Travel Network

Nestled in the valley of the beautiful Hohe Tauern range of mountains, the town is best known for its majestic Gastein waterfalls and the array of hotel buildings under the Belle Epoque brand. This is the kind of destination where you simply enjoy the cool mountain breeze as you enjoy panoramic views of the region.

You will be thrilled to learn that ‘bad’ actually translates to ‘spa’, a factor that is reflective of the town’s past as a healthy town. This is attributed to the presence of thermal spas that touted to offer healing for different conditions. Today, there are numerous spa resorts for you to unwind. Check out the Felsentherme spa resort or enjoy the glorious setting that Alpentherme offers.

During winter, one of the most popular things to do in Bad Gastein is first class skiing in the Alps region. This is perhaps the best way to encounter the pristine wilderness on the mountain slopes. Nothing beats the thrill of wind rushing past your ears as you sweep down endless layers of snow downhill. This is an exhilarating thing to do, so look out for the winter sports if you visit in this season.

As aforementioned, Bad Gastein’s most iconic attraction is the Gastein Waterfall. At 1120 feet, the sight of water tumbling creating a misty appearance is simply glorious. Add to this the verdant green of the jungle and you are literally swept away into an enchanting getaway. The best place to enjoy these views and take photos is at the waterfall bridge, locally known as stone Wasserfallbrucke.

Alternatively, take a walk through the Gasteiner Museum where you can tap into the city’s history. Look out for information on the wondrous thermal waters of the city as well as the numerous works of art inspired by the gorgeous waterfalls. Other exhibits include the ancient tourism posters and paintings from the 19th century.

Austria has a host of religious attractions, and at Nikolauskirche, you will be rewarded with a glimpse into the Gothic lifestyle that characterized the religious individuals. The church features a simple yet magnificent floor, basic faded frescoes and wood shingles. This hidden gem is perfect for a day’s tour, so be sure to check out the ancient statue just outside the church.

Outdoor activities such as hiking in the alpine meadows, walking in Hohe Tauern National Park or visiting the mountain huts to interact with the locals are perfect for a great vacation in the town. If you are feeling up to the challenge, go cycling on the challenging MTB trails.

Whichever time you set out to visit, choose from any of the fun things to do in Bad Gastein. The best time to visit is between December and March as winter comes to an end, and summer begins, creating a beautiful backdrop against which you can enjoy a vacation in Austria and don’t forget to book a room at Villa Excelsior Hotel.