Encompass the World: Austria - The Hills Are Alive

While people in dirndl and lederhosen may be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Austria, this European nation has so much more to offer. From its absolutely beautiful mountain scenery to its world renowned food, such as Wiener Apfelstrudel and Wiener Schnitzel, Austria i spectacularly diverse. There are numerous wine regions in the country, such as in Vienna, which is the ‘only world capital with a significant wine production within it's city limits’.

However, today there will be a spotlight on the Austrian city of Salzburg.

Situated on the German border, Salzburg, the ‘Stage of the World’, is the birthplace of Mozart the famous classical composer, and is an Austrian cultural centre, home to many historical sights, the Salzburg Marionette Theatre, numerous museums, and around 4,000 cultural events, such as the Salzburg Jazz Festival.

However, the city is most famous for its featuring as the location in the 1965 musical film, ‘The Sound of Music’, which contributes to 70% of overseas visitors to the city. There are numerous tours around Salzburg showcasing the sites at which scenes of the movie where filmed, including singing tour guides, bicycle tours, horse drawn carriage guides or original bus tour.

Take a look at the list below of sites frequently visited by such tours and their relation to the film
• Leopoldskron Palace - Residence of the Von Trapps in the film, accommodation available
• Frohnburg Palace - Residence of the Von Trapps in film

Gazebo in the film at Helbrunn Palace

http://www.edelweisspatterns.com/blog/?p=293

• Hellbrunn Palace and grounds - Gazebo in ‘Sixteen Going on Seventeen’ and ‘Something Good’
• Nonnberg Abbey Benedictine Monastery - Convent in the film
• Mozart Bridge - ‘Do Re Mi’
• Mirabell Palace and Gardens - ‘Do Re Mi’
• Hedge Maze & Gnome Park - ‘Do Re Mi’
• Werfen Picnic Meadow - ‘Do Re Mi’
• Residence Square and Fountain - ‘I Have Confidence’
• Felsenreitschule - Salzburg Festival scene
• Villa Trap - The Original Sound of Music Family Home, accommodation available

Book a tour for yourself! http://www.salzburg.info/en/sights/guided_tours/tours_from_salzburg/sound_of_music

Austria receives snowfall from October to May, making it a haven for winter sports. The nation is a perfect place to go to relax or partake in activities such as cycling, walking and hiking, with April to October being the best time to do so, whilst taking in the idyllic views

So go and experience Austria for yourself!

- Emily

http://www.austria.info/au

http://www.salzburg.info/en/