A winter wonderland awaits us on this magical tour of the picturesque Austrian Lakes to take in the atmospheric Christmas markets in the elegant city of Salzburg as well as the charming towns dotted around Lake Wolfgangsee. Enjoy the magic of this wonderful time of year aboard a scenic advent lake cruise as well as a special festive train ride on the Schafberg Cog Railway in the snowy peaks of the Salzkammergut.
PACKAGED ITINERARY
Day 1 Arrival
We arrive at our hotel in time for dinner.
Day 2 Salzburg
After a leisurely breakfast, we soak up the sights of the beautiful city of Salzburg with a fascinating 2-hour guided walking tour. Known as the birthplace of Mozart and famed as the iconic film location of the Sound of Music, Salzburg has an historic old town, many Baroque squares, museums and shops to discover. With so much to see, we have free time to browse the Christmas Markets from the iconic Christkindlmarkt at the majestic Salzburg Cathedral to the smaller more intimate markets dotted around the city.
Day 3 Halstatt & Bad Ischl
This morning, we enjoy a visit to one of Austria’s most beautiful attractions, the lakeside village of Halstatt with a picturesque harbourfront, colourful houses and spectacular views all around. Afterwards, we will travel on to the enchanting town of Bad Ischl to visit one of the oldest markets in the country and the indoor market inside the elegant pavilion, Trinkhalle, full of festive cheer with live music performances and warming beverages.
(Please note that coach drop off and pick up slots in Halstatt must be booked in advance).
Day 4 Lake Wolfgang & Schafberg Mountain
This morning, we leave the hotel at approximately 1030 hours to visit the town of Strobl on the south-east bank of Lake Wolfgang before travelling to St Wolfgang situated in the spectacular Salzkammergut region. From there, we board the festive-lit Schafberg Cog Railway on a train journey through the wintry Schafberg mountain forest to the Schafbergalm station for hot drinks and incredible views of the magical landscape. On our return, we will enjoy free time to explore the town of St Wolfgang before boarding the ferry for a lantern-lit boat trip to St Gilgen. Afterwards, we will re-board our coach and return to our hotel.
(Please note a later departure and later dinner will be required on this day to enable passenger to best experience these markets. Please note that there are specific coach parking regulations for Advent which may require some walking to/from coach parking. Therefore, this day is less suited for anybody with mobility issues).
Day 5 Departure
After breakfast, we make our way home.
Hotel Jakob
Fuschl, Austrian Lake District
This historic Austrian chalet styled hotel enjoys a prominent position in the centre of Fuschl and is only metres from the picturesque lake. Offering modern, stylish accommodation and public areas, the 69 guest rooms are comfortable with the latest facilities including flat screen TV and hairdryer. Hotel Jakob offers a hearty buffet breakfast and the bar is a great spot for a coffee or evening drink.
4 Nights Half Board
NOV-DEC 2027
Inclusions
- Return short sea crossing
- 2 hour guided walking tour of Salzburg
- Return journey on the Schafbergbahn
- One-way lake cruise St Wolfgang-St Gilgen.