Sales Guide Austria 2015/16

Sales Guide Austria 2 0 15 / 16 A guide to unique Austrian experiences. w w w. a u s t r i a . i n f o / u k _ b 2 b

And suddenly you realise that a full diary does not mean a fulfilled life.

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Austria a country in the heart of Europe.

Austria ranks as one of the world’s leading destinations and the number of British visitors it attracts is continually growing! In 2014 802,352 Britons arrived to spend a total of 3.4 million nights in Austria. They accounted for 3.5% of all overnight stays and 3.2% of all arrivals by nonAustrians, making the UK the fourth most important foreign market for overnight stays and fifth most important for arrivals.

But what makes Austria such a popular destination? Apart from the country’s excellent, reliable infrastructure and prime position at the heart of Europe, Austria is famed for its diverse, stunning scenery, top-notch cultural events to suit every taste, delicious cuisine and unparalleled charming, warm hospitality.

Its central location means it is highly accessible, being easily reached by plane or car from anywhere in Europe. UK holiday-makers mention the central location, the breath taking natural scenery, the wealth of musical and cultural heritage, the extensive choice of sports and activities on offer, the warm, friendly Austrian welcome, the obvious concern for nature and the environment and excellent value for money as key criteria in their choice of Austria as a holiday destination.

Our Sales Guide will introduce you to selected new product ideas, exciting destinations and outstanding hotels within the Austrian tourism sector. We hope it will not only inspire you, but also help you to make initial contact with Austrian suppliers and destinations that are new to you.

Think you know everything Austria has to offer? Think again. Austria has a surprise in store for you!

Ralph Strampfer Director UK

Basic facts on Austria .......................... 4

Innsbruck Tourist Board...................... 16

From lodge to lodge............................ 28

B2B services ....................................... 5

Brandnertal......................................... 30

BEST WESTERN PREMIER Harmonie Vienna ................................ 42

Austria at a glance ............................... 6

Swarovski Tourism Services GmbH...................................18

Lakeland love affair............................ 32

Wien Holding’s Cultural Enterprises .... 44

ÖBB Austrian Railways ......................... 8

Top skiing areas ................................. 20

Alpbachtal Seenland Tourism.............. 34

Schlumberger cellars ......................... 46

Tourism in Austria .............................. 10

TirolWest............................................ 22

Traunsee Holiday Region..................... 36

Short breaks ...................................... 48

Truly elemental .................................. 12

Kitzbühel/Kirchberg............................ 24

Vienna’s frothy blend of art................. 38

Austria’s Finest Experience Hotels ...... 50

Tirol Tourist Board .............................. 14

Das Central – Alpine . Luxury . Life........ 26

VPG Vienna PASS ............................... 40

Festivals ............................................ 52

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Basic facts

Area: 83,858 km² Population: 8.2 million Capital: Vienna International dialling code: 0043 Language: German is spoken as a first language by 98% of the Austrian population. English is by far the leading second language in the education system and is widely spoken.

Topography: Austria combines a truly unique variety of landscapes, climatic conditions and flora. Austria’s landscapes range from the peaks of the Alps to hill country and plains.

Climate: Austria’s climate is moderate and agreeable. Precipitation is quite evenly distributed over the year.

May, September and October tend to be the driest months, April and November are the wettest periods. During the summer months temperatures can easily reach 25-30 °C. A word of caution for hikers: as the weather can change very quickly in the mountains, please do check daily forecasts! During the winter months Austria becomes a skier’s heaven. The snow cover usually converts the pastures into slopes from mid-December to the end of March or, on some high alpine areas, even until the end of April.

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Temperatures in Austria’s major cities (°C) Pace May July Sep. Nov. Jan. Mar. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Vienna 19 24 20 7 1 8 max.

10 15 11 3 -6 1 min.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Klagenfurt 20 25 20 1 -1 9 max.

8 13 1 1 -8 -1 min.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Salzburg 18 25 20 8 2 9 max.

8 12 4 -4 -5 3 min.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Innsbruck 20 25 20 8 1 17 max.

8 13 4 -4 -4 4 min.

––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Visa regulations Citizens of the European Union (EU) require a valid identity card. Visitors who require a visa are advised to contact the Austrian Consulate. Advice can be found on the Austrian Embassy website www.austria.org.uk, or by calling the Visa Information Service on 020 300 25 936 (Monday-Friday, 08:00-17:00).

Please note that applications are administered by appointment only.

Customs regulations As an EU member state, the customs regulations of the European Union are valid for Austria. Prior to travelling to Austria, it is however advisable for citizens of all countries to contact the respective authorities as well as

customs offices at UK airports and railway stations. Pets are allowed into Austria with a valid EU Pet Pass. For more information please contact www.defra.gov.uk, tel. 0870 2411 710 Money The EURO is the official currency in Austria. All banks apply the same official rate of the day. Cash dispensers are as widely available as in the UK. Cash may be drawn either with “MAESTRO” or any of the common credit cards. Travellers’ cheques are honoured in banks but a transaction fee will be charged.

Banking hours In major cities and towns banks are generally open from 8:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m., on Thursdays to 5:00 p.m. Banks are closed Saturdays and Sundays.

Bureaux de change at airports and major rail terminals are open 7 days a week from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., in Vienna until 10:00 p.m.

Shopping hours Stores and supermarkets are open either at 8:00 or 9:00 a.m. and close at 6:00 p.m. Monday through Friday; or depending on the location until

12:00 noon or 5:00 p.m. on Saturdays.

However, food stores and news agents in many well-known holiday resorts stay open on Sundays, but are usually closed on public holidays.

Eating out Lunch is usually served from 12:00 noon to 2:00 p.m. and dinner from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. in resorts and up to 10:00 p.m. in towns and cities. Please note that smoking in restaurants is not completely banned.

Restaurants with less than 80 m² can be smoking or non-smoking places.

Places over 80 m² can either be non-smoking restaurants or have a completely separate smoking section.

A service charge is not included in the restaurant bill – gratuities of 10%-15% are expected. Credit cards are widely accepted. They might, however, be declined at some restaurants and smaller huts. If you wish to find out more about Austria’s culinary delights please visit www.via-culinaria.com and www.tiroler-wirtshaus.at.

Emergency services International emergency number:... 112 Fire service:................................ 122 Police:......................................... 133 Ambulance:................................. 144

B2B services at Austrian National Tourist Office.

“I’m here to help and support travel industry partners in a variety of ways.

Below you will find helpful information on the services we offer and how we can cooperate in bringing as many travellers to Austria as possible.”

Stephanie Sadjak Sales Promotion Manager. stephanie.sadjak@austria.info, T +44 207 440 3836, www.austria.info/uk_b2b

Our B2B web channels: www.austria.info/uk_b2b www.twitter.com/Austria_UK www.youtube.com/austriatourism

Editor and publisher: Austrian National Tourist Office 9-11 Richmond Buildings London W1D 3HF. ZVR number: 075857630 Project management: Stephanie Sadjak Graphics: Karin Trenkler Foreign language layout: Karen Green Printing: One Digital (Digaprint Ltd t/as) Publication date: November 2015 All prices shown in pounds in this brochure are in Pounds Sterling at the current exchange rate: 0,80 Picture credits: U1, U2, 4, 10, 12, 20, 28, 32, 48, 50: ANTO/Peter Burgstaller 21: Kärnten Werbung/Edward Groger; Silvretta Montafon; Saalbach Hinterglemm 38: Leopold Museum 49: Tirol Werbung/Moser Laurin; Getty Images 52: anja koehler | andereart.de

B2B Newsletter If you would like to receive more information on a regular basis, you can also register for regular travel trade updates about tourism in Austria, facts, new developments, presentations on destinations, new products and experiences, 4 times per year.

Database of incoming agencies This database contains tour operators and travel agencies who feature Austria in their programmes, specifying their names, contact data, specialist fields, as well as branch offices abroad and core markets. They are competent partners for planning and providing holidays in Austria.

Brochures, merchandising material, banners We offer various brochures for your clients or sales staff and also provide posters or merchandising material for events or trade fairs.

Austria’s best video collection A great selection of our own promotional material, as well as partner videos and even visitor footage from Austria, offering an insight into a wide variety of Austrian regions and seasonal activities via our YouTube channel.

Picture library Download free images of Austria at https://views.austria.info/. Browse over 15,000 images in our on-line image library, featuring all aspects of Austria, including cities, culture, architecture, countryside, people, sports, cuisine and hotels. Simply register, download your image and quote the Austrian National Tourist Office as source.

Fam trips, appointments with Austrian partners If you would like to get in contact with the Austrian tourist industry I am here to help you connect with the right partners.

Participation at travel and MICE markets We are happy to welcome you to our stand at the WTM and the Meetings Show UK. Please contact me for more information.

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Austria at a glance Contact details.

1 Vorarlberg Travel T +43 5572 377-0330 info@vorarlberg.travel www.vorarlberg.travel/en

2 Tirol Tourist Board T +43 512 5320-643 info@tirol.at www.tyrol.com

3 Salzburg State Board of Tourism T +43 662 6688-0 info@salzburgerland.com www.salzburgerland.com

Dual carriageways

Main connecting road

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5 Styria Tourist Board T +434 316 4003-0 info@steiermark.com www.steiermark.com/en

Road number

Railway International airport

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4 Carinthia Tourist Board T +43 463 3000 info@carinthia.at www.carinthia.at/en

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6 Upper Austrian Tourist Board T +43 732 221-022 info@oberoesterreich.at www.oberoesterreich.at/en

7 Lower Austrian Tourist Board T +43 2742 9000-9000 info@noe.co.at www.lower-austria.info

8 Burgenland Tourist Board T +43 2682 633 84-0 info@burgenland.info www.burgenland.info

9 Vienna Tourist Board T +43 1 24 555 info@wien.info www.wien.info/en

Yearning for holiday fun?

Let us inspire you.

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Our holiday information service offers individual advice and tips and will send you relevant documents and brochures.

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www.austria.info The official Austria page

www.facebook.com/visitaustria Holiday tips from people who have already been there or are there right now

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Holiday service 00800 400 200 00 (local rate) holiday@austria.info

www.youtube.com/austria Clips with highlights and special recommendations

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Travelling to Austria couldn’t be easier.

Please find a list of flights as well as details on how to get there by air, car or by rail at www.austria.info/uk/service-facts/ getting-there-around/flights-to-austria

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ÖBB oebb.at

Travelling times between major Austrian cities:

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Vienna – Salzburg: less than 2.5 hours with ÖBB Railjet

Vienna – Graz: 2 hours 38 mins with ÖBB Railjet

Salzburg – Innsbruck: less than 2 hours with ÖBB Railjet

Graz – Linz: starting from over 3 hours

Innsbruck – Bregenz: approx. 2.5 hours with ÖBB Railjet

Graz – Innsbruck: approx. 6 hours

Most important sites Discover Austria by train and travel from cities steeped in history, like Vienna and Salzburg, to the beautiful Austrian Alps that form the backdrop for “The Sound of Music”. Plus enjoy the architectural mix of old and new that this country has to offer.

Relax on your way to your next sightseeing tour

Contact ÖBB Austrian Railways Mag. Eva Buzzi T +43 1 89930 eva.buzzi@pv.oebb.at Am Hauptbahnhof 2 1100 Wien Customer service line: T +43 (0) 5 1717

General description Journeying to and through Austria by rail is easier than ever before. What better way to travel than through stunning alpine scenery, lush valleys, historic towns and picturesque villages on comfortable trains? With the modern ÖBB trains, all parts of Austria are easily accessible. Every region of Austria has its own charm – and its own ÖBB offers. Vienna and Salzburg are connected by ÖBB Railjet in less than 2.5 hours, for example. Austria’s railway system is very well developed, there are not only fast national connections, but also links to Austria´s neighbouring countries and destinations like Prague, Brno, Bratislava, Budapest, Munich and Zurich.

Photos: ÖBB/Harald Eisenberger, ÖBB/Robert Deopito

What makes us special – our services We offer a wide range of services on our trains.

In our long-distance trains our catering company “Henry am Zug” supplies guests with tasty food and seasonal offers. If travelling in First Class snacks, drinks and food will be served directly at your seat and newspapers will be provided for free. Our trains also offer air conditioning, generous luggage racks, plugs for charging electronic devices and on-board restaurants, depending on the train category. The ÖBB Railjet also offers a cinema for kids and free WIFI. There are lounges at various railway stations exclusively for First Class passengers. There you can spend your waiting time relaxing and drinking coffee.

Unique experience – a trip on the Semmeringbahn, UNESCO World Heritage railway” A trip on the UNESCO World Heritage Semmeringbahn to the charming, historic city centre of Graz – Austria’s second-largest city – combines impressive buildings and narrow alleyways with modern design and architecture. A special highlight is the Styrian Armoury (Landeszeug­ haus), the world´s largest historic armoury. Its collection takes you back to medieval days, when knights battled for honour in shiny armour. We whisk you away to your destination in comfort while you enjoy Austrian culinary delights or simply lean back to relax and marvel at the mountain peaks, castles and forest landscapes passing by. With ÖBB, you can reach Graz from Vienna in just over 2.5 hours – 16 times per day.

Enjoying Austrian specialities while travelling We highly recommend exploring the “Salzkammergut” lake and mountain region by train. On one of Austria’s most beautiful train routes you reach Bad Ischl, where you can visit Emperor Franz Joseph’s summer palace, or Hallstatt, where you take a boat from the rail­way station to the village, enjoying some of Austria’s most impressive scenery.

If you would like to take an extraordinary scenic journey through the Austrian Alps, we recommend taking the Eurocity train from Graz to Zurich, via Zell am See and Innsbruck, which also has a special panoramic carriage you can use if travelling First Class.

Sit down and enjoy! Meals and drinks will be served in your seat (fee payable).

Catering on ÖBB long-distance trains is provided by “Henry am Zug”, a DO&CO company. Henry offers a varying menu and seasonal offerings, including Austrian specialities. Drinks and food can be enjoyed in our onboard restaurant, or via the mobile trolley service.

In First Class you can order snacks, drinks or a whole meal at your comfortable seat.

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Tourism in Austria A success story in facts and figures.

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Austria merges tradition and modernity in a way no other European country does and is becoming the cultural hub of central Europe.

Tourism secures jobs and thus creates income and wealth – above all in regions and valleys with little industry. That is why, in Austria, this sector is very important for the national economy: after all, the tourism and leisure industries accounted for more than 15% of Austrian GDP last year.

But employment in tourism is also a major factor: almost one fifth of all full-time jobs in Austria are directly or indirectly based on tourism.

The importance of tourism in Austria can also be deduced from global ranking: we rank 13th in the world by absolute number of arrivals - not bad for such a small country. We are also among the top destinations worldwide when it comes to the resident population’s per-capita income from international tourism.

Often non-tourism sectors have little concept of how successful the attractive tourist destination that is Austria really is. Last year, more people than ever spent their vacation in Austria. In total, Austria welcomed more than 37.6 million visitors, an increase of 1.9% on the previous year. The total overnights amounted to 132 million. This means that the number of vacationers visiting Austria each day equals the total number of residents in Salzburg, Innsbruck and Klagenfurt. Much more important for the businesses and the Austrian economy, however, is how much money can be earned from tourism. In total, 2014 revenue: 23 billion But what attracts millions of vacationers to Austria each year?

Let’s start with our country’s natural features: whether it’s the Alps, the Danube or the Pannonian Plain, Austria contains many natural landscapes that can be found in Europe. To this day, Austria boasts an abundance of unspoilt nature, mountains, forests, lakes and fertile land. Clearly, there is a great deal of nature to explore and enjoy at your leisure, or use for sporting activities, both in summer and winter.

Austria is becoming the cultural hub of central Europe. Austria merges tradition and modernity in a way no other European country does. Once the centre of the Habsburg monarchy’s empire, for centuries Austria was exposed to the multi-cultural influences from eastern and southern Europe, as well as from Italy and the southern German region. Viennese classical music, the waltz and operetta melodies of Johann Strauss and Franz Lehár, and Viennese Modernism flourished in this rich cultural soil. Today’s Austrian art and culture scene is based on Austria’s background as a European meeting place and retains its international charisma and attraction to this day.

However, Austria is also a country that knows how to live. A very relaxed way of life emerged due to Austria’s eventful history, its pleasant healthy climate, and its fertile landscapes. The characteristics are a cordial attitude, a genuine enjoyment and our proverbial conviviality. The Austrian lifestyle is based on wellbeing and leaves a permanent and enriching impression on our guests.

It is, after all, the long-standing tradition of hospitality that turns Austrians into especially professional and talented hosts. They anticipate their guests’ needs and requests and fulfill them with utter care. Austrian hosts help vacationers find their personal ways to enjoy life and relax. That’s why, apart from the great natural and distinct features Austria offers, encounters with the people of this country add to the true vacation bliss.

Once business people have an idea of a country, once they have visited it while on vacation, it is easier to do business – a matter of trust, after all – as the next logical step. Local tourism thus opens doors for export businesses. And the tourism brand and what the industry conveys to the world about Austria are in any case an integral part of our country’s position and significance.

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Truly elemental Walking in the Alps not only means taking things at your own pace, but also discovering the boundless freedom of living.

These are mighty natural landscapes, and you breathe in their very strength on an alpine walk. Along the routes, you also discover some of the customs of this country.

Up here, you sense what makes summer in the mountains so special. When the alpine pastures spread out before you in the morning sun. When the wooden tiles on the alpine lodge shimmer in the sunlight, and the gentle wind rushes through the pine trees and mingles with the sound of cowbells, and when the mountains rise up steeply to meet the horizon.

In the Alps, walking not only means taking things at your own pace, but also experiencing, smelling and hearing life. And, as walking also encourages you to adopt a slower pace, you also take in the things around you that much more intensively. It’s then that your walking tour becomes a journey of discovery, on these impressive alpine paths that tell so much about the history and the day-to-day culture of the country.

These alpine routes are an expression of the fact that Austria is a meeting point for a wide range of cultures. For it was thanks to these routes that lively exchanges took place in early times, allowing an alpine popular culture to emerge. It is this which gave rise to many traditions, customs and festivals lived and celebrated today by locals.

You can discover this as you meet up with friendly farming people, baking their own sourdough rye bread on enclosed fires in the courtyard. They use the same principle as people did 20,000 years ago in the Alps. It’s a fascinating experience, giving you a sense of the love of life which is deeply rooted amongst the locals here. Your host serves up homemade Bergkäse (mountain cheese) and is only too willing to recount stories of life in the Alps.

Meanwhile, the sky is bathed in tones of fiery red as the sun sets, and then, even as a visitor, you feel very close to something truly elemental.

“The things I didn’t gather from formal learning I learned on my walks and through travel.”

Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, 1749 -1832

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Tirol Tourist Board www.b2b.tirol.at

Germany

Italy

How to get there

Commissionable package – Bike Trail Tirol

Distances from/to a major city and airport:

The Bike Trail Tirol is the longest mountain bike trail in the Alps and loops along cycle paths through the different regions of Tirol, covering 32 stages, 1,000 kilometres and a total increase in elevation of 27,000 metres.

5 km (3 miles) – lnnsbruck Int. Airport, 5 minutes from downtown, connects to the hubs of Vienna, Amsterdam and Frankfurt.

170 km (106 miles) – lnnsbruck is 170 kilometres from Munich Int. Airport.

250 km (155 miles) – lnnsbruck is 250 kilometres from Zürich Int. Airport.

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You can start wherever you please and most stretches are two-way.

Bike Trail Tirol is suitable for both recreational cyclists and professionals.

5 days/4 nights Overnight accommodation in 4- and 3-star hotels, including breakfast, luggage transfer, maps.

From €369 Contact: Mr Klaus Humenberger klaus.humenberger@touristik.at www.tyrol.com/bike-trail-tirol

Tirol – Heart of the Alps

Contact Tirol Tourist Board Maria-Theresien-Straße 55 6020 Innsbruck T +43 512 5320-643 www.b2b.tirol.at b2b@tirolwerbung.at

General description Home to the world-famous ski resorts of St Anton and Kitzbühel, along with long-time British favourites such as Mayrhofen, Obergurgl and Alpbach, the Austrian Tirol suits everyone, from novices to seasoned, veteran skiers. When you see images of Austria as a white wonderland, it is sometimes hard to imagine what happens when the snow melts away. What remains is the same beautiful, natural scenery, but this time in colour, with the landscape painted every possible shade of green. The traditional Tirolean houses are brought to life and the mountains call you to experience a different type of adventure. Walking, hiking, mountain biking, cycling, climbing, paragliding – any outdoor adventure sport you can imagine is possible in the Austrian Tirol.

The heartfelt warm reception that the region extends to all who visit brings holidaymakers back year after year. The locals are genuinely friendly, food is hearty (just what you need after a day in the mountains), accommodation is high quality and more to the point, affordable, and the resorts exude true mountain village charm.

Photos: Tirol Werbung

Unique experience – the Eagle Walk The eagle represents freedom and independence, power and wisdom, and soars with grandeur and dignity over Tirol’s glorious mountain scenery. The Eagle Walk is arguably the most beautiful long-distance hiking trail in Austria. Well-maintained, carefully way-marked and cross-referenced to detailed maps, this varied trail is truly a natural wonderland. All in all, the Eagle Walk includes 128 day hikes with a total distance of 1,480 kilometres and a total vertical rise of some 87,000 metres. Some of the stages lead you through the Karwendel nature reserve, one of Tirol’s most gorgeous regions. Your guide shows you the things worth seeing, especially the alpine wildlife. On your way through the Karwendel you will stay in three different traditional alpine huts. Starting high above Innsbruck you will hike for 6 days, passing unforgettable scenery until you reach the source of the Isar river in Scharnitz. www.tyrol.com/eagle-walk Bookable package – guided hiking tour of the “Karwendel Nature Reserve”: 5 nights including half board in 3 different traditional alpine huts from €490 pp, minimum number of participants – 8; maximum number of participants – 15. Contact: Alpinschule Innsbruck GmbH, Martin Rainer, In der Stille 1, 6161 Natters, martin.rainer@asi.at

Commissionable package – Tirol Mountain Bike Safari Discover Tirol’s awe-inspiring land­ scapes on the lift-assisted Tirol Mountain Bike Safari, a 660-kilometre route crisscrossing the heart of the Alps on twisty, fun, mountain bike trails.

Mountain bikers planning a cycling holi­ day in Europe won’t run out of ideas any time soon in the mountains of Tirol – the new Tirol Mountain Bike Safari enables cyclists to plan a tour through the heart of the Alps on a single cycle route.

The Tirol Mountain Bike Safari is just the ticket for those looking for flexible bike touring fun:

4 days, 3 nights in 3-star hotels Including breakfast and luggage transfer, lift tickets, maps.

12,000 of the total 25,000 metres of increase in elevation along the Bike Safari are conveniently serviced by a network of 18 cable-car systems.

From €319 Contact: Mr Klaus Humenberger klaus.humenberger@touristik.at

www.tyrol.com/bikesafari 15

Innsbruck Tourist Board www.innsbruck.info

Germany

Italy

How to get there

Most important sites

Daily flights in winter, 2 x weekly in summer from London Gatwick to Innsbruck Airport, 5 km from the city centre.

Imperial Tomb of Emperor Maximilian.

Ranked by UNESCO as one of the most important tombs in the world. www.tiroler-landesmuseen.at

Daily flights from most major UK airports all year. Munich Airport – 190 km to Innsbruck.

The Golden Roof. Innsbruck’s internationally famous landmark. www.innsbruck.info/en The Nordkette. A future UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site, Innsbruck’s mountain offers fantastic views and spectacular nature. www.nordkette.com/en

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Olympia SkiWorld Innsbruck.

The only Olympic resort in Austria, host to three winter Olympic Games, offers nine resorts accessible with one ski pass, with a free ski bus from the city to the resorts. www.innsbruck-pauschalen.com/en/ winter

Innsbruck Tourist Board – Capital of the Alps

Contact Innsbruck Tourist Board Peter Unsinn, MA p.unsinn@innsbruck.info T +43 512 59850 148 Burggraben 3, 6020 Innsbruck T +43 5125 98500 office@innsbruck.info www.innsbruck.info

General description Steeped in centuries of colourful history, Innsbruck features many fine examples of Imperial splendour bestowed on the town by Habsburg rulers with a penchant for architecture and the creative arts. Some of the town’s most significant monuments date back to the late 15th century, marking the early days of the Austrian monarchy. Visitors are taken on a journey back through time, with an enchanting array of splendid architectural gems from the Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque and Neo-Classical periods. Historic landmarks such as the Golden Roof, the Imperial Church, the Imperial Palace and Ambras Castle evoke the grandeur of the former Habsburg Empire. But Innsbruck also boasts visionary urban design to make any modern architecture enthusiast’s pulse race: the Bergisel Olympic Ski Jump and the Nordkettenbahnen Cable Cars – both created by Zaha Hadid – and the Town Hall, designed by Dominique Perrault. Innsbruck also plays a significant role as a major international sports hub located in the heart of the Alps, which has already hosted three Winter Olympic Games, and numerous European and World Championship events. In all, Innsbruck remains a must-see destination in Europe.

What makes us unique Shopping. Original products from Swarovski, Bogner, Hugo Boss and many more famous brands can be bought in the city centre.

Alpine. Take a funicular from the city centre to the Nordkette mountain in just 20 minutes.

Experience the stunning countryside above Innsbruck, which is listed to become a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site.

Urban. Experience the medieval history of this city, with buildings dating back to the 13th century, including the internationally famous Golden Roof and the imperial tomb of Emperor Maximilian.

Photos: TVB Innsbruck

Unique experience The nine ski regions in the Olympia SkiWorld Innsbruck make alpine skiing and snowboarding in Innsbruck an unbeatable experience! There is a total of nine ski resorts, with 90 lifts and cable cars to whisk skiers up to the lofty heights surrounding Innsbruck and, with the help of snowmaking equipment, the fun on the slopes is guaranteed to last until late into spring. The skiing Eldorado comprises almost 300 km of pistes and is accessible on just one ski pass.

Events

Great restaurants

Hotels

Four Hills Ski Jump Tournament.

The most-watched ski jump tournament in the world. 02.01.-03.01.2016. www.bergiselspringen.at

Traditional – Weisses Rössl.

Innsbruck’s oldest restaurant, established in 1590. www.roessl.at/

The Grand Hotel Europa.

Innsbruck’s 5-star hotel in the heart of the city. www.grandhoteleuropa.at

Gourmet – Europa Stüberl.

Gault Millau-listed restaurant that serves traditional and modern dishes. www.grandhoteleuropa.at/en/info/ restaurant-europa-stueberl

Hotel the Penz.

Boutique business hotel in Innsbruck’s Old Town, designed by Dominique Perrault. www.thepenz.com

Billabong Air and Style 2015. The world’s best snowboarders compete in this famous event. 05.02. - 06.02.2016. www.innsbruck-pauschalen.com/en/ events/air-style Festival of Old Classical Music.

Celebrating its 40th anniversary. 14.07.- 27.08.2016. www.altemusik.at/en/nocache

Modern Gourmet – Das Schindlers.

A fantastic chic, new restaurant in the heart of the city. www.dasschindler.at

Der Adler.

Innsbruck’s designer hotel, with every room enjoying floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows. www.deradler.com

Nala Hotel.

Innsbruck’s newest hotel, a shining star of boutique design. www.nala-hotel.at

Innsbruck’s complete hotel listing can be found on our website. www.innsbruck.info/en/your-stay/ e-books.html 17

Swarovski Crystal Worlds www.swarovski.com/kristallwelten

Most important sites

How to get there Germany

Vienna

Wattens Innsbruck Italy

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Swarovski Crystal Worlds and Swarovski Kristallwelten Store Innsbruck: Innsbruck airport & Innsbruck main railway station (Hauptbahnhof). The Kristallwelten Shuttle makes the journey from Innsbruck main railway station to Swarovski Crystal Worlds several times per day.

Nearest airports: Munich (180 km), Salzburg (160 km), Zurich (280 km).

Swarovski Kristallwelten Store Vienna: Vienna Airport and Vienna main railway station (Hauptbahnhof).

ART meets haute couture: Swarovski presents Jean Paul Gaultier in Vienna and Innsbruck In September 2015 Jean Paul Gaultier unveiled the installations he designed especially for the cubes – glass oriels in the facade of Swarovski Crystal Worlds store Vienna – and the Chamber of Wonder at Swarovski Crystal Worlds store Innsbruck. There is a long-standing partnership between the company and the French designer.

D. Swarovski Tourism Services GmbH

Photos: Swarovski Kristallwelten: small Pictures: Swarovski Kristallwelten/Joachim Haslinger/Gerhard Berger/Victor Brigola

Contact D. Swarovski Tourism Services GmbH Nicole Lindner nicole.lindner@swarovski.com T +43 5224 500-3329 Kristallweltenstraße 1 6112 Wattens T +43 5224 51080-3810 F +43 5224 51080-3831 swarovski.kristallwelten@swarovski.com www.swarovski.com/kristallwelten www.swarovski.com/innsbruck www.swarovski.com/wien

General description – new era of wonder From the very beginning, when he founded his cut crystal company in Wattens, Tirol, Austria in 1895, Daniel Swarovski had a vision that crystal shouldn’t just be regarded as a material, but as a source of inspiration. The family company has since experienced over one hundred years of tradition and success, and the fascination surrounding crystal is greater than ever. To satisfy this interest, Swarovski has created three locations in which crystal becomes a holistic experience: Swarovski Kristallwelten (Swarovski Crystal Worlds), Swarovski Kristallwelten Store Innsbruck and Swarovski Kristallwelten Store Vienna. Swarovski Kristallwelten (Swarovski Crystal Worlds) opened in Wattens, the home of crystal, in 1995. Since then, this fantasy realm has given more than 12 million visitors, customers and fans of crystal innumerable wonderful moments. A new era of wonder has begun with the 120th anniversary of Swarovski’s founding in Tirol and the 20th anniversary of Swarovski Crystal Worlds. After its third and biggest expansion to date, between 2013 and 2015, this world of wonders now spreads out over 7.5 hectares and displays several new facets.

What makes us unique Swarovski Crystal Worlds, Swarovski Kristallwelten Store Innsbruck and Vienna offer their visitors something unique and unforgettable… exploration and shopping in a world of sparkling art and lively culture, drawing inspiration from a variety of ever-changing events. The three locations are central, easily accessible, and well situated on main routes to favourite travel destinations such as Vienna, Salzburg, Innsbruck, Munich, Zurich and Venice.

The multilingual teams at our three locations are happy to welcome international visitors in over 20 languages. Each visitor in the group will receive a crystalline surprise when making a purchase. For tour leaders we offer a Business Lounge, with free telephone and Internet access in all three locations.

Unique experience – Music in the Giant Every year, in May, Swarovski Crystal Worlds play host to the “Music in the Giant” festival.

In recent years the virtuoso chamber music program established by Tirolean composer and pianist Thomas Larcher has developed into a platform for creative freedom, with an emphasis on artistic exchange and an in-depth musical experience.

What’s new?

Special package Special guided tour Crystal Clear Vistas in Innsbruck and Vienna Experience a whole new kind of city tour that will leave you spellbound with wonder. The binoculars from SWAROVSKI OPTIK let you dive into a world of hidden detail and experience Innsbruck and Vienna from an entirely new point of view. Meeting point and start of the tour will be Swarovski Innsbruck and Swarovski Vienna.

The city tour where frescos seem to come to life and remote points seem so close you could practically reach out and touch them, takes about 1½-2 hours.

The Chambers of Wonder have fascinated the public for 20 years.

The list of famous artists and designers who, in 2015, have redesigned five rooms with their artworks, is impressive.

Duo CAO PERROT was responsible for the unique creation that is this park landscape. The jewel in the crown of the new garden is the Crystal Cloud.

The mystical masterpiece occupies 1,400 square metres and consists

of some 800,000 hand-mounted Swarovski crystals, floating above a black mirror pool. South of the iconic Giant, the play tower and the innovative outdoor playground area offer children of all ages plenty of space to play and climb.

www.swarovski.com/kristallwelten 19

Top skiing areas Austria’s best winter skiing areas for all abilities.

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Ötztal, Tirol The Ötztal valley is one of Austria’s special skiing areas. Modern cable cars connect 3 “threethousanders” – the Gaislachkogel, the Tiefenbachkogel and Schwarze Schneid mountains, which are all over 3,000 metres high. There are breathtaking mountain panoramas to admire from the impressive viewing platforms on all of them and if you’re looking for an exciting evening after a day on the slopes, look no further than the lively ski resort of Sölden. 1,377 to 3,250 metres.

Opening over the Easter period planned, snow practically guaranteed (two glaciers). Night skiing in Obergurgl and Sölden. www.oetztal.com

Silvretta, Vorarlberg Special experiences await skiers, snowboarders, freeriders, freestylers and luxury seekers in Silvretta Montafon. Visitors can expect a wealth of activities in addition to skiing – night-time toboggan rides, traditional folk music in mountain huts, mountain breakfasts, torch-lit hikes – plus numerous events, such as the FIS Boardercross World Cup, or fantastic opening concerts.

Up to 2,430 metres. Operates well into the spring. www.silvretta-montafon.at Nassfeld, Carinthia Nassfeld is where the sun makes its home, plus it offers more than 100 km of perfectly groomed, varied pistes; one of the longest floodlit pistes in the Alps (2.2. km); a valley descent almost 8 km long; a freeride area and a snowpark. Open over Easter, high level guarantee of snow. 610 to 2,020 m. Night skiing every Saturday. www.nassfeld.at Salzburger Sportwelt The Salzburger Sportwelt is a massive, varied ski area with more than 760 km of pistes. The ski pass is valid for the whole of the Ski Amadé area, which covers Salzburger Sportwelt itself, Schladming/Dachstein, Hochkönig, Großartal and Gastein. 850 m (Wagrain) to 2,700 m (Kreuzkogel Sportgastein). Open until after Easter. Night skiing in Flachau, Schladming and on the Hochkönig. www.salzburgersportwelt.com Schladming/Dachstein, Styria Schladming is the perfect combination of lively ski atmosphere and idyllic mountain scenery, with a superb infrastructure that was upgraded yet again for the 2013 Ski World Cup. The four mountain ski circus links the Reiteralm, Hochwurzen, Planai and Hauser Kaibling mountains.

A highlight in the local skiing calendar is the Men’s World Cup Night Slalom, when ten thousand ski enthusiasts flood into Schladming to cheer on the world’s top skiers. And one thing is certain – if you win in Schladming, your name will go down in the history books as a legendary slalom skier. 745 to 2,700 m. Opening planned until after Easter, good level of guaranteed snow.

Night skiing – a special experience in Schladming. www.schladming.at Saalbach-Hinterglemm-Leogang, SalzburgerLand The Saalbach-Hinterglemm-Leogang ski area is synonymous with 200 km of perfectly groomed downhill pistes, 55 modern cable cars and ski lifts, 12 km marked cross-country trails and snowparks. For something different, what about the ski movie runs, where everyone can have their own ski video made and be the star of their own skiing movie? 1,000 to 2,100 m.

Opening planned until after Easter. Night skiing: flood-lit piste until 21.30. www.skicircus.at Arlberg, Tirol/Vorarlberg The Arlberg region is regarded as the “birthplace of skiing”. Its ski schools are among the best in the world, and the resorts of St. Anton, Lech, Zürs, St. Christoph and Stuben are some of the leading ski destinations in Europe. It’s a paradise for experienced skiers and snowboarders and novices alike: 340 km prepared pistes, 200 km of off-piste skiing in deep snow, more than 94 lifts and mountain railways. Variety is the spice of life here – there are funparks, gourmet Alpine restaurants and night tobogganing. 1,300 to 2,811 m. Open until after Easter, very high level of guaranteed snow, www.arlberg.net

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TirolWest www.tirolwest.at

Germany

Italy

How to get there

Hotel Enzian

Munich, Innsbruck and Salzburg airports and train station Landeck/Zams train station. 45 mins to 3 hours.

The “Enzian” is a family-owned hotel in Perjen. At the centre of the ultimate Tirolean holiday resort with Serfaus, Ischgl, St. Anton, Zürs und Lech, and everything necessary for a pleasant stay – great food, comfortable beds, delightful ambiance.

32 rooms, 5 hospitable dining rooms, hotel bar, sun terraces, secluded garden, delightful wellness centre, massage studio. Official BMW motorcycle test ride hotel, prime Tirolean ski safari hotel, hiking & soft-top car hotel – just a taste of what awaits at the Hotel Enzian, an exciting stay in an enticing ambience, wonderful regional delicacies, authentic Tirolean hospitality, laid-back lifestyle and an inspiring tourism concept,

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providing countless new opportunities on a daily basis.

Package: – 7 or 5 days half board – 5- or 4-day ski passes Venet/Ischgl/St. Anton/Serfaus Fiss/choice between Kappl, Hochzeiger, Schöneben bus transfers to and from the ski areas and ski guide is included.

– TirolWest Card Double room incl. half board and ski safari from €669 per person Contact: T +43 5442 62066 info@hotel-enzian.com www.hotel-enzian.com

Photos: Tirol Werbung/Bauer Frank; TVB TirolWest/Rupert Gapp; Hotel Enzian/Kresser; Hotel Jägerhof; Hotel Mozart

TirolWest

Contact Holiday region TirolWest Jessica Zetti T +43 5442 65600-510 jessica@tirolwest.at Malserstraße 10, A-6500 Landeck T +43 5442 65600, info@tirolwest.at www.tirolwest.at

General description TirolWest is city, scenery, rivers and mountains. This is where our visitors can savour the unique regional features and authenticity of the mountains, the land and its inhabitants.

In the heart of the world’s best ski destinations. The TirolWest holiday region is located in a kingdom of 3,000 m peaks, making it an ideal starting point for ski adventures through the world’s best ski destinations, such as Ischgl, St. Anton, Serfaus-Fiss-Ladis and Lech/Zürs.

No fewer than 11 well-known skiing regions can be found within 30 km.

The TirolWest culinary region delights visitors with its home-made, highly alcoholic fruit spirits from the Stanz plum region, the Landeck fresh food market and one of the world’s best chocolatiers.

Tirol is a land of castles and palaces – more than 20 of them are located in and around the region, such as Landeck castle, the museums in Fliess, the ruins of Kronburg and Schrofenstein castles, etc.

What makes us unique – Free TirolWest Card with many all inclusive benefits: entrance to regional museums, tastings along culinary routes, unlimited journeys on regional buses, etc.

– At the heart of the world’s best ski destinations – www.ski.tirolwest.at – Cultural and culinary delights and many events – www.veranstaltungen.tirolwest.at – Ideal location for trips Unique experience The TirolWest holiday region is situated among lofty 3,000 metre peaks, so it offers the ideal starting point for day trips to the world’s best ski areas, such as Ischgl, St. Anton, and Lech/Zürs.

Hotel Enzian

Hotel Jägerhof

Hotel Mozart Landeck ****

Hotel Jägerhof Holidaying at the Jägerhof feels like home, with a variety of inclusive services to enjoy. Spacious rooms with shower or bath, WC, flat screen TV, make-up mirror and hair dryer (free wifi). Bathrobe, sauna towel and beach bag during stay. Free use of our hotel’s indoor swimming pool and our spa area. Exercise studio. Lavish breakfast buffet with many healthy local products. 4-course menu with salad buffet and weekly themed buffets. Free parking right outside the hotel. Ski locker.

The Jägerhof in Zams is the feel-good destination at the heart of 1,000 km of fantastic pistes. Guests will find space to relax and dream in the welcoming family atmosphere.

The excellent cuisine seduces the senses every day. The beautiful

Hotel Mozart

spa area, with indoor pool and beauty treatments, beckons for rest and relaxation after an active winter’s day.

Package January hit: – 7 days half board – Jägerhof inclusive services – Redesigned indoor swimming pool with wave machine, waterfall, massage jets – Sauna, steam bath, herbal bath, Finnish sauna etc.

– TirolWestCard – Nice cosy Tirolean-style rooms 7 days from €434 per person 09.01.-02.06.2016

In the centre of one of the largest and most exciting ski areas in Europe.

Almost 1,000 km of slopes wait to be discovered in Ischgl, St. Anton-Arlberg, Serfaus-Fiss-Ladis, Nauders-Reschenpass and Landeck-Venet.

Our hotel offers everything guests could want for a comfortable and active week’s skiing. Pool, sauna, steam bath, garage and massage, combined with superb food and drink.

“Small is beautiful!” Enjoy a small hotel with a very warm and personal atmosphere.

“Mozart ski safari” package: All-inclusive ski package with half board, transfer, ski pass and guiding included: 7 or 5 days, starting from £812 per person We are always busy renovating the rooms and furnishings to offer our guests the best.

Contact: T +43-5442-64222 landeck@mozarthotels.at www.mozarthotels.at

Contact: T +43 5442 62642 nfo@jaegerhof-zams.at www.jaegerhof-zams.at 23

Kitzbühel www.kitzski.uk

Most important sites

Events/Festivals

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– 14th Valartis Bank Snow Polo World Cup on 14.01.2016 (the world’s biggest snow polo tournament).

– 76th Hahnenkamm Race: from 19 to 24 January 2016 the world’s most spectacular downhill course will ask professional skiers to give their all.

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www.kitzbuehel.com/en/eventslifestyle

www.kitzbueheler-alpen.com/en/ kirchberg/service/veranstaltungen.html

Germany

Italy

Kitzbühel town centre – the 700 year-old Old Town creates a very special atmosphere in which to shop, relax and enjoy!

Legendenpark Kitzbühel – the place where all the Kitzbühel greats of skiing are immortalized.

The “Streif” – the world’s most spectacular descent at the foot of the Hahnenkamm.

Igloo village in Brixen im Thale .

www.kitzbuehel.com/en 24

Ice climbing in Kirchberg from 18 December – a thrilling climbing experience in the new Ice Park at Gaisberg. Professional supervision and equipment hire available at the Ice Park.

2nd International Fatbike Festival from 04-06 December: test, ride & celebrate with a new generation of mountain bikes (including for winter)!

Kitzbüheler Alpen-Brixenthal

Contact Kitzbühel Tourismus Bettina Berger T +43 5356 66660-51 b.berger@kitzbuehel.com Hinterstadt 18 6370 Kitzbühel T +43 5356 6666-0 info@kitzbuehel.com www.kitzbuehel.com

Photos: Kitzbühel Tourismus/media lounge; Bergbahnen Kitzbühel

Tourismusverband Kitzbüheler Alpen-Brixenthal Christoph Stöckl T +43 664 121 17 48 c.stoeckl@kitzbuehel-alpen.com Hauptstraße 8 6365 Kirchberg in Tirol T +43 57507-2000 kirchberg@kitzbuehel-alpen.com www.kirchberg.at

General description – Kitzbühel/Kirchberg: Perfect winter since 1893 It’s not just the Hahnenkamm Race that is legendary in Kitzbühel/Kirchberg in the Austrian Tirol region – discover 209 kilometres of ski runs, 54 lifts and an outstanding mix of culture and nature that make this region the best ski area in the world, and an unparalleled place for winter sports enthusiasts. Kitzbühel/Kirchberg in the Austrian Tirol region has been making skiing history since 1893, and no other destination in the Alps has greater appeal for skiing enthusiasts.

Yet there are so many more reasons to visit than for amazing skiing – one is the Hahnenkamm Race on the ‘Streif’, which is quite possibly the hardest and most popular ski race in the world and has held countless audiences under its spell for the past 75 years. Even more of a draw is the stunning natural scenery with slopes lying amidst the enchanting beauty of the Austrian mountains – so it’s for good reason that the region was chosen once again as the number one ski destination in the world.

What makes us special – Skiing in the world’s best ski area (54 lifts, 56 ski huts, ski pass valid for the whole Kitzbühel/Kirchberg region) – The world’s most famous ski slope – the legendary “Streif”/The world’s most famous ski race – the Hahnenkamm race – Exclusive shopping in Kitzbühel’s charming town centre – 12 Gault Millau toques shared between eight gourmet restaurants – Numerous ski-in, ski-out hotels – 3.5 km (night) toboggan run – Ice climbing wall Unique experience Kitzbühel/Kirchberg offers the perfect conditions for an active holiday in the Tirol. Whether it’s cross-country skiing, winter hikes or ice climbing – Kitzbühel/Kirchberg is the perfect starting point for winter sports in the Tirol. From the legendary Hahnenkamm downhill race and the Snow Polo World Cup to the traditional ATP Tennis tournament - throughout the year Kitzbühel/ Kirchberg mixes sport, culture and entertainment, notching up one must-see event after another.

Hotels Rasmushof Hotel Kitzbühel The family-run Rasmushof is located right at the bottom of the famous “Streif” run, beside the ski slope, yet just five minutes’ walk from the centre of Kitzbühel. The whole of the Kitzbühel Alps ski area is at your feet, with bags of room to ski to your heart’s content.

Activ Sunny Hotel Sonne**** The family-run hotel, which nestles among the imposing Kitzbühel Alps, is an enchanting place to relax, combining charm with a varied programme of activities, elegance, casual flair and exquisite style.

There is room for everything, for lively activities, brilliant enjoyment, melodious evenings and cheerful relaxation.

Sporthotel Reisch**** The Sporthotel Reisch is situated in the heart of Kitzbühel and is just a few minutes’ walk from the ski lift. Whether you are looking for a sublime culinary experience in the Restaurant Kaiserstuben or charming, comfortable accommodation in the new Legend rooms – you will enjoy a very special holiday in the Sporthotel Reisch!

Hotel Zentral**** The fully renovated 4-star hotel is situated on a quiet side road in the centre of Kirchberg. During your stay you will be enchanted by the 70 modern Tirolean-style, confortable rooms and seven junior suites, all with the superb panoramic view of the Kitzbühel Alps.

You can find special offers for all the partner hotels at www.kitzski.uk 25

Das Central – Alpine . Luxury . Life www.central-soelden.at

Germany

Italy

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How to get there

Most important sites

Nearest airport: Innsbruck (84 km from Sölden, driving time from airport to the hotel approx. 1 hour). The driving time from the international airports at Munich and Zürich is approx. 3 hours.

ice Q www.soelden.com/iceq On top of Gaislachkogl (3,048 m) lies the new ice Q Design & Gourmet Restaurant, with finest Alpine cuisine and astounding panoramic views.

AREA 47 www.area47.at AREA 47 combines nature & high-tech in a spectacular experience on a 6.5 hectare site, from the 350 m-long zip line, to climbing & canyoning tours.

Nearest railway station: Ötztal Bahnhof (approx. 34 km from Sölden, driving time from the station to the hotel approx. 30 mins), or Innsbruck main railway station (Hauptbahnhof) (approx.

84 km from Sölden, driving time from the station to the hotel approx. 1 hour).

ALMZEIT www.soelden.com/almzeit Totter beam, outdoor skittles, XXL telescopes etc. – the ALMZEIT is the family theme trail which brings Sölden’s mountains to life.

BIG 3 www.soelden.com/big-3 Sölden offers three 3,000 m peaks – the BIG 3 – connected by modern ski lifts. The BIG 3 are three viewing platforms, three skiing mountains and three unique panoramas: Gaislachkogl, Tiefenbachkogl and Schwarze Schneid.

Das Central – Alpine . Luxury . Life

Contact

Photos: Alexander Lohmann; small Pictures: Alexander Lohmann/Stefano Scatà/Alexander Lohmann/Rudi Wyhlidal

Das Central – Alpine . Luxury . Life Renate Waschl info@central-soelden.at T + 43 5254 2260-0 Auweg 3 6450 Sölden/Ötztal T + 43 5254 2260-0 F +43 5254 2260 511 info@central-soelden.at www.central-soelden.at

General description “Das Central – Alpine . Luxury . Life “ lies in the heart of the Ötztal valley, an Eldorado of winter sports and summer activities. The 5-star hotel is a top address for sports enthusiasts, for those in search of relaxation, and for people who crave a casual atmosphere, but who also appreciate luxury and culinary delights. Das Central is a perfect, harmonious combination of award-winning cuisine and superb wines. Guests can enjoy Austrian Alpine cuisine, creative Mediterranean and Asian cooking, and select from a wine cellar housing more than 30,000 bottles of fine wine from all over the world. Individuality was the watchword when fitting out the 125 rooms and suites.

They are furnished in various styles – from elegant Provençal, via contemporary, to rusticTirolean feel. The 3-floor, Venice-inspired Venezia Water World offers relaxation, enlivening saunas and steam baths. The Beauty & Wellness Residence offers innovative spa treatments based on international and Alpine healing traditions.

What makes us unique – Alpine . Luxury . Life: the highest level of genuine Tirolean hospitality – Luxury chalet-style Presidential Suite with private spa (205 m²) – 125 individually and lovingly furnished rooms & suites – Award-winning cuisine for perfect culinary experiences and 30,000 bottles of fine wine to take you on a wine-lover’s round-the-world journey – 1,500 m2 of relaxation and recuperation for body, mind and spirit, with the 3-floor Water World Venezia’s 10 different saunas and 16 treatment rooms for pleasurable relaxation with Alpine, Asian and oriental treatments Unique experience – The new James Bond movie “SPECTRE” has been filmed in Sölden Gourmet restaurant ice Q – operated by *****DAS CENTRAL – is probably one of the most spectacular buildings in the Alps. The focus is on an Alpine experience in a unique atmosphere, with regard to both nature and cuisine. The excellent menu incorporates fine produce from the Alpine area which, accompanied by select wines, is a real inspiration for gourmets. One very special wine is the PINO 3000, a full-bodied wine using grapes from three countries.

Package

What’s new?

Gourmet dining at Das Central:

Forthcoming:

Already completed:

– New private dining area in Restaurant Feinspitz for up to 40 people

– Renovation of the Venezia Water World (saunas and steam baths)

Gourmet half board with: – Luxury breakfast buffet, with organic selection, wide range of breads, juice bar, fresh egg dishes –

Fresh vegetables, vitamin-rich nibbles, dried fruit, nuts, herbal teas & juices at the health buffet in the spa

– Afternoon snack, coffee and cakes (in summer)

– Exquisite 5-course gourmet menu from our award-winning kitchen – 1 x weekly Gala Evening with a 6-course gourmet menu Additional: – “Ötztaler Stube” à la carte restaurant, with Alpine cuisine – Fondue evening in our wine cellar

– Redesign of the entrance, hotel lobby and reception area –

New, luxury, chalet-style Presidential Suite (205 m²), private spa, 2 bedrooms, living and eating area

– Renovation of some rooms 27

From lodge to lodge There’s one thing above all you need to bring with you if you are committing yourself to extended hikes: plenty of time.

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Trekking tours require a certain measure of fitness, and you certainly shouldn’t consider a multi-day tour unless you have done some training. In terms of equipment, you need both light clothing for good weather and warm clothing, such as a good anorak, gloves, a woollen hat and rain gear in the event that it turns cold. It’s equally vital to have a guide and good maps. But the most important thing is the shoes – medium-weight climbing boots and a sole with good grip are advisable. For overnight stays in the lodges, a sleeping bag is a good idea, and you should carry a towel too. There are discounted rates for members who stay in the lodges run by the Alpine Association (Alpenverein) or other organisations such as the conservation group “Naturfreunde”.

Smugglers’ Path, Montafon, Vorarlberg It’s an adventure tour through the unspoilt Montafon range in Vorarlberg – walking in the footsteps of erstwhile smugglers. Walkers also cross the Swiss-Austrian border, along genuine smugglers’ routes sufficiently off the beaten track for the smugglers to have hidden their contraband wares there. This walking tour is a true adventure (and one which crosses many borders) – for adults and children. www.montafon.at The Adlerweg (Eagle’s Route) This is a network of walking routes that covers the whole of Tirol. Its name derives from the shape of the routes, resembling the outstretched wings of an eagle. The main route runs from St. Johann in Tirol to St. Anton am Arlberg, in 23 stages. For that reason, it’s advisable to put together your very own Adlerweg using the various individual routes. For example there is delightful countryside on the multi-day walk between Stages 2 and 8, starting in the Kaisergebirge mountains and ending at the Achensee, Tirol’s biggest lake. Total length (main route): 280 km, 29,745 m, day stages: 23. www.adlerweg.com Salzburger Almenweg There are over 1,800 managed meadows covering a quarter of the area of the Federal province of Salzburg. Over 31 stages, the Salzburger Almenweg links 120 of these meadows and farms, many of which can provide travellers with specialities such as local milk, cheese, butter, quark, yoghurt, bread, bacon or home-distilled schnapps. Here, once again, it is advisable to put together your own personalised route. And even if it takes you past a multitude of alpine meadows and lodges, no two meadows or farms are alike. Overall length: 350 km, day stages: 31. www.salzburger-almenweg.at The Alpe-Adria Trail The Alpe-Adria Trail is a true long-distance trail, running from the high mountains to the Adriatic, whilst crossing three countries: Austria, Italy and Slovenia. It starts in Carinthia and runs from the highest mountain in Austria, the Grossglockner, via the Nockberg mountains and the Carinthian lakes, to Kranjska Gora in Slovenia, and from there on to Muggia. With 43 stages and 690 km of trail, it is not a route to be tackled in one go. The emphasis is on walking for pleasure.

Each stage features at least one ‘Magical Spot’, inviting the walker to stop for a while at a jewel in the landscape. Overall length: 690 km, 2,600 m, day stages: 43. www.alpe-adria-trail.com Wachau Welterbesteig, Lower Austria The Wachau region – one of the most beautiful natural landscapes in Europe – lies at your feet here. There are 14 stages to choose from along 180 km of the Welterbesteig. Walkers experience the impressive countryside, the region’s rich history and the unique mentality of the locals.

The walk takes you through picturesque wine-making villages and elegant Renaissance towns beside the Danube, and past the steep, distinctive vineyard slopes and numerous castles and churches. And you may well make a welcome stop-off in one of the ancient Heuriger (winegrowers’ restaurants), inns or award-winning restaurants. www.welterbesteig.at The Via Alpina, From Austria to Monaco The Via Alpina walking trail covers 5,000 kilometres and connects the eight countries in the Alpine arc: Austria, Slovenia, Italy, Germany, Liechtenstein, Switzerland, France and Monaco.

There are over 300 stages, reaching from sea level to 3,000 metres above sea level; the routes are always well-signed, leading past many shelters and typical alpine restaurants. There is no other walking trail on which the walker comes into such close contact with the (transnational) popular culture of the Alps. The Via Alpina is a special (European) cultural and natural heritage that extends across borders. Inspirational. www.via-alpina.org

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Brandnertal www.brandnertal.at

Germany

Italy

How to get there

Most important sites

www.brandnertal.at/en/arrival

Lünersee, Brand (summer): alpine lake with beautiful surroundings, easy to reach by cable car.

Nearby airports: Zurich, Friedrichshafen, Altenrhein, Memmingen, Innsbruck, Stuttgart, Munich Railway station: Bludenz Local buses from Bludenz to Brandnertal

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Natursprünge Path (summer and winter): themed hike where children learn about the wonders of nature.

Bürser Gorge (summer): The gorge reveals rare insights into the Earth’s ancient history and, with its almost primeval trees, is one of the most beautiful landscapes in the Alps. Weekly tours take place in July/August along this geological nature trail.

Hochplateau Tschengla (summer and winter): easy hikes with stunning views in summer and winter, visit the ancient stone circles or enjoy crosscountry skiing.

Bludenz Old Town, with its lively markets and festivals (summer and winter). www.brandnertal.at

Brandnertal

Photos: Alpenregion Bludenz Tourismus GmbH/Dietmar Walser/Christa Engstler/Bernhard Huber/Julia Rotter/Michael Marte

Contact Brandnertal Tourismus Norbert Konrad T +43 5552 30227 Mühledörfe 40 6708 Brand +43 5559 555 tourismus@brandnertal.at www.brandnertal.at/en

General description – Brandnertal: Charming holidays in Vorarlberg Rated as one of the most beautiful high-lying valleys in the Eastern Alps, Brandnertal nestles between the craggy Raetikon massif and the gently undulating hills of the Walgau. At the end of the valley lies lake Lünersee at the foot of mount Schesaplana. During summer, virtually any sport can be practised here, from archery to golf, tennis, horseback riding or angling. Lifts and cable cars whisk hikers or mountain bikers up to some 1,500 metres above sea level. Along the high-altitude trails, cosy mountain lodges welcome hungry, tired visitors with open arms.

Bikepark Brandnertal, Vorarlberg’s first bike park, promises thrilling downhill rides and exhilaration on the fun sports trail. In winter, the Brandnertal ski area caters to ski-loving families.

Winter hiking trails, several toboggan runs, snow shoe rambling tours and cross-country skiing trails keep boredom away. Explorers of any age can discover the Brandnertal in activities that cater specifically to families: the themed Natursprünge nature trail, the animal discovery trail, a wilderness day, ski courses, or the dog-sleigh riding school. Family-friendly accommodation and restaurants add to the attractions for families.

What makes us unique – Enjoying your holiday in the Brandnertal means having everything only a few steps from your door: from alpine hikes, to walks with your children in a pushchair, a charming ski area, or enjoyable toboggan runs – The heart-warming hospitality of the locals – High-quality restaurants which focus on local products – A combined ski pass which includes the Montafon ski area means 273 km of pistes within easy reach Unique experience – Sunrise hike to the Mondspitze (1,967 m) Beneath the sky we watch how the sun slowly lights up the surrounding alpine peaks. We see the sunlight touching soft meadows, dark forests, the small villages and rough rocks. This breathtaking view is worth every step up the mountain and even the first step – getting out of bed at 3 o’clock in the morning.

Unmissable events

Hotels

Alpine Culinary Street Food Festival, August www.bludenz.travel

Bergbahnen Brandnertal partner hotels: guests of our partner hotels and cable car company founding enterprises offer attractive discounts on the 6-day Montafon-Brandnertal ski pass.

Christkindlmarkt Bludenz www.bludenz.travel Klostermarkt Bludenz www.bludenz.travel Weizer Mulbratlfest, Bludenz www.bludenz.travel

www.brandnertal.at/en/partnerhotels

Great restaurants Our partner hosts in the “Family friends Brandnertal” group strive every day to make family holidays as enjoyable, playful and fascinating as possible for all family members. Special children’s cutlery, a selection of games for all weather conditions, adventures – these are just a few examples of services that our family friends have waiting for you and your kids.

Lovely huts and alpine restaurants up the mountain.

www.brandnertal.at/en/partnerhotels

Palüd exquisit: a torch-lit hike through the deep snow, combined with a gourmet midnight dinner in the ski area.

Different themed restaurants in the villages, from the traditional Wirts­ haus, to a Spanish-Austrian gourmet restaurant.

Genusserlebnis Brandnertal: five chefs offer a special 5-course dinner five times per year.

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Lakeland love affair Austrian bathing lakes are a fascinating natural spectacle in their own right... and places where you can enjoy the summer in all its glory.

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Switch off and enjoy, feel the power of water and enjoy the good things in life to the full. Leave your stresses and strains behind on Austria’s lakes.

Austrian lakes are a natural spectacle in their own right. The water is clear, clean, with an enticing sparkle and shades which range from Caribbean turquoise, via cerulean blue, to deep, fir-tree green. Think little coves, bathing jetties, belts of soft, green reeds and flowering water meadows at the lake’s edge.

They are practically an invitation to simply lie down on the jetty, close your eyes and soak up the sounds of Nature – the hum of bees and insects, the pleasant slap of wavelets on the shore.

Then it’s time to jump into the refreshing waters and when you emerge again, all your stresses and strains will have been washed away and your thoughts will be as clear as the waters.

This is why the Austrians love their lakes. They call this feeling “Seenlust” and there are many places where they experience it, even celebrate it, whether it’s at elegant, aristocratic Lake Wörthersee, romantic Lake Wolfgangsee, or unspoilt Achensee.

Or what about the border lakes of the Neusiedlersee or Lake Constance, known locally as the Bodensee, which lies on the border of Germany, Austria and Switzerland. It has a reputation as a cultural venue which exceeds that of any other lake in Central Europe, and it’s easy to see why, when the world’s biggest lake stage attracts top international artistes to the Bregenz Festival, when you can also get a definite feel for the inspired combination of fantastic natural setting, modern architecture, regional lifestyle and international culture.

Other places in Austria combine lakes with mountains, and link bathing to hiking, such as the Salzkammergut, where the Mondsee, Attersee and Traunsee are surrounded by peaks and mountain ranges which create a fantastic natural backdrop. The only problem is deciding whether to spend the morning sunbathing and swimming and the afternoon climbing the mountains, or vice versa, but that’s the only concern you will have here. That’s how carefree life can be.

Online www.austria.info Contains a list of all Austria’s bathing lakes and lots of tips.

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Alpbachtal Seenland Tourism www.alpbachtal.com

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How to get there

Most important sites

Closest airports: Innsbruck (50 km), Munich (150 km), Salzburg (150 km).

Museum of Tirolean Farmhouses in Kramsach – the biggest outdoor museum in the Tirol. www.museum-tb.at

Kaiserklamm & Tiefenbachklamm – impressive gorges in the Brandenberg valley. www.alpbachtal.at/brandenberg

Kisslinger Kristall-Glas Rattenberg – an important glass craft and glassblowing company. www.kisslinger-kristall.com

Alpbacher Bergbahnen – 2 funiculars provide a comfortable way to access the hiking trails around the Wiedersbergerhorn, Reither Kogel. www.alpbacher-bergbahnen.at

Closest railway stations: Jenbach (10 km) for international trains, or Brixlegg for local trains.

Lake Berglsteinersee Breitenbach – idyllic small lake with an excellent restaurant. www.berglsteinersee.com 34

Alpbachtal Seenland Tourism

Contact Alpbachtal Seenland Tourism Simone Fankhauser or Michaela Gschösser info@alpbachtal.at T +43 5337 21200 25

Photos: Alpbachtal Seenland Tourismus.jpeg; Ski:ing/Ski Juwel Alpbachtal Wildschönau

Zentrum 1 6233 Kramsach/Tirol T +43 5337 21200 F +43 5337 21200 100 info@alpbachtal.at www.alpbachtal.com

General description – the Alpbachtal valley is the essence of the Tirol Nine traditional villages and a historic small town form the basis for exciting, rural holidays in the heart of the Kitzbühel Alps and the Rofan range. Alpbach, with its unique, homogeneous style of wooden building, is known as Austria’s most beautiful village. The small medieval town of Rattenberg charms visitors with its picturesque pedestrian zone and glass craft. The four summer mountain lifts (two in Alpbachtal, two in Wildschönau), bathing lakes, museums, buses and more can be used free of charge thanks to the Alpbachtal Seenland Card (available free of charge from accommodation). A trip by mountain lift up the Wiedersbergerhorn mountain in Alpbach offers spectacular views from the easily reached peak. Water plays an important role in the region – whether on a walk through the impressive Tiefenbach gorge, or during a dip in the Tirol’s warmest bathing lakes. The gem that is the Alpbachtal Wildschönau ski region offers varied and charming skiing fun, with its 109 kilometres of pistes and 47 lifts.

What makes us unique – Alpbach – Austria´s most beautiful village, with its unique, homogeneous style of wooden building – Rattenberg – Austria´s smallest medieval town, with its picturesque pedestrian zone and glass craft – Prime year-round walking and hiking areas – Kitzbühel Alps, Rofan range, Brandenberg Alps and the Inn valley – Local customs and culture are a part of daily life – Ski Juwel Alpbachtal Wildschönau, a gem that guarantees snow from mid-December to Easter Unique experience – “Tirol pur” Hüttenjause The region’s best produce served on an authentic Tirolean Hüttenjause wooden platter, as used in mountain huts: Alpbachtaler Heumilchkäse (cheese made from cows fed exclusively on mountain grass), local smoked bacon, homemade bread and, to round everything off, a schnapps. This tasty snack can be found at the following partner huts: Böglalm, Farmkehralm, Wurmhof, Jausenstüberl Oberthaler, Pinzgerhof, Almstüberl Gschwendt, Holzalm, Hechahof and the Jausenstation Tiefenbachklamm.

Unmissable events

Hotels

Great restaurants

Rolling Oldies – Austria´s most beautiful veteran car rally. www.rollingoldies.at

Romantikhotel Böglerhof, Alpbach (4-star superior), www.boeglerhof.com

Böglalm Alpbach – one of the cosiest huts, right in the ski resort and ideal for a short walk. www.boeglalm.at

Alpbach Village Fête – the whole village turns into a fairground. www.alpbachtal.at/dorffest Transhumance/cattle drives and fairs in Reith im Alpbachtal. www.alpbachtal.at/almabtrieb

Hotel Alpbacherhof, Alpbach (4-star superior), www.alpbacherhof.at Hotel Wiedersbergerhorn, Alpbach (4-star), www.wiedersbergerhorn.com Hotel Der Kirchenwirt, Reith im Alpbachtal (4-star superior) www.kirchenwirt-tirol.at Hotel Pirchner Hof, Reith im Alpbachtal (4-star), www.pirchnerhof.at

Sigwart’s Tiroler Weinstube, Brixlegg – the best restaurant in the region. Traudi Sigwart is the only female cook in the Tirol who has been awarded two Gault Millau toques. www.tiroler-weinstuben.at

Restaurant Malerwinkel, Rattenberg – this restaurant’s architecturally charming blend of old and new is extraordinary. www.malerwinkel-rattenberg.com Gasthaus Kaiserhaus, Brandenberg Nice Restaurant (opened during summer) in a idyllic landscape.

Unique: Special “Prügeltorten” cake demonstration once a week. www.kaiserhaus.eu 35

Traunsee Holiday Region www.traunsee.at

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How to get there

Most important sites

Travel by train from Linz, Vienna or Salzburg: route 100 to AttnangPuchheim, change train to route 170, passing through the Traunsee holiday region (railway station in each town) – Bad Ischl – Stainach Irdning.

Gasselhoehle cave www.gasselhoehle.at The Gasselhoehle is the most beautiful cave in the northern Limestone Alps.

Traunsee water sports arena www.wassersportarena.at/en Diving, water skiing, wakeboarding, surfing, paddleboarding and sailing available.

Grünberg cable car and summer toboggan run www.gruenberg.info

Around the Wheel Motor Museum www.radmuseum.at Learn about the history of the wheel.

From Graz: via Selzthal to Stainach Irdning, change trains to route 170 to Attnang Puchheim via Bad Ischl to the Traunsee holiday region (railway station in each town).

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Lake Offensee and Lake Langbathsee Natural beaches and great hiking routes to explore.

Viechtauer Heimathaus www.heimathaus-viechtau.at Museum of rural life and crafts.

Traunsee Holiday Region

MTV Ferienregion Traunsee Bettina Supper supper@traunsee.at T +43 7612 64305

General description The Traunsee holiday region – in the middle of the Austrian lakes and mountains – is known as the eastern gateway to the Salzkammergut. The Alpine foothills picturesquely merge into the magnificent range of the northern Tirolean Limestone Alps. In the midst of all this splendour is crystal-clear Lake Traunsee, the deepest lake in Austria.

Toscanapark 1 4810 Gmunden T +43 7612 64305 F +43 7612 71410 info@traunsee.at www.traunsee.at

Not only a landmark in the Traunsee region, towering Traunstein mountain (1,691 m) also guards the Salzkammergut. The Totes Gebirge and Höllengebirge mountain ranges surround the Traunsee to the south and add greatly to the scenery’s impressiveness. The town of Gmunden, famous for its ceramics, and the three villages of Altmünster, Traunkirchen and Ebensee, are right on the shore of Lake Traunsee.

Contact

Each of these places has its own irresistible charm and individual character. Other lakes, such as the Laudachsee, Offensee, Langbathsee and Taferlklaussee, are among the most beautiful mountain lakes and are easy to reach. Here you can literally let the countryside soothe your soul.

Photos: MTV Ferienregion Traunsee

What makes us unique – Schloss Ort lake castle – Paddle steamboat “Gisela” – the oldest, still-operating steamboat in Europe – “Klo&So” Sanitary Ware Museum in the Kammerhof Museum – Gallery Schloss Weyer Meissen China Museum – Gmunden Ceramics Unique experience For 3,500 years the town of Gmunden has been producing handmade ceramics. The most popular and common design is the globally famous flowery green pattern. This traditional handicraft is perpetuated by small studios in the medieval old town and visitors can try their hand at it too. Apart from ceramics, visitors can also make chocolates by hand and try making various distillates. These experiences can be booked under “Handmade” and make a contribution to the survival of old handicraft skills in the region.

Unmissable events

Great restaurants

Hotels

The many events surrounding traditional customs, some of which have taken place for centuries, indicate how deeply these are rooted in the local culture.

Traunsee Innkeepers http://traunsee.salzkammergut.at/ en/detail/article/the-traunseewirterestaurants-1.html 16 “Traunsee Innkeepers” are dedicated to providing the highest quality.

Around Lake Traunsee there are some 250 hosts to look after visitors’ needs – from four-star hotels right on the lake shore to farm-based holiday accommodation, from holiday flats with their own beach to comfortable, self-catering lodges at 1,600 m.

Salzkammergut Fish Restaurants http://traunsee.salzkammergut.at/en

Hotel Hois’n Wirt**** www.hoisnwirt.at/en/

Traunsee sailing regatta and GC 32 Cup www.hafenfest.at Gmunden pottery market www.toepfermark.at Lake Castle Christmas market http://traunsee.salzkammergut.at/en/ winter/advent.html

Seehotel Das Traunsee****s www.dastraunsee.at/index-en.php Hotel Schweizerhof *** www.schweizerhof.cc/ City Hotel Esplanade *** www.esplanade.at/en/index.html

Hotel Bruderhofer *** www.bruderhofer.at/en/ 37

Vienna’s frothy blend of art Only superlatives will do to describe Vienna’s museums, which are the ingenious link between the splendours of history and fantastic modernism.

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The Leopold Museum at the MuseumsQuartier presents Modernist Art in an impressive way.

Admittedly, Austrians are sparing with the superlatives, but an exception has to be made for Vienna’s museums, because this is where you will find the world’s biggest collection of paintings by Breughel, the world’s biggest collection of paintings by Klimt, and Europe’s most important collection of graphic art. Vienna glows bright with many cultural beacons, as the famous and highly sceptical author and satirist Karl Kraus noted, when he said “The streets in Vienna are paved with culture, in other cities they are paved with asphalt.” It also becomes clear that the much-touted cosy Austrian hospitality may be part of people’s way of life here, but the city itself is not comfy and cosy – it is thrilling. It is particularly exciting to find different styles and artistic directions cheek by jowl, and this is what makes the museum scene so lively.

There are splendid, Imperial buildings, such as the Kunsthistorisches Museum and Naturhistorisches Museum (Museum of Fine Arts and Natural History Museum), with their impressive collections. There are surprising, modern structures, such as the bizarre MUMOK building which, together with the Leopold Museum and the Kunsthalle, form Vienna’s Museum Quarter – Europe’s biggest museum complex, which has been integrated into the Baroque Imperial Court stables. The true heart of the Museum Quarter is the extensive square, home to numerous bars and filled with people of all ages and nationalities. The Viennese call it an “urban living room”. The Albertina typifies the ingenious symbiosis of the historic and contemporary: the venerable palace, which houses one of the most important art collections, has been given a striking, futuristic flying roof by celebrated architect Hans Hollein.

The gold-leaf-covered roof of the Vienna Secession is just a few minutes’ walk away. The Art Nouveau building is home to Gustav Klimt’s splendid Beethoven frieze. As the name suggests, the Vienna Museum is very closely linked with Vienna. Its mix of artistic and historical collections trace Vienna’s history over the centuries. It also maintains historic properties such as the former homes of Beethoven, Schubert and Mozart. It’s hardly surprising, though, that a city like Vienna has a Coffee Museum, although there’s many an original to be seen in a traditional Viennese coffee house – and that’s just at the next table!

Online www.austria.info Information about museums in Austria and various exhibitions.

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Vienna PASS www.viennapass.com

Most important sites Germany

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Vienna is steeped in its Imperial heritage. Don’t be surprised if you think for a moment you just saw Empress Sisi and her retinue hurrying along the corridors of Schönbrunn Palace.

Discover not only Schönbrunn Palace itself with the Vienna PASS for free, but also the surrounding gardens – including the Privy Garden, Maze, Orangery Garden and Gloriette.

The neighbouring Schönbrunn Zoo is a must-see. Furthermore, there is also the Children’s Museum on the premises.

Don’t forget to taste a delicious piece of apple strudel at Apple Strudel Show at Café Residenz.

www.schoenbrunn.at/en/plan-yourvisit/tickets-tours/grand-tour.html www.schoenbrunn.at/en/things-toknow/gardens.html www.kaiserkinder.at/sprachen/ english.html www.schoenbrunn.at/en/plan-yourvisit/cafes-restaurants/court-bakery. html

Vienna PASS

Contact VPG Vienna PASS GmbH Ulrike Piringer upiringer@viennapass.com T +43 1 503 30 33 304 Rainergasse 1/5 1040 Vienna T +43 1 503 30 33 0 info@viennapass.com www.viennapass.com

General description Vienna effortlessly combines its traditions and heritage with a modern, urban way of life.

Follow in Empress Sisi’s footsteps through Schönbrunn Palace, visit the dancing Lipizzaner stallions at the Spanish Riding School and admire historical treasures and contemporary art in Vienna’s countless museums.

The Vienna PASS is an all-inclusive sightseeing card for Vienna and your key to an unforget­ table time in Vienna. The Vienna PASS has all of Vienna in one card. It offers free entrance to over 60 attractions such as the Imperial Palace and unlimited rides on the convenient HOP ON HOP OFF buses by VIENNA SIGHTSEEING TOURS. Fast-track entry at some of the attractions allows you to skip the queues easily. A high-quality guidebook, app and bonus booklet complement the attractive offer.

Photos: VPG Vienna PASS GmbH/Bernhard Luck

A ticket for Vienna’s public transport network can be purchased as an add-on. The Vienna PASS is available for 2, 3 and 6 days, a 1-day pass is available from April 2016. Children under the age of 6 get free admission, children aged 6–18 pay half price. The Vienna PASS is available online at viennapass.com, from the Vienna PASS Customer Service Centre, from Vienna Tourist Info points (City Centre, Vienna International Airport and Vienna Main Station), from many hotels and selected partners. Info and prices at www.viennapass.com.

What makes us special – Free entrance to over 60 attractions – no need to purchase separate entrance tickets – Unlimited HOP ON HOP OFF by VIENNA SIGHTSEEING TOURS – use the HOP ON HOP OFF buses to easily get from one attraction to another, simply by showing your Vienna PASS – Save time and skip the lines – no more queuing at selected attractions – Save money – with the Vienna PASS you save from the 4th attraction

Most important sites An insiders’ tip is the Schloss Hof Imperial palace, which is only an hour’s drive from Vienna (free transfer for Vienna PASS users from March– November with the HOP-ON HOP-OFF Grey Line). The former country seat of Prince Eugene of Savoy and later Maria Theresa and Joseph II forms part of Austria’s largest rural palace complex (50 hectares) and is definitely worth a visit. Free with the Vienna PASS. www.schlosshof.at/cms_neu/index. php?page=home_en

Through the centuries the Danube has inspired great composers, poets and artists. Whether you glimpse it from on high, on the old Giant Ferris Wheel, or from the futuristic Danube Tower, a view of the Danube is always inspiring.

Vienna is the city of music!

Discover the world of Mozart, Haydn, Beethoven, Schubert and Strauss and let your ears take a stroll through the amazing world of tone and sound phenomena – for free with the Vienna PASS.

www.wienerriesenrad.com/en www.donauturm.at/en/Default.aspx

www.hausdermusik.com/ www.mozarthausvienna.at/ www.wienmuseum.at/en/locations/ haydnhaus.html

www.wienmuseum.at/en/locations/ beethoven-wohnung-heiligenstadt. html www.wienmuseum.at/en/locations/ johann-strauss-wohnung.html www.wienmuseum.at/en/locations/ schubert-geburtshaus.html

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BEST WESTERN PREMIER Harmonie Vienna www.harmonie-vienna.at

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How to get there

Most important sites

Vienna airport: 20 km, 35 mins by car

The well-known Sigmund Freud Museum is only an eight-minute walk from the hotel. The address is Berggasse 19, this is also where Freud used to live and had his psychoanalyst’s practice.

Vienna main station: 6 km, 20 mins by car Closest subway station: U2 Schottentor: 8 min. walk

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The museum displays the life and work of the famous Austrian psychoanalyst, whose work helped shape and understand the world as we know it today (www.freud-museum.at).

Famous sights such as the Palais Liechtenstein (www.palaisliechtenstein.com), the RingstraĂ&#x;e (www.wien.info/en/sightseeing/ ringstrasse2015), and the Vienna State Opera (www.wiener-staatsoper.at) are within walking distance.

BEST WESTERN PREMIER Harmonie Vienna

Contact

Photos: Johannes Felsch; small Pictures: Stefan Eisend/Albin Niederstrasser/Johannes Felsch/Alpeniglu

BEST WESTERN PREMIER Harmonie Vienna Art.Boutique.Unique Mag. Sonja Wimmer T +43 1 317 66 04 71 s.wimmer@harmonie-vienna.at Harmoniegasse 5-7 1090 Vienna, Austria T +43 1 317 66 04 welcome@harmonie-vienna.at www.harmonie-vienna.at

General description The Best Western Premier Harmonie Vienna is family owned and operated. Harmonie Vienna was completely refurbished in 2013. General Manager Sonja Wimmer and her team have succeeded in creating a modern and artistic atmosphere in a historic Viennese Otto Wagner building. The new boutique hotel offers modern comfort, personal service and a visionary art concept. The art of Peruvian artist Luis Casanova Sorrola, called “Signapura”, is based on the traces of dance performances and captures the energy of soloists from the Vienna State Opera ballet in colour on paper. This energy transforms each of the 66 comfortable rooms in the boutique hotel into a unique art experience. If you want to experience an authentic Viennese quarter, our boutique hotel is located in the heart of the lively Serviten quarter. The Best Western Premier Harmonie Vienna is one of the first hotels in Vienna to hold three certificates for sustainability, allergy-friendliness and organic products.

What makes us special Our guests can enjoy a delicious breakfast buffet, including a selection of top-quality organic products from the region. Let us give you a taster - organic bread and fresh rolls from Viennese bakery “Felber”, or the daily freshly-made Harmonie fruit smoothie. We serve free Meinl tea and homemade cake, strudel or kipferl biscuits between 3.00 pm and 6.00 pm. The Best Western Premier Harmonie Vienna is one of the first hotels in Vienna to hold three certificates for organic products, sustainability and allergy-friendliness.

Unique experience The unique design features in the Harmonie Vienna are works of art by Luis Casanova Sorolla.

In his visionary art project “Signapura”, the Peruvian artist captures dance movements on paper. Luis Casanova Sorolla studied at the famous Academy of Fine Arts in Vienna. While the original picture is exhibited in the lobby, copies are displayed on each floor of the hotel.

Detailed extracts of those add to the elegant Viennese design of each room and transform it into a unique piece of art.

Special Package Harmonie Vienna – follow in the footsteps of the dance and feel royal on New Year’s Eve Our package will make New Year’s Eve relaxed, celebratory and very special, to create lasting memories.

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3 nights in our Superior room (30 m² including a comfortable sofa) Late check-out on departure day until 2.00 p.m.

Viennese breakfast in the room till 12.00 noon.

What’s new?

Per night in a double room: £95 per person Price per person, per night for sole occupancy: £189 per person Minimum stay of 3 nights.

Additional nights are available on request.

If you wish we can reserve entrance tickets for you to the Hofburg Vienna, for collection at the entrance.

66 comfortable Classic, Comfort and Superior rooms and Suites: Very comfortable beds with pocket sprung mattresses and toppers, shower or bathtub, rainfall shower, complimentary WIFI throughout the building, individually controllable air conditioning, gym, flatscreen TV, Sky channels in the room, non-smoking hotel.

Café: snacks and light dishes can be ordered from 11.00 a.m. to 10.00 p.m. in our Café; as an allergyfriendly hotel we are considerate of our guests’ food allergies.

Bar: complimentary tea time (Meinl tea and homemade cake from 3.00 to 6.00 p.m.), bar open till 10 p.m.

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Wien Holding’s Cultural Enterprises www.wienholding.at

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Wien Holding’s Cultural Enterprises

Contact

Photos: Klaus Pichler; small Pictures: David Peters/www.wulz.cc/Kunst Haus Wien/Paul Ott

Wien Holding‘s Cultural Enterprises Represented by Stalzer & Partner GmbH Alfred Stalzer pr@stalzerundpartner.com T +43 1 505 31 00 M +43664 506 49 00 Wien Holding Universitätsstrasse 11 1010 Vienna T +43 1 408 25 69 F +43 1 408 25 69 37 office@wienholding.at www.wienholding.at/ Geschaeftsfelder/Kultur-undVeranstaltungsmanagement/2

General description Vereinigte Bühnen Wien and Wiener Stadthalle are the flagships in the cultural management sector of Wien Holding. The two pillars of Vereinigte Bühnen Wien are musicals and operas.

Three theatres belong to the company: the Raimund theatre and the Ronacher are home to Vienna´s musicals, Theater an der Wien is the city´s newest opera house working under the stagione system. Wiener Stadthalle is Austria´s top venue for shows, events and concerts.

However, Wien Holding also runs four museums of international calibre: Mozarthaus Vienna, Haus der Musik, Kunst Haus Wien and Jewish Museum Vienna.

Mozarthaus Vienna – Mozart’s only Viennese apartment still in existence today, Haus der Musik – an interactive sound museum, Kunst Haus Wien with the Hundertwasser collection, and the Jewish Museum Vienna on two sites devoted to Jewish history, culture and tradition attract visitors from all over the world. Wien-Ticket, one of Austria’s largest ticketing service companies, also belongs to the group.

What makes us unique You will find everything at Wien Holding, from museums to musicals, operas and top international acts.

– Mozart’s only surviving apartment in Vienna at Mozarthaus Vienna – Museum of the Vienna Philharmonic in Haus der Musik – Excavations of the medieval synagogue at Jewish Museum Vienna – Museum Judenplatz – Largest Judaica collection in Europe at the Jewish Museum Vienna – Hundertwasser collection and modern exhibitions at Kunst Haus Wien

Unique experience Wiener Museumsmelange: discover the four Wien Holding museums with a special “Wiener Museumsmelange” combined ticket. Choose from four museums – Mozarthaus Vienna, Kunst Haus Wien, Haus der Musik and Jewish Museum Vienna – for a special combined price.

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How to get there

Exhibitions

Musicals

Vienna International Airport, Vienna main railway station (Hauptbahnhof), by private car.

Jewish Museum Vienna Stars of David: The World of Jewish Sounds – Jews and Popular Music (April – October 2016) Female Jewish artists from 1900 to 1938 (autumn 2016)

MOZART! A worldwide musical success returned to the Raimund Theatre in September 2015.

Haus der Musik Interactive sound museum and museum of the Viennese Philharmonics.

Evita The award-winning musical returns to the Ronacher Theatre in March 2016.

Theater an der Wien Vienna’s newest opera house.

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Schlumberger cellars www.schlumberger.at/en

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Schlumberger cellars Sparkling Experience

Contact Schlumberger cellars Benedikt Zacherl benedikt.zacherl@schlumberger.at Holger Hügelsberger (Export) holger.huegelsberger@schlumberger.at T +43 1 368 22 58 520-212 Heiligenstädterstraße 39 1190 Vienna T +43 1 368 22 58-631 kellerwelten@schlumberger.at www.schlumberger.at/en

General description – new era of wonder The Schlumberger cellars in Vienna: a fascinating mixture of history, tradition and innovation.

The magical place which puts the sparkle into Schlumberger. The know-how regarding the production of Schlumberger has been cultivated and constantly refined in this traditional Austrian company since 1842. It was Robert Schlumberger who brought this fine art, which is also used in the French province of Champagne, to Austria. He has learned the secrets of producing in the oldest sparkling wine cellar in France, at “Ruinart Père et Fils” in Reims, and returned with his newly gained expertise to Vienna, where fine sparkling Schlumberger has been produced ever since.

Reveal the secrets surrounding the “méthode traditionnelle” which originated in Champagne.

Try your hand at riddling the bottles and taste a variety of sparkling wines. Discover a wide variety of sparkling gifts in the shop as you taste a glass of Schlumberger sparkling wine.

We can help you to organise a sparkling lunch or dinner for a group of up to 80 people in our cellar vaults: an unforgettable and unique experience.

What makes us unique Austria’s oldest sparkling winery, with one of the largest networks of cellars, in the heart of Vienna. Discover the secrets of Schlumberger on a tour through the 300-year-old wine cellars.

Immerse yourself in the world of sparkling delights and taste this carefully refined Austrian wine. We invite you to take a stroll through the cellar vaults and join the grape on a sensory journey from vineyard to sparkling bubbles in the glass.

Photos: Schlumberger/Bildagentur Zolles KG, Leo Hagen

Gain insights into sparkling wine production using the champagne method. A special tasting following a guided (audio) tour will give you a whole new outlook on Austria’s sparkling wine know-how.

Unique experience – Special tasting package At your visit you will shake bottles on wooden racks, discover the secrets of “disgorging” and “dosage” and you will be introduced into secrets of tasting with some exclusive Schlumberger products. An audio guide means you can stroll on your own through historic production facilities and maybe encounter a riddler at his work.

Special tasting package: after your tour taste 5 different varieties of Schlumberger sparkling wine and discover your favourite.

Germany

Italy

How to get there

Most important sites

Catering

Vienna Airport/CAT/Underground line U4 (stop: Spittelau) – 45 mins

Schlumberger cellars as a special excursion tip during a trip to Vienna.

Outside catering partners available to provide lunch or dinner in our cellars; Schlumberger will assist with organisation.

Vienna train station/Underground lines U6/U4 (stop: Spittelau) – 30 mins

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Short Breaks It’s possible to really live it up, and chill right out, in just a few days.

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Gems of historic towns Historic little towns like Gmunden, Steyr, Krems, Radstadt, Schärding and Bad Radkersburg are steeped in charm and in no time at all it’s possible to immerse yourself in the history, culture and lifestyle of these special places. Their charm stems from the winding, narrow alleys, the many historic buildings, cosy taverns and small, award-winning restaurants. The local lifestyle might have something to do with it too – the inhabitants of these towns are genuinely proud to live here.

Their pride shows as they enthusiastically recount tales and legends about their towns as the sun sets, although they might just be tall stories. www.khs.info Wine walks The wine regions are the perfect place to get a taste of the Austrians’ joie de vivre. The idyllic vineyards, villages and cellarlined streets are ideal for exploring on foot, at your own pace – what the Austrians call “Wein-Wandern”, or a wine walk. The South Styrian wine route is just one such example. It’s a pleasure to stop off in the charming wine cellars and sample the superb Sauvignon blanc – as well as the view. www.austria.info A cycle ride Austria’s magnificent river valleys, such as the picturesque Wachau or the Danube cycle route in Upper Austria, are easily explored by bike. You can soak up the beauty of the scenery at your own pace, stop off along the way in a cosy inn and tuck into delicious regional specialities served by the welcoming landlords. Perfect for recharging your batteries in just a few days. www.austria.info/at/tags/radfahren Spa break Even a short stay at one of Austria’s many thermal spas will fill you with fresh enthusiasm for life because you can experience intensive rest and relaxation as you draw inspiration from the spas’ impressive architecture, from the surrounding unspoilt countryside and from the beneficial spa water. You can really lose yourself in the healthy spa baths or during a massage, you feel unburdened as body and mind achieves a balance that is easier to find than you might think. www.austria.info Holiday on the farm What a way to greet the day – with a beautiful alpine panorama which unfolds beyond the terrace and the smell of fresh bread rising from the kitchen. The famer’s wife has already made the breakfast and it is just what you need to set you up for the day before you explore the countryside around the farm and enjoy the many authentic experiences, as well as moments of absolute tranquillity. A farm holiday is carefree and a powerful experience. Ideal for short breaks too. www.urlaubambauernhof.at

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Austria’s Finest Experience Hotels www.austria.info/experience

How to get there Germany

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10 5 9 1 6 4 8 11 12 7 Italy

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Getting to the Experience Hotels from the UK generally requires airport transfers.

Guests can of course easily arrange to be collected from the nearest airport and although this might represent an additional charge, there are many low-cost airlines offering cheap flights from UK airports.

1 Biohotel Stanglwirt Going am Wilden Kaiser, www.stanglwirt.com

3 Das Central – Alpine . Luxury . Life Sölden/Ötztal www.central-soelden.at

2 Hotel Edelweiss & Gurgl Obergurgl www.edelweiss-gurgl.com

4 Gartenhotel Theresia Saalbach-Hinterglemm www.hotel-theresia.com

Photos: Romantik Hotel Im Weissen Rössl am Wolfgangsee; small Pictures: Alexander Lohmann/ Stefano Scata/Alexander Lohmann/Rudi Wyhlidal

Austria’s Finest Experience Hotels

Contact www.austria.info/experience

General description A small, but exclusive collection of hotels offering affordable luxury. It’s the essential way to experience life at its best and unwind in style. The selection of AUSTRIA’S FINEST Experience Hotels introduces resorts in the most fantastic locations – even those in cities. Austria is synonymous with nature: mountains or gently rolling landscapes, pure untreated drinking water in the lakes and mountain springs, uplifting panoramas and a silence broken only by birdsong.

The hotels tend to be built to a traditional design, using local Austrian pine, which has been found to lift the mood and increase sociability. A multitude of outdoor activities await and whatever the interest, experts will help to perfect skills or acquire new ones. An Austrian spa is an ideal way to give your body and mind a treat. Spa therapies often incorporate tried-andtested products made from local ingredients for effective, unique and unusual treatments.

What makes us unique Whatever the expectations of a holiday - AUSTRIA’S FINEST Experience Hotels will endeavour to exceed them.

– Premium quality hotels, full of traditional Austrian warmth and character, with excellent, value-for-money facilities and services, and staff passionate about creating a welcoming, relaxing atmosphere for valued guests – Personalised service means helping guests plan holiday activities and friendly, sociable hosts who chat with guests about the local heritage, or the wine you are drinking with dinner – Award-winning chefs use local, organic produce to create traditional and healthy restaurant menus – Eco-friendly hotels use carefully selected, natural and renewable building materials, following strict environmental regulations – Finest international spa facilities, exclusively staffed by highly qualified, experienced therapists, offering a wide range of medical, pampering and alternative treatments – A plethora of outdoor activities - hiking, Nordic walking, horse riding, mountain biking, golf and, of course, downhill and cross-country skiing. For the more adventurous, there is snowboarding, paragliding, kayaking, rock climbing or white-water rafting – Austria is an easily-reached, year-round destination. The Finest Experience Hotel is just a 2-hour flight away

5 Hollmann Beletage Vienna www.hollmann-beletage.at

7 Karawankenhof Thermal Spa Hotel Warmbad-Villach www.karawankenhof.com

9 Hotel Sacher Salzburg Salzburg www.sacher.com

11 Salzburgerhof Zell am See www.salzburgerhof.at

6 Hotel Kaiserhof Ellmau www.kaiserhof-ellmau.at

8 Romantik Hotel Im Weissen Rössl St. Wolfgang, Salzkammergut www.weissesroessl.at

10 Hotel Sacher Wien Vienna www.sacher.com

12 The Trattlerhof Bad Kleinkirchheim www.trattlerhof.at

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Festivals The Austrians know how to party, be it in the countryside or in the towns, with classical music, jazz, or contemporary dance.

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Classics in the city

Classics in the country

Salzburg Festival July to September

Bregenz Festival July/August

Klangwolke Linz, September

There is no doubt that Salzburg Festival is a global cultural event. Visitors to Salzburg are regularly enthralled by the masterpiece that is “Everyman” by Hugo von Hofmannsthal. The Salzburg Festival was held for the first time in 1920. The play performed in the square before Salzburg Cathedral, about the death of a remorseful rich man, always has a stellar cast. There is no doubt that the Festival has for decades been an unrivalled focal point for cultural encounters. www.salzburgerfestspiele.at

Bregenz Festival is an absolute highlight of the summer throughout Europe, with its spectacular lake stage and monumental opera settings. The artists’ performances are enhanced by a backdrop of lavish sets. The Magic Flute by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart will be performed from the end of July to the end of August. www.bregenzerfestspiele.com

The open-air concert is a breathtaking combination of contemporary music, dazzling lightshows and fascinating images. It creates an impressive spectacle in the city of Linz, bridging the gap between the famous composer Anton Bruckner and the innovative Ars Electronica Center. www.klangwolke.at

Classics in Grafenegg Lower Austria, June to September

Schwarzenberg Schubertiade Vorarlberg, July/August

Liszt Festival Raiding, Burgenland

Throughout the summer the global stars of classical music come together in the charming setting of Schloss Grafenegg’s grounds. www.grafenegg.com

It is the world’s biggest Schubert festival and this year has invited the elite from the world’s leading singers. www.schubertiade.at

The Liszt Festival is held in his birthplace of Raiding to honour Franz Liszt – the genius behind innovative piano music. With first-class international artistes and orchestras. www.lisztfestival.at

Erl Festival Tirol, June to August

Youth scene

Dance

Jazz

Styriarte Graz June/July Styriarte is one of Styria’s most celebrated festivals of classical music, which is why it is directed by famous conductor Nicolaus Harnoncourt. www.styriarte.com

St. Margareten Opera Festival Burgenland, July/August

Carinthian Summer Carinthia, July/August

The Tirol Festival is a highlight of the classical season at the futuristic Erl Festival Hall. Fans of Richard Wagner in particular will be enchanted by the operatic performances there. www.tiroler-festspiele.at

Festival operas are held in one of Europe’s oldest quarries, which is both one of Europe’s biggest natural stages and a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site. Giuseppe Verdi’s legendary Aida, one of the opera world’s most popular and frequently performed works, will be staged here. www.ofs.at

Glatt & Verkehrt Krems, June/July

Sommerszene city of Salzburg, July

Springfestival in Graz May/June

One of the country’s nicest music festivals, which combines original, traditional music with contemporary influences. It welcomes a host of musicians from all four corners of the globe. www.glattundverkehrt.at

Salzburg’s Sommerszene, or Summer Scene, is an international avant-garde festival featuring the latest trends in the theatre arts. The focus is on contemporary dance, but there are impressive additions from the worlds of drama, music, film and the visual arts. www.sommerszene.net

The city of avant-garde culture, Graz, is the perfect location for this impressive weekend festival of electronic art and music. www.springfestival.at

Tanzsommer Innsbruck June/July

Impulstanz Vienna July/August

Leading international dancers and choreographers stage fascinating performances, from classical ballet to acrobatic avant-garde dance, at Tanzsommer Innsbruck. www.tanzsommer.at

Europe’s biggest contemporary dance festival attracts renowned artistes from all over the world and for four weeks transforms Vienna into a massive dance floor. www.impulstanz.com

Jazzfestival Vienna June/July

Jazzfestival Saalfelden province of Salzburg, August

Austria’s biggest jazz festival offers a varied programme of music in different locations, such as the State Opera, the Museum Quarter and selected jazz clubs. www.viennajazz.org

The high-calibre Saalfelden jazz festival covers a range from contemporary jazz to experimental sound installations. www.jazzsaalfelden.com

The festival covers several events and spans a pleasing range of music, from ancient to contemporary. www.carinthischersommer.at

Online www.austria.info Information about festivals in Austria.

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Vienna

COFFEE HOUSE myAustrian flies me with award winning service nonstop to Vienna – home of the finest coffee and historical sights, like the Gloriette at SchÜnbrunn Palace. the charming way to fly

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