Situated 90 kilometers away from Salzburg and train-linked, Bad Gastein is one of the most famous spa towns in Austria. The town is located in the middle of the National Park Hohe Tauern free from fog, at one kilometer altitude, in fresh mountain air. The characteristic charm of this beautiful village plus the buildings from the “Belle Epoque” era, harmonize in the natural surroundings. This beautiful health resort with a unique ambience offers its visitors to relax and rest in clear mountain air, and perfect climate altitude. Also Gastein’s thermal water guarantees a very special holiday for sophisticated guests! Various sports and leisure activities are available for improving health and wellness in the well known Spa and Healing Gallery of the Gasteiner Thermal World. Attractive snow runs, cross-country tracks, covering all levels of difficulty and even more. The summer also offers great leisure experiences, while running and Nordic walking, or just strolling along the wonderful paths in and around the National Park Hohe Tauern. With a programme of various events, the resort ensures that its guests will receive great entertainment.
In the centre of Bad Gastein there are eighteen thermal springs containing radon, which are particularly well-suited to underwater therapies. And the Gastein steam gallery has proven its worth convincingly when it comes to healing qualities. The water with temperatures from 37 to 41.5°C and relative humidity of between seventy and almost hundred percent, combined with the high radon content creates a climate which is unique. Additional treatments here feature Gastein bitter water drinking, inhalation, mouthwashes and thermal fango. Conditions that can be healed here include: arthritis, asthma, rheumatism, morbus Bechterew, damage to the vertebrae and discs of the back, nerve inflammation, etc.
Another place not to be missed is the Gasteiner Museum. The museum keeps a great collection of minerals and provides interesting information about hunting and mining. Also there are exhibitions related to the local customs, like traditional wooden masks.
Nikolauskirche would be a place of great interest for historians. The church from the fifteenth century is regarded as a gem in the area of Bad Gastein. Especially worth seeing are the late Gothic frescos and the impressive baroque altar, both well preserved. In addition, in this church is the oldest stone chancel in Salzburg province.
Another great attraction for those who are interested in culture is the Pfarrkirche, which was built in the nineteenth century. The church houses art treasures created several hundred years ago, such as baroque and late gothic sculptures. An impressive example is the gothic wooden Madonna in the high altar, dating from 1450.
An excursion to the "Gletschermuhlen" is also worthwhile, where one can appreciate the natural beauty of the Gastein Valley. The renowned Gastein waterfall is a breathtaking subject for photography, which in addition is easily accessible in the center of the resort.
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