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Nestled in the Austrian Alps, Hallein is a charming historical town brimming with attractions. Once a hub for salt mining, Hallein now offers a range of activities, from exploring the oldest salt mine in the world to admiring the breathtaking Alpine landscape. The town is also steeped in musical history, being the birthplace of the iconic Christmas carol Silent Night. Hallein's restaurants and cafes, such as the fairy-tale-like Hohlwegwirt, offer Austrian specialities and delightful dining experiences. With its proximity to Salzburg and the German Alps, Hallein serves as a gateway to endless adventures. Whether you're a history buff, nature enthusiast, or simply seeking a delightful getaway, Hallein awaits your discovery.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Salt Mines | Hallein is home to the oldest salt mine in the world, located in Bad Durrnberg. The mine is a fun and educational experience for families, groups, and school classes. |
| Tobogganing | The Keltenblitz, located near Bad Durrnberg, offers a 2.2-km-long toboggan run, the longest in Salzburg. It provides fun and excitement for all ages. |
| Museums | Hallein boasts unique museums such as the Kelten Museum, dedicated to the history of the Celts, and the Gruber Museum, which showcases the life and work of composer Franz Xaver Gruber, famous for "Silent Night." |
| Restaurants | The Hohlwegwirt restaurant, owned by the Kronreif family, serves regional fish dishes and Austrian specialties in a charming, fairy-tale-like setting. |
| Hiking | Surrounded by immense Alpine landscapes, Hallein offers some of the finest hiking opportunities in the region. |
| Scenery | The panorama from Zinkenkogel provides a breathtaking view of Salzburg, Untersberg, Dachstein, and beyond. |
What You'll Learn
Visit the Hallein Salt Mine
The Hallein Salt Mine, also known as the Salzburg Salt Mine or Salzbergwerk Dürrnberg, is a fantastic attraction for visitors of all ages. Located in the Dürrnberg plateau above Hallein, the mine has been worked for over 2600 years, dating back to the time of the Celtic tribes. With its rich history, the Hallein Salt Mine is a must-visit when in the area.
When visiting the Hallein Salt Mine, you will be immersed in the world of salt mining and the story of salt. The mine offers a unique journey through time, allowing you to experience four epochs of human history and salt production. You will be provided with white miners' overalls to protect your clothes as you explore the ancient tunnels. The mine is accessible via a 400-metre electric train ride, which takes you deep into the mountain.
One of the most exciting features of the Hallein Salt Mine is the long wooden slides between levels. Visitors can straddle two wooden rails and slide down to the lower levels, adding an element of adventure to the experience. The mine also includes a subterranean border crossing between Austria and Germany, giving visitors a unique opportunity to explore the geological connection between the two countries.
In addition to the slides and train ride, the Hallein Salt Mine offers a variety of other attractions. You can ride on a mine train, explore the authentic replica of the SALINA Celtic Village, and even take a boat trip across an underground lake. The mine also has a restaurant, Salzblick, serving delicious meals with stunning views. Before or after your visit, be sure to download the Salzwelten app, which provides additional digital content and an audio guide to enhance your experience.
The Hallein Salt Mine is located south of Hallein in Bad Dürrnberg and can be reached via public transit from the Hallein Train Station. It is recommended to wear warm clothing and sturdy shoes, as the temperature inside the mine is cool, and the ground is stony. With its combination of history, adventure, and interactive elements, the Hallein Salt Mine promises an educational and entertaining experience for all ages.
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Explore the Keltenblitz mountain range
Hallein, a town in western Austria, is known for its Alpine landscape and its rich history in the salt mining industry. One of the most exciting attractions in Hallein is the Keltenblitz mountain range, which offers stunning scenery and fun activities for all ages. Here is a guide to help you explore this range:
Getting to Keltenblitz
The Keltenblitz mountain range is located just south of Hallein, near Bad Durrnberg. It is easily accessible by a 15-minute chairlift ride from the Durrnberg-Landes Strabe, offering a fun and scenic way to reach the top. The chairlift takes off from the valley station, found near the car park of the Zinkenkogel lifts.
Activities and Attractions
The Keltenblitz mountain range boasts a 2.2-kilometre-long toboggan run, known as the Keltenblitz Alpine Slide. This exhilarating ride allows you to control your speed as you navigate exciting curves and steep slopes. The slide is suitable for both adults and children, with children as young as six being able to ride on their own. The Alpine slide is the longest in the province and offers a breathtaking view of the Salzach River Valley and the surrounding mountains.
In addition to the thrilling toboggan experience, the mountain range also provides awe-inspiring views of the surrounding countryside. On a clear day, you can even see across the border into neighbouring Germany. If you're looking for a place to relax and enjoy the scenery, there is a restaurant and café at the top of the mountain, offering refreshments and snacks.
Nearby Attractions
After exploring the Keltenblitz mountain range, you can visit the idyllic spa town of Bad Dürrnberg, located below the summit of the 1337-metre-high Zinkenkogel mountain. Here, you can unwind and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the spa, or explore other nearby attractions such as the Salzburg Salt Mine in Hallein, the oldest mine in the world open to visitors. For those interested in history and music, the Kelten Museum and the Gruber Museum are unique attractions dedicated to the composer Franz Xaver Gruber and his famous Christmas carol, "Silent Night".
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Tour the Silent Night Museum
The Silent Night Museum in Hallein is dedicated to the life and works of Franz Xaver Gruber, who composed the Christmas carol "Silent Night" with Joseph Mohr in 1818. The museum is located in the former sexton's and choirmaster's house, where Gruber lived and worked for 28 years. It is a handicapped-accessible site, with barrier-free access.
The museum offers a wealth of information about Gruber and his contributions to music. On display are original manuscripts, documents, and furniture that provide insight into the life of this teacher and composer. Visitors can learn about the creation of the iconic Christmas song "Silent Night" and its journey to worldwide popularity. The museum also exhibits personal belongings of Gruber, including the guitar he first used to play the tune.
The Silent Night Museum is situated in the heart of Hallein, just a short walk from the Church of Saint Anthon. Across from the museum is the Hallein Parish Church, which held significant importance in Gruber's life and work. Lying in front of the museum is the composer's grave, which is tenderly maintained throughout the year. On December 24 at 5 PM, people from around the world gather here to participate in an annual event called "Singing at the Gruber Grave".
The town of Hallein itself is steeped in history, boasting a rich past related to the salt mine industry and Celtic heritage. The surrounding Alpine landscape offers breathtaking views and excellent hiking opportunities. With its proximity to Salzburg and the German Alps, Hallein serves as a convenient base for exploring the region's attractions.
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Hike the Alpine landscape
Hallein is a small town in the Austrian Alps, just south of Salzburg. Surrounded by immense Alpine landscapes, it offers some of the finest hiking opportunities in the region. With its close proximity to both Salzburg and the German Alps, the possibilities for hikers in Hallein are endless.
There are more than 400 marked hiking routes in Hallein, which are suitable for beginners and experienced hikers alike. All the routes are well-marked, with the distance and difficulty mentioned, so you can choose the best trail for you. The routes take in amazing views of the Alps and the green fields of the surrounding countryside, and you can even see across into neighbouring Germany.
The Keltenblitz mountain range, located just south of Hallein, is accessible by a chairlift and offers some amazing scenery. Once at the top, you can enjoy the awe-inspiring views, as well as a restaurant and café, and a toboggan slide. The slide takes the form of a rollercoaster and snakes down the side of the mountain, with riders able to control their speed using a handbrake.
The Barmsteins are another option for hikers, as they are actively used for mountain climbing, with walls that fall directly down from the very top. They rise right next to the old town of Hallein, so they are easily accessible. Hallein is also only half an hour away from Campus Urstein by foot, and two stops by train, so it is a great base for hikers.
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Dine at the Hohlwegwirt restaurant
If you're looking for a charming and beautiful restaurant in Hallein, look no further than the Hohlwegwirt restaurant. This delightful dining establishment has been owned by the Kronreif family for 140 years and is known for its regional cuisine and welcoming atmosphere.
The building's fairy-tale-like exterior, covered in greenery and plants, sets the tone for a unique culinary experience. Hohlwegwirt specialises in homemade pasties and fresh, local fish dishes, showcasing the best of Austrian cuisine. The restaurant is also just a stone's throw away from the Silent Night Museum, the Kelten Museum, and the beautiful old town centre of Hallein, making it the perfect spot to relax and unwind after a day of sightseeing.
The Hohlwegwirt restaurant is located in the western part of Hallein, a short walk from the Silent Night Museum and the Church of Saint Anthon. The restaurant is easily accessible, just 10 kilometres south of Salzburg and a quick 10-minute drive to the city centre. Surrounded by a well-maintained garden, diners can enjoy stunning views of the Salzburger Hausberg and Untersberg while savouring the delicious food and warm hospitality.
The restaurant is known for its regional specialities, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. Diners can indulge in a variety of Austrian dishes, including the renowned local fish, all while enjoying the friendly and relaxed atmosphere that the Kronreif family has cultivated for generations. The restaurant's reputation extends beyond the borders of Salzburg, attracting visitors from near and far.
In addition to its culinary delights, the Hohlwegwirt also offers a glimpse into the region's history. The restaurant is located near several notable attractions, including the Salzburg Salt Mine, the oldest mine in the world open to visitors, and the Keltenblitz mountain range, which offers breathtaking views and a thrilling toboggan slide. With its combination of delectable cuisine and proximity to cultural landmarks, the Hohlwegwirt restaurant is a must-visit destination when exploring all that Hallein has to offer.
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Frequently asked questions
Some popular attractions in Hallein include the Hallein Salt Mine, the Kelten Museum, and the Church of Saint Anthon.
The Hallein Salt Mine is one of the oldest salt mines in the world. It is located in Bad Dürrnberg, south of Hallein, and offers fun entertainment for families, including a treasure hunt and a mysterious tunnel that leads into a mountain.
Hallein is located near the German Alps and Salzburg, so there are endless possibilities for day trips. The Keltenblitz Mountain is a popular attraction that offers amazing scenery, a restaurant and café, and a toboggan slide.
