ViaMichelin Magazine

By destination

Austria

©CHUNYIP WONG/Getty Images Plus

Spectacular mountain landscapes, cherished traditions, a rich historical heritage, and major cities overflowing with creativity: at the heart of Europe, Austria makes a wonderful backdrop for an unforgettable road trip.

An Austrian adrenaline rush

People often imagine Austria — the land of Mozart, Freud, and Empress Sisi — frozen in time. However, that would be to paint an over-simplistic portrait of this land boasting a wealth of nature. From the romantic lakes of Salzkammergut to the forests of Bregenzerwald, from the Alpine peaks of Vorarlberg to the snowy mountains of Tyrol, Austria presents an array of hypnotic landscapes, blending grace and power.

The Gerlos Alpine Road, the Kaunertal Glacier Road or the Silvretta High Alpine Road: Austria has a host of roads offering a panoramic view. The highlight? Grossglockner High Alpine Road, the country’s most legendary pass with its 36 hairpin bends. Between photo stops, stretch your legs along the trails in Hohe Tauern National Park or visit the Krimml Waterfalls, which are some of the finest in Europe.

Picture-postcard settings

All of Austrian folklore accompanies you throughout your road trip: wooden chalets with flower-decked balconies, peaceful cows in the meadows, cities full of character to explore, looking up to examine the medieval and baroque details on the facades… It’s all irresistible! Make a stop in Salzburg, which still echoes with the music of Mozart, and Innsbruck, the capital of the Tyrol region that is a hangout for ski enthusiasts.

Also head for Melk to explore the romantic Wachau Valley, where castle ruins overlook the beautiful blue Danube. Recharge your batteries in Hallstatt, a charming village straight out of a fairy tale, which is reflected in the dark waters of the Hallstättersee. In the very south of the country, travel along the Styrian wine route: well away from the tourist hot spots, it reveals Austria’s unspoilt traditional side.

A journey spanning heritage and modernity

However, far from its picturesque image, Austria has an unmistakably contemporary outlook. You need only stop off in its major cities. Vienna, needless to say, which tops the list of the world’s most livable cities, for its prestigious heritage, warm coffee shops and boundless creativity. Not forgetting Graz, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, whose student community sets the pace of the city. Austria is also the ideal destination for art lovers, foodies and seasoned sports enthusiasts!