had to see it with my own eyes. I had already seen many photographs and with each viewing, my anticipation grew. In many photos, the slender steeple of the town's Protestant church is the focal point. In all of them, Hallstatt's smiling face has no bad side. As seen from the side, a photo image reveals a narrow town that sits like a shelf dangling off a mighty mountain at its rear, with a glass-like lake lapping against its curving shoreline. In the distance snow-capped peaks frame the photo and in the foreground flowerboxes, greenery, or perhaps a . . .

picture by globetrott

swan. Yes, a swan. Aren't they the ethereal creatures we read about in fairy tales? I thought so.

While it was physical beauty that beckoned me (typical guy, I know!) it was the area's rich resources that attracted Hallstatt's original inhabitans in around 5000 BC. Yes, I said 5000 BC. In fact, Hallstatt is the oldest town in Austria and one of the oldest in all of Europe. Today, you can visit two museums (Heimatmuseum and Prahistorisches Museum) which will give you a glimpse into Hallstatt's long and interesting history.

Michael (VTer globetrott) was my official guide in Hallstatt and I appreciate his hospitality in showing me this true Austrian gem.

Last visit to Hallstatt: Jun 2004
Intro Updated Jan 1, 2005
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Reviews (21)

Little slice of paradise Favorites (3)

When I say "slice" I mean it. Hallstatt is really a very narrow slice of land that sits squeezed between a sheer... more travel advice

Stroll Things to Do (10)

I didn't spend too much time in Hallstatt, but I stayed long enough to realize that it's not a place to go for great... more travel advice

Photographer's heaven What to Pack (1)

Hallstatt is one of the most picturesque towns in Europe and if I were in charge of the Austrian tourist board, I'd... more travel advice

Main square Favorites (3)

Though Hallstatt is for the most part a sleepy village, it does have a main square with some restaurants, hotels and a... more travel advice

Transportation (1)
Train, boat, bus or car . . .
Hotels (1)
Private Rooms are the way to go
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Comments (9)

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matcrazy1 Sep 22, 2006 at 9:06 AM

Excellent pics, beautiful town, pretty location and great architecture! Thank you for sharing and you just convinced me to there when on the way :-)
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arlequin_g Apr 1, 2006 at 5:19 AM

I have to visit Austria again and see this beautiful place. Amazing the introduction photo. Greetings from Barcelona.
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Rhondaj Sep 11, 2005 at 5:33 AM

I hope to make it here one day-beautiful page!
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Helga67 Mar 29, 2005 at 1:47 AM

A remarkable town, thanks for sharing
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dr.firas Feb 4, 2005 at 6:51 AM

I see you admired well the beauty of Austria, Mark you did an excellent page again my friend ;-D
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Bwana_Brown Jan 10, 2005 at 8:27 AM

Marc, a great page on this extremely photogenic spot!! It does indeed look like a great place to just contemplate the beauty of life!
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seamandrew Jan 3, 2005 at 11:24 AM

Excellent page about one of Austria's historical treasures. Yes, old excrement can hold many clues about history!!! Your pictures are excellent and your tips infomative! Great page!
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globetrott Jan 1, 2005 at 8:36 PM

Hallstatt is one of my favorite places in Austria & your excellent pics show it at its best !
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b1bob Jan 1, 2005 at 6:50 PM

Nice scenery. "Some old sh**" can describe half the art in the world and I'll bet the artist got some kind of government grant for it.