Omari Gates
If you're planning a trip to southwest Austria, you're in for a treat. The region is home to breathtaking natural scenery, including the majestic Alps, rolling vineyards, and the Rhine Valley. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Bregenzerwald offers hiking, cycling, and cross-country skiing trails. The small town of Feldkirch, nestled in the Rhine Valley, boasts medieval old town and castle, as well as the Buddhist Temple Tashi Rabten. Further south, the mountain province of Tyrol awaits, with its grandiose Alpine scenery and Innsbruck, Tyrol's main town. For those seeking cultural experiences, the historic city of Vienna beckons with its lavish palaces, coffeehouses, and Christmas markets. The Belvedere palaces, home to a vast collection of Austrian and international art, and Schönbrunn Palace, a Cultural World Heritage Site, are must-visits.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Location | Vorarlberg, western Austria |
| Attractions | Buddhist temples, medieval castles, sunsets by the sea, cosy historic small towns, majestic mountains, vineyards, wineries, old towns, and snow-white peaks |
| Specific Places to Visit | Tashi Rabten (Buddhist Temple), Stadtschrofen, Feldkirch, Karren by Dornbirn, Rhine Valley, Styria region, Vienna, Schönbrunn Palace, Belvedere palaces, Weinstrassen (wine roads) |
Explore related products
$20.88 $21.99
What You'll Learn
- Explore the historic town of Feldkirch, with its medieval old town and castle
- Visit the Buddhist Temple Tashi Rabten and hike the trail behind it for beautiful views
- Discover the majestic Dachstein mountains surrounding the Styria region
- Experience the grandeur of Vienna's palaces, coffeehouses, and Christmas markets
- Tour the wine roads of southern Styria, sampling wines and exploring rustic towns
Explore the historic town of Feldkirch, with its medieval old town and castle
Feldkirch is a beautiful medieval town in the Arlberg province of Austria, with a charming old town that is a must-see for any visitor. The town is known for its picturesque setting, cobblestone streets, and unique architecture. Here are some tips for exploring Feldkirch and its medieval old town and castle:
Explore the Old Town
Wander through the well-preserved medieval old town of Feldkirch, admiring the colourful domes and canopies of its ancient buildings. Take a stroll along the Marktgasse, the main street filled with local vendors, cafes, and restaurants. The Markt Platz is a particular highlight, surrounded by 15th and 16th-century townhouses and lined with charming cafes and market stalls. The old town is also home to the Gothic parish church of Sankt Nikolaus, with its green apex, and the town hall, both dating back to the late 15th century.
Visit Schattenburg Castle
No trip to Feldkirch is complete without exploring Schattenburg Castle, which overlooks the town. This imposing castle dates back to the 12th century and served as the residency of the Earls of Bregenz and later the Habsburgs for over 500 years combined. Today, the castle houses a local museum, offering visitors a glimpse into the rich history of the region.
Discover the Towers
Feldkirch is known for its historic towers, including the Katzenturm (Cat's Tower), which was built in the 16th century and once served as part of the defensive town walls. The Katzenturm is home to the largest bell in Vorarlberg and is considered one of the most important old town gates. Another notable tower is the Wasserturm (Water Tower), located by the river Ill. Take a walk along the river to admire the views and the Renaissance and Gothic-style Regional Court of Vorarlberg building across the water.
Enjoy the Natural Surroundings
Feldkirch is situated along the Ill River, a tributary of the River Rhine, offering a peaceful escape from the town. Stroll along the riverbank, taking in the fresh air and admiring the blueish water as it gently flows by. The river is known for its beautiful colour and the surrounding nature, providing a tranquil experience for visitors.
How Austria-Hungary Broke Apart From Prussia
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Visit the Buddhist Temple Tashi Rabten and hike the trail behind it for beautiful views
If you're looking for a peaceful and scenic experience in South West Austria, a visit to the Buddhist Temple Tashi Rabten is a must. This beautiful monastery, founded by Venerable Geshe Rabten Rinpoche, is nestled on a hill outside the historic town of Feldkirch in the western state of Vorarlberg. The temple boasts stunning views of the town from the front and majestic mountains from the back.
The building that houses Tashi Rabten, known as Letzehof, is an old manor reminiscent of old Europe with its sloping roof and rich timber interior. The spacious grounds include a wooded area and a forest, adding to the serene atmosphere of the temple. The temple is also situated near the medieval city of Feldkirch, which is well preserved and offers a glimpse into the past with its historical centre.
When visiting Tashi Rabten, you can participate in various activities such as prayers, tours, and even meditational stays. The monastery is under the guidance of Geshe Rabten's heart disciple, H.E. Gonsar Rinpoche, and has gained acceptance and support from the local community and spiritual seekers alike. It is a place where Dharma is disseminated for the benefit of all.
After exploring the temple, you can hike the trail behind it for even more breathtaking views. The trail leads through the wooded area and into the forest, offering a peaceful escape in nature. As you hike, you'll be treated to panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including the distant mountains. The trail is a perfect way to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of South West Austria while also enjoying a spiritual and cultural experience at the temple.
To reach Tashi Rabten and Feldkirch, most trains from Salzburg travel through Bavaria in Germany before joining the Inn Valley and climbing towards Innsbruck. This route offers a glimpse of Austria's grandiose Alpine scenery. Alternatively, a less direct but more scenic route from Graz or Zell takes you by the majestic Hoher Tauern, where you can see Austria's highest peak, the Grossglockner.
Seeking Liquor on Sundays: Austria's Legal Stance
You may want to see also
Explore related products
![Personal adventures of an Austrian officer in the Hungarian war of 1848 and 1849. 1851 [Leather Bound]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/81nNKsF6dYL._AC_UY218_.jpg)
Discover the majestic Dachstein mountains surrounding the Styria region
The Dachstein Mountains, locally known as Dachsteingebirge, are a mountain range in the Northern Limestone Alps. The range includes the Dachstein Massif, with its highest peak, the Hoher Dachstein, at 2,995 metres above sea level. The mountains are a true personality in the Austrian Alps and a place of longing for alpinists. The majestic mountains serve as a border between the Austrian states of Upper Austria and Styria and are one of the most visited places in the country.
The Dachstein Glacier, located within the mountains, is a popular attraction and can be easily accessed via a cable car from Ramsau am Dachstein. The mountain station, which can be reached by the Dachstein Südwandbahn cable car, offers panoramic views and attractions such as the Dachstein suspension bridge with the Stairway to Nothingness, the Sky Walk, and the Ice Palace. The glacier is open during both the summer and winter seasons, providing a unique experience all year round.
Ramsau am Dachstein, Schladming, and Filzmoos are the best hubs for adventure in the area. Schladming is easily accessible from Vienna by train, with the fastest route taking around 3 hours and 30 minutes. During the summer season, many accommodations in the region offer their clients a free Schladming Summer Card, enhancing the overall experience.
The journey to the Dachstein Mountains from the southeastern side, through Styria, offers a different perspective on these majestic mountains. The Enns Valley, with its regional trains, provides a convenient way to explore the area and discover the surrounding natural beauty. The Dachstein Mountains are bordered by other mountain ranges, including the Totes Gebirge to the northeast and the Rottenmanner und Wölzer Tauern and the Niedere Tauern to the south, creating a diverse and captivating landscape.
Austria's Army: A Battle Against Itself
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Experience the grandeur of Vienna's palaces, coffeehouses, and Christmas markets
Vienna, the capital of Austria, is a city steeped in imperial history, stunning architecture, and a vibrant coffeehouse culture. When visiting southwest Austria, experiencing the grandeur of Vienna's palaces, coffeehouses, and Christmas markets is a must. Here is a guide to help you make the most of your time in this enchanting city:
Palaces of Vienna
Schönbrunn Palace is one of the main attractions in Vienna. This Baroque palace, with its magnificent gardens, offers a glimpse into the city's imperial past. The Dutch Botanical Garden, the Palm House, and the former imperial court stables are all part of the Schönbrunn complex. Explore the Sisi Museum, the Imperial Apartments in the Vienna Hofburg, and the Vienna Furniture Museum to learn more about the imperial family's lavish lifestyle. Belvedere Palace, with its beautiful baroque architecture, is another must-see.
Coffeehouse Culture
Vienna is renowned for its coffeehouse culture, which has been a significant part of the city's social and intellectual life. These coffeehouses offer a unique atmosphere where you can relax and immerse yourself in the local culture. Café Jelinek, located off the beaten path, is a favourite among locals and known for its cozy ambiance and delicious homemade cakes. The coffeehouse in Philharmoniker Strasse, opened in 1880, exudes Edwardian refinement and has hosted archdukes, generals, artists, and actors. Hawelka, made famous by Georg Danzer's song "Jö Schau," has welcomed celebrities like Andy Warhol and Pop legend Falco.
Christmas Markets
Vienna's Christmas markets are an age-old tradition, dating back to the 13th century. Today, the city boasts over 20 official Advent markets, each with its unique charm. The Viennese Dream Christmas Market in front of the City Hall is a highlight, with its delightful aromas and children's activities. The Christmas Village Belvedere Palace, set against the backdrop of the baroque residence, offers handcrafted goods and special culinary treats. The Christmas Market at Spittelberg, a revitalized heritage district, features objets d'art, ceramics, and jewellery. The Christmas Village Campus University of Vienna, with its traditional Viennese atmosphere, is also worth visiting for its beautifully designed stalls and delicious Glühwein.
Serbia's Ultimatum: Austria's 10 Demands that Sparked World War I
You may want to see also
Explore related products
$49.28 $77.99
Tour the wine roads of southern Styria, sampling wines and exploring rustic towns
Touring the wine roads of Southern Styria is a must-do when in southwest Austria. The region, also known as Südsteiermark, is located in the southernmost area of Steiermark (Styria), one of the largest regions in Austria. The area is lush and green, with rolling vineyards and quaint buschenshanks (wine taverns) dotted along the way. The food and wine culture here is vibrant and should be on every food lover's bucket list.
The South Styrian Wine Road, located near the city of Graz, runs from Ehrenhausen to Leutschach. The route passes by countless vineyards, taverns, quaint villages, meadows, and lush forests. The wine route can be explored by car, e-bike, or even on foot. The self-guided drive through the wine region is easygoing, and people are friendly and happy to chat and answer questions.
There are numerous rustic wine taverns and traditional wineries along the South Styrian Wine Road where you can sample world-renowned white wines, such as the famous Schilcher. The taverns are a great place to mingle with the locals and enjoy some wine and food, including cheese, meat, and vegetable platters. Some recommended buschenshanks include Kögl in Ratsch an Weinstrasse and Erika's near Gamlitz.
The South Styrian Wine Road also offers access to nearby Gamlitz, the Heart-Shaped Road, and the border of Slovenia. Spring and fall are the best times to visit, with an abundance of food festivals and wine events. The region is also ideal for hikes, with many trails and country lanes to explore and places to stop for a rest, drink, or meal.
The city of Graz, Styria's provincial and culinary capital, is a must-visit with its historic roads, lanes, squares, and courtyards. The city is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a City of Design.
Creditanstalt Bank Failure: Prelude to the Great Depression
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
Some popular attractions in South West Austria include the Buddhist Temple Tashi Rabten, the town of Feldkirch, and the mountain Karren by Dornbirn.
In South West Austria, you can go hiking, skiing, and cycling in the Bregenzerwald. You can also visit the Weinlesefest (wine harvest festival) in September, which is held in the wine region of Styria.
Although not specific to South West Austria, roasted chestnuts and mulled wine are popular dishes during the Christmas season.
Some popular landmarks in Austria are the Belvedere palaces, Schönbrunn Palace, and Vienna's historic centre, which is known for its Baroque castles and gardens.
Some popular natural landmarks in Austria are the Tyrolean Alps, the Rhine Valley, and the Dachstein mountains.
