The Salzkammergut region

The legendary Austrian singer, actor and entertainer Peter Alexander put it perfectly when he sang "Im Salzkammergut, da kann man gut lustig sein" (roughly translated: "The Salzkammergut is a place of fun and laughter") in his 1960 film "Im weißen Rößl". That is just as true today as it was all those decades ago. So what's the secret? Simple: lush meadows, craggy mountain peaks and crystal clear lakes full of water clean enough to drink. Another key ingredient is the enduring love of all things traditional, from centuries-old customs to annual processions and celebrations. No wonder, then, that the Salzkammergut is lovingly known as "Austria's 10th province", with the country officially comprising nine provinces from Vienna and Burgenland in the east to Tyrol and Vorarlberg in the west. Holidays in the Salzkammergut combine action and adventure with rest, relaxation and fine dining. And there is no better base for exploring this beautiful region than the four-star Seehotel Schwan in Gmunden!