Hallstatt is a small village on the western shore of Lake Hallstatt in Austria’s scenic Salzkammergut region. It is known for its 16th-century alpine-style houses, narrow streets, cozy cafés, and small shops. A cable railway takes visitors up to Salzwelten, one of the oldest salt mines in the world, which features an underground salt lake and the Skywalk Hallstatt viewing platform. Nearby, a walking path leads to the Echern Valley where you can see glacial potholes and the Waldbachstrub Waterfall.
places to visit in Hallstatt
Salzkammergut
Salzkammergut is a beautiful region in Austria known for its lakes, mountains, and resorts. It’s near Salzburg and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Some of its well-known lakes include Attersee, Mondsee, Wolfgangsee, and Traunsee, all known for their clean, clear water. In winter, the area turns into a paradise for skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and other winter sports, all surrounded by breathtaking alpine scenery.
Hoher Dachstein
Hoher Dachstein is one of Austria’s tallest peaks and part of the Northern Limestone Alps. It reaches around 2,700 meters and offers amazing views across Austria, even into Slovenia and the Czech Republic. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for its limestone caves and ancient fossils. It’s also a popular spot for hiking and climbing.
Hallstätter See (Lake Hallstatt)
Lake Hallstatt is a peaceful lake in the Salzkammergut region. It’s named after the village of Hallstatt, known for its salt mining history. The village sits between steep mountains and the lake, creating postcard-like views. It’s often called one of the most beautiful places in Austria.
Treppe ins Nichts (Stairway to Nothingness)
The “Stairway to Nothingness” is a viewing platform located near the Dachstein Glacier. It offers stunning views over Austria’s mountain ranges, including peaks like the Großglockner. On clear days, you can even see into Slovenia and the Czech Republic. The platform hangs over a steep drop, giving a thrilling experience.
Hallstatt Museum
The Hallstatt Museum shares the story of the area’s salt mines and early history. It displays important archaeological finds from the nearby Iron Age burial sites, which helped define the “Hallstatt Culture.” The museum, along with the salt mine and nearby caves, is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Dachstein Ice Palace (Eispalast Dachstein)
Deep inside the Dachstein Glacier is the Ice Palace, a magical world made entirely of ice. Visitors can walk through icy tunnels and see detailed ice sculptures, frozen columns, and a sparkling crystal dome.
Hallstätter Glacier
The Hallstätter Glacier is the largest glacier in the Dachstein area. It lies at the foot of the Dachstein mountain and flows down to the Eissee lake near the Simony Hut. It’s a remnant from the last ice age and a popular destination for nature lovers and families.
Hoher Gjaidstein
Hoher Gjaidstein is a mountain peak in the Dachstein range, standing at 2,794 meters. Hikers can reach it from the Dachstein cable car or the nearby Simony Hut. It’s a relatively easy climb and was first ascended in 1823.
Eissee (Ice Lake)
Upper and Lower Eissee are two mountain lakes in the Dachstein range. They sit at around 2,000 meters, close to the Gjaidstein peak. The lakes are located in rocky basins near the Simony Hut and offer peaceful views and scenic hiking paths.
Hallstatt Village
Hallstatt is a charming lakeside village in the Salzkammergut mountains. Its narrow streets and wooden houses are filled with cozy cafés and small shops. A funicular takes visitors to the ancient salt mine and the Skywalk viewing platform. Nature lovers can hike to the nearby glacier garden and waterfall in the Echern Valley.
Best Time To Visit Hallstatt
The ideal time to visit Hallstatt is during spring (March to May) and autumn (October to November). These months offer mild weather and fewer tourists. The scenic beauty is at its best with blooming flowers or colorful fall foliage. It’s a peaceful time to enjoy the village, lake, and surrounding mountains. Accommodation is also more affordable compared to the busy summer season.
