The very name of Austria conjures up images of snow-capped mountains, beautiful architecture and, of course, the music of Mozart, Haydn and Strauss. While many travelers just hit the hotspots of Vienna and Salzburg, there are many wonderful villages and towns waiting to be discovered by travelers. There’s plenty to do and see in Austria, and here are some of the top places to stay — all winners of Karen Brown’s annual Readers’ Choice Awards.
Ranked by readers at KarenBrown.com as Austria’s Most Romantic lodging is Schloss Kapfenstein. Perched atop a hillside and offering expansive views of the surrounding hills, this Kapfenstein, Austria, castle hotel was once a fortress. The innkeepers raised their family here, then transformed their castle into a romantic hotel. You’ll find spacious guest rooms, including intimate suites in the gate keeper’s quarters and in the castle tower. The innkeepers’ son serves as executive chef, preparing the delicious food, In the summer, meals are often served on tables outside where guests can enjoy the wonderful views. The grounds include a vineyard that has produced award-winning vintages.
Landhaus Zu Appesbach in Saint Wolfgang is another charming KarenBrown.com award winner. This ivy-covered manor is the recipient of the Readers’ Choice Award for the Warmest Welcome, and you will enjoy no shortage of hospitality. Like most destinations in Austria, there is no shortage of beauty, either. Woodlands and expansive lawns decorate the acreage, and the hotel looks out to a stunning lake with the hills behind. There is even a pier and swimming dock. Many of the twenty-seven guest rooms include a balcony or deck with a lake view. There are plenty of places to relax, including a drawing room, a cozy bar or perhaps on the veranda. Your host, Maximilan, sets the gold standard for Austrian innkeepers. His hospitality is unparalleled.
If you want to pack all the Austrian charm possible into a more affordable hotel, try the Hotel Wolf. This Salzburg hotel won our 2007 Readers’ Choice Award as Austria’s greatest value. The hotel is located in the center of Old Salzburg, and the family-owned lodging offers a variety of charming and comfortable rooms. An expansive breakfast buffet is served each morning. Best of all, the hotel’s location can’t be beat. Many of Salzburg’s most popular attractions are just minutes away.
If its luxury and romance you crave, Salzburg’s Hotel Goldener Hirsch is sure to fit the bill. Rated by KarenBrown.com readers as Austria’s best Splendid Splurge, the hotel features a variety of individually decorated guest rooms. Many of the furnishings are antiques. Within the hotel, you’ll find a bar and a restaurant that serves traditional Austrian cuisine.
Whatever cities or regions you choose, Austria has something special for everyone. You might try hitting the highlights of Austria with a tour that begins in Salzburg and journeys by car or rail to Vienna with plenty of interesting stops in between. Perhaps you wish to visit the southern lakes or enjoy the fresh, clean air and scenery on a trip to various mountain villages. Be sure to pack good walking shoes, a camera and your sense of adventure. Check out our downloadable itineraries for more information about itineraries in Austria.
