Kitzbuhel Austria

Bad Ischl is a town in Austria. It lies in the southern part of the state of Upper Austria, in the area known as the Salzkammergut. The town has a population of 14,115 (1.1.2004) and an area of 162.85 km². In this town lies Katrin Alpin Pasture. During the Austro-Hungarian Empire the town was the summer residence of Emperor Franz Joseph. It is located 8 km from Vöcklabruck, the Gate of Salzkammergut. On August 19, 1853 the engagement between Emperor Franz Joseph I and Empress Elisabeth of Bavaria took place at Esplanade No. 10, which is since 1989 used for Museum der Stadt Bad Ischl (1882 - 1982 was used for Hotel "Austria"). The Emperor Franz Joseph I built a villa named Villa Schratt in Bad Ischl for his mistress, Katharina Schratt. Franz Lehár, known for his operettas died in Bad Ischl.

At only 468 m altitude Bad Ischl with its 13.887 inhabitants combines noble tradition with fresh zest for life. Located by a mountain, by a river and near several skiing areas tourists can choose what to do: make a trip with a cableway, have a visit at the Emperor's Villa, the Salt Mine, the Operetta Festival or the Salzkammergut Gulf Club. Sporting at tennis courts, explore hiking or cycling tracks. Bad Ischl is the best-known health resort of the Salzkammergut region. Spa concerts and other musical performances are just some of the many cultural delights offered at the foot of the 1450 high Katrin mountain. Situated on the Romantikstraße Bad Ischl invites its guests to discover the environment. Make a trip through the Bad Ischl - Wolfgangsee region and discover the former summer resorts, pilgrimage trails, residences of the emperor and modern tourist facilities.

Take time and explore Lake Wolfgangsee on a horse-drawn sleigh ride. A fascinating winter scenery is waiting for you. Balloonists will find a paradise on Lake Wolfgangsee. Lake Wolfgangsee offers winter activities such as ice fishing, ice skating and alpine curling, Winter walks in the Bad Ischl - Wolfgangsee region are special. Stop for a snack in one of the numerous huts. Skiers can take advantage of the nearby "Katrinalm" ski area. There is also "Zwölferhorn" mountain in St. Gilgen or "Postalm" mountain (Europe’s second largest high plateau) in Strobl. Skiing fun for alpine, cross-country or backcountry skiers.

Luxury Hotels

Thermenhotel Bad Ischl
Hotel Goldener Ochs - Hotel
Goldenes Schiff Hotel