General Information
about Gastein Valley

The Gasteinertal  is the longest side valley of the Hohe Tauern Mounatins, world-wide known particularly because of its thermal springs. It borders on the Grossarl -, the Raurisertal as well as in the south on the Land Carinthia.

The three main villages of Gastein Valley:

Bad Gastein
Bad Gastein is situated in the middle of the National Park Hohe Tauern free from fog, at 1000 metres above sea level, in fresh mountain air. The characteristic charm of this beautiful village, the buildings from the “Belle Epoque” era, harmonise in the natural surroundings. An international health resort with a unique atmosphere - relax and rest in pure mountain air, combined with the ideal climate altitude, and Gastein’s thermal water, guarantees a very special holiday for sophisticated guests!
In Bad Gastein you will find the ideal offer for a holiday together with friends and family, even when there is a difference in interests. An exclusive holiday village with a sensational offer of relaxation and activity programmes which really cannot be beaten! Sports and leisure activities are an addition to improving health and wellness in the world famous Spa and Healing Gallery of the Gasteiner Thermal World.

Bad Hofgastein:
A vibrant, open minded village. Situated in the middle of the valley, gently imbedded in the idyllic surroundings of the Gasteiner Mountain world. Alpine friendliness with international comfort, varied sport and entertainment activities, fitness and wellness in the new Alpen Therme Gastein, as well as in the Health Cure and Rehabilitation Centre; aso offering a large choice of cultural events.

Dorfgastein:
A typical valley village: original mountain romance, adorable customs and friendly guest service coming from the heart. Offers for all sports fans - excellent paraglider and hangglider flying area – also fantastic walking and mountain biking areas – and for families. For our little guests our Children’s animations club “Pongi” makes sure of an action packed holiday. First class comfort in the new Solar Pool in Gastein. Enjoying nature completely on a wide range of easy walking paths, walking to nature’s places of energy.

Excursions/ Sites:            

- Gasteiner Museum in the Haus Austria in Bad Gastein, entrance Euro 3.- (children up to 14 yrs free). Every Wednesday a “Historical Walk” takes place in Bad Gastein with a visit to the Thermal Spa and the Church.
- The Montan Museum Bockstein
- Castle (Burg) Klammstein: old historical building (situated at the beginning) in the Gasteiner valley built on the Klammstein. Documentary evidence going back to 1272: was until 1524 responsible for the security and administration of the Gasteiner valley. Renovated in 1972 and now houses a museum.
- Weitmoser Castle, Bad Hofgastein.
- The “Entrische Kirche” (in a cave): A very special natural reminder. Contains dripstone, water cave also a dry one, with beautiful stalagmite, stalactite and limestone, first mentioned documentarily in 1428. Was used in the 16th century as a secret meeting place of the Lutheran Religion in the Gasteiner valley where they held services etc., Tour (approx. 50 mins.) from mid April till beginning of October.
- Bow and Arrow adventure course, at the Waldgasthof in the Anger valley.
- Organic Farm “Schmaranzgut” in Wieden/Bad Hofgastein – Austria’s first and only Organic Beer Brewery!
- Historical Rauchberg and Böcksberg mills, on the Gasteiner Höhenweg, a 10 minute walk from the Cafè Sonnberg.
- Anna Chapel: well loved destination with a wonderful view of Bad Hofgastein – built in 1800.