Bad Gastein is a quaint spa town in the heart of the Austrian Alps, known for its healing thermal springs and impressive waterfalls. Here you experience a pleasant mix of tranquility and adventure, surrounded by a stunning mountain landscape.
Quick Facts about Bad Gastein:
- What is Bad Gastein? A historic spa town in the Alps.
- Where is it located? In the Gastein Valley, Salzburg State, Austria.
- What is the name of the waterfall? The famous Gastein Waterfall flows right through the town.
- Known for: Healing baths, skiing, hiking, Belle Époque architecture.
- Time required: Ideal for stays ranging from a few days to a week.
- Altitude: About 1,000 meters above sea level.
- Population: Approximately 4,000 inhabitants.
General
Bad Gastein, once a glamorous meeting place for the elite, still radiates a unique atmosphere today. The town feels a bit like the center of Vienna was copied and rebuilt in the mountains. Nestled in the majestic peaks of the High Tauern, this place combines historical charm with modern comfort. Its healing thermal springs have attracted people from all over the world for centuries.
Gastein Waterfall
The waterfall in the town center is considered a landmark, having been the subject of many painters and poets. The total fall height of the Gastein Ache in three stages is 341 m. The negatively ionized air created by mist is an important therapeutic element of the town.
The History
The town’s history is marked by glamour and grandeur, but also by a touch of decay. A striking example is the former Grand Hotel de l’Europe, whose magnificent ruins served as inspiration for the famous “Grand Budapest Hotel.” These abandoned hotels tell stories from a bygone era when nobility and artists sought refuge in Bad Gastein.
The Town is Being Renovated
Extensive renovations and new construction projects are currently underway in the center, aimed at revitalizing historic buildings and hotels in the heart of the spa town. Some of the notable projects include:
Hotel Straubinger: The nearly 180-year-old Hotel Straubinger, a central building, has been extensively renovated. Our report on the five-star hotel with 50 rooms, reopened at the end of 2023, can be found here.
Badeschloss: Directly opposite the Hotel Straubinger is the historic Badeschloss, which has also been renovated. It emerged as a four-star-plus operation with 102 rooms. A striking feature of this project is a 35-meter high extension with 13 floors, on top of which a swimming pool has been created. We also visited the Badeschloss.
Further projects: In addition to these main projects, there are other renovation and new construction projects in Bad Gastein aimed at reviving the historic center of the spa town. These projects include the conversion of old buildings into bars, cafes, restaurants, and modern hotel complexes.
These renovation and new construction measures are part of a larger effort to reposition Bad Gastein as an attractive travel destination while preserving its historical charm.
Bad Gastein in Winter: A Snow Paradise for Skiers and More
In winter, the town transforms into a snow-sure ski resort, offering something for every type of winter sports enthusiast:
- Skiing and Snowboarding: With access to four major ski areas, Bad Gastein offers slopes for every taste and level. Modern lifts and well-groomed slopes guarantee top-notch skiing pleasure. Right next to the center of Bad Gastein is the Stubnerkogelbahn. Here is our report on the beautiful ski area with the Stubnerkogel suspension bridge.
- Cross-Country Skiing: There are numerous trails for cross-country skiers. These range from simple rounds on flat terrain to more challenging routes in the mountains. We visited the very beautiful “Böckstein” trail, which can be reached along the Gastein Ache.
- Winter Hiking and Snowshoeing: A special experience is winter hiking on cleared paths or snowshoeing through the untouched snowscape. We recommend, for example, the Kaiser-Wilhelm-Promenade, which leads from the center of Bad Gastein for about half an hour on level ground into the Kötschachtal valley.
From the Kötschachtal valley, we highly recommend the (winter) hike to Prossau. In the snow, it’s a real winter wonderland. - Tobogganing: Tobogganing is a fun alternative for families and friends. There are several toboggan runs in and around Bad Gastein, which can be used both during the day and in the evenings under floodlights. In Bad Gastein itself, you will find the Natural Toboggan Run Bellevue Alm. Right next to the Bellevue Alm, at an altitude of 1260 meters above Bad Gastein, starts the illuminated natural toboggan run. It stretches over 2.5 kilometers and leads, especially in the evening hours thanks to the floodlights, down towards the town.
- Ice Skating and Curling: Bad Gastein offers ice skating opportunities in the town center or on frozen lakes. Curling, a traditional winter sport, is also a popular activity.
- Thermal Baths and Wellness: The thermal baths of Bad Gastein are also a highlight in winter. After a day on the slopes, the warm thermal pools and sauna landscapes offer perfect relaxation. In Bad Gastein, you will find the Felsentherme opposite the train station.
Bad Gastein in Summer: A Paradise for Nature and Sports Lovers
Gastein in summer is a dream destination for all who love nature and want to be active. The surrounding mountains offer numerous possibilities for outdoor activities:
- Hiking: The Gastein Valley has an extensive network of hiking trails, ranging from leisurely walks to challenging mountain tours. Popular routes include the Gasteiner Höhenweg and the historical Gasteiner Sagenweg, which brings the local culture closer with exciting stories.
- Mountain Biking: For cyclists, the surrounding area offers varied mountain bike trails. From simple tours along the Gasteiner Ache to challenging trails on the surrounding mountains.
- Climbing and Mountaineering: The region offers numerous climbing routes and via ferratas. The climbing park in Bad Gastein itself is a highlight for climbing enthusiasts.
- Paragliding: For adrenaline seekers, there is the opportunity to experience Bad Gastein from the air. Tandem paragliding flights offer breathtaking views of the Alps.
- Thermal Baths and Wellness: After an active day in the mountains, the thermal baths of Bad Gastein offer relaxation and recovery. The healing properties of the thermal water are ideal for regeneration.
- Golf: The 18-hole golf course invites you to swing your club amidst the alpine scenery. The course is known for its idyllic location and offers challenges for players of all levels.
Relaxation and Wellness
Besides sporting activities, Bad Gastein is also a center for relaxation and wellness. The thermal springs of the place have been known for their healing properties for centuries. Modern spa facilities combine these traditional healing methods with contemporary wellness offerings to provide a comprehensive relaxation experience.
Gastronomy
The local cuisine in Bad Gastein is a delight for gourmets. Regional specialties, combined with modern culinary trends, offer a wide range of taste experiences. From cozy alpine huts to upscale restaurants, the gastronomic scene in Bad Gastein leaves nothing to be desired.
Be on the lookout for the Skihauben dishes, a delicious creation that combines the best of a hood and a hut dish, and at an attractive, affordable price.
We had a very good meal, for example, at Angelo
Accommodations
Here everyone will find the right accommodation – from luxurious hotels in Belle-Époque style to cozy guesthouses and holiday apartments. Many accommodations offer direct access to the ski areas and hiking trails as well as to the thermal baths and spa facilities.