Hallstatt

Another beautiful waterside village recently visited is Hallstatt in Austria.  There are traces of human habitation there dating back 7000 years.  Hallstatt is now a UNESCO World Heritage site and because it is situated on a very narrow piece of land between the lake and the mountains, acess is restricted.  Vehicular access is through a tunnel which brings you into Hallstatt Lahn and you then need a sworn affidavit that you have hotel accommodation booked to be given access to Hallstatt Markt, via a very narrow little street.

The name Hallstatt is thought to be derived from the Celtic word “hal” meaning salt. This is the origin of the region’s wealth and its name – the Salzkammergut.  The salt mine is located on the mountain immediately behind the village and is now open to the public. The caves there were where early inhabitants lived. The Hallstatt era in Celtic studies is between 800 and 400 BC.  The subterranean saline lake is another attraction in what is described as “the world’s oldest salt mine”.  The salt was brought down the mountain by the women and resting places were constructed where they could have a breather and rest their load.  It was discovered that this precious commodity could be exchanged for other useful items, such a malt and hops and a brewing industry grew up.  Three of the original salt houses right at the edge of the lake became the brewery and are now the Braugasthof, a delightful pub and restaurant with a garden on the waterside.

Our hotel had been patronised by the Empress Elizabeth, the beautiful Sissi, while her husband preferred Bad Ischl not far away.  The hotel is a listed building with no lift and very creaky floorboards, but spacious rooms and large balconies overlooking the lake. Very peaceful and beautiful.