Discover the beautiful Salzkammergut, Austria's enchanting Lake District
Salzkammergut, Austria's Lake District, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring 76 lakes and numerous mountain peaks. It boasts a rich history of salt mining dating back to the Iron Age and has inspired artists and composers like Gustav Klimt and Strauss. Known for its stunning scenery, including the picturesque village of Hallstatt, the region offers a variety of outdoor activities, cultural events, and traditional Austrian hospitality, making it a perfect destination for both day trips and longer stays.
You may be familiar with the Lake District, England’s largest National Park, home to the iconic Scafell Pike, Coniston, and Windermere. But have you heard of Salzkammergut, Austria’s very own Lake District?
This UNESCO World Heritage Site features an alluring sweep of landscape east of Salzburg, mostly in the Alps. With 76 lakes and numerous mountain peaks, its sprawling karst plateaus and fractured glaciers rise above narrow valleys and lush, forest-clad hillsides. While the Lake District inspired the likes of Ruskin, Wordsworth, and Beatrix Potter, the Salzkammergut influenced the symbolic paintings of Gustav Klimt, scenes from The Sound of Music, and the beautiful melodies of Strauss, Schubert, and Brahms.
The Salzkammergut has a long and fascinating history of salt mining, which is reflected in its name, translating to ‘salt demesne’ or ‘salt domain.’ This history stretches back thousands of years to the highly organized salt mining of the extraordinarily rich Iron Age Hallstatt Period. Many centuries later, it became the summer residence of Emperor Franz Josef I, who managed the affairs of the vast Austro-Hungarian realms from here. The Dachstein massif and Hallstatt area are part of the World Heritage Site, while the Totes Gebirge mountain range is included within the boundaries of the Northern Kalkalpen Important Bird Area (IBA).
The Salzkammergut offers spectacular mountain scenery, quiet lakes, deeply carved valleys, rolling hills, and rugged mountain ranges. Hallstatt, nestled between Hallstatt Lake and the Dachstein Mountains, is particularly popular. Its picturesque pastel-coloured buildings make it Austria’s most photographed mountain-side spot. However, a short distance away, you can find quiet, uncluttered trails, wildflower-studded hillsides, and breathtaking views. The area is fantastic for walking, with a wide range of trails from easy lakeside strolls to challenging mountain hikes. Between hikes, you can explore ice caves, historic salt mines, mountain railway and ferry routes, scale the famous 5 fingers viewing platform, and enjoy Austrian food and hospitality.
In addition to its natural beauty and historical significance, the Salzkammergut hosts various cultural events and festivals throughout the year. Visitors can experience traditional Austrian customs, music, and dance, especially during events like the Narzissenfest (Daffodil Festival) in spring.
Austria’s Salzkammergut makes an excellent day trip from Salzburg but is also a fantastic area to spend a few days. It truly is Austria in miniature, embodying Alfred Wainwright’s description of the English Lake District: “a small piece of heaven fallen on earth.”
Walking in the Salzkammergut: the Austrian Lake District
30 walks in Salzburg's lakes and mountains, including the Dachstein
£16.95
Guidebook describing 30 day walks among the lakes and mountains of Austria's Salzkammergut. Easily accessible from Salzburg, the area is sometimes described as the Austrian Lake District. Routes range from easy lakeside strolls and walks to local points of interest to more strenuous through-routes and ascents of the neighbouring peaks.
More information
