Sights in Bad Gastein
Waterfall – The Symbol of Bad Gastein:
A motif for many famous painters and poets
The falls on the Gasteiner Ache drop a total of 341 metres in 3 stages
Because of the atomisation of the negatively ionised air, the waterfall is actually one of the town’s most important therapeutic features.
The Gasteiner Ache has its origins in the Anlaufbach and the Nassfelder Ache in the central region of the Hohe Tauern National Park.
The stone bridge at the falls was originally built in 1840 and enlarged in 1927.
Thermal Springs - Thermal Waters:
The discovery of the Gastein springs occurred in the 7th century.
Research has shown that water from precipitation seeps into the ground in the area of the Graukogel and Hüttenkogel at around 1800 metres above sea level, sinking down some 2,000 metres into the ground. It then heats up in those depths, only to rise up to some 1,000 metres above sea level again and surface in the Badberg area, a lesser peak below the Graukogel in Bad Gastein, emerging at 18 different springs at a rate of five million litres per day. The thermal water is weakly mineralised, contains radon and has a temperature of 44 - 47°C. The springs are such that their naturally heated waters are protected from the influx of surface water. The water from the main springs is collected in a tank at the electrical works and then pumped to the water towers, which in turn supply the individual hotels and spas. Due to hygiene regulations, it is only possible to visit one of the springs – the Elisabethquelle – as part of a local guided history tour.
Gastein Museum:
The exhibition in the Haus Austria focuses on local traditions. The museum houses an impressive collection of minerals, along with interesting information about the history of mining and hunting. Exhibits related to local folk customs - such as the traditional wooden “Perchten” masks - complete the wide selection of cultural items on show. For further information, please phone +43/6434/3488.
Böckstein Mining & Open-Air Museum:
Impressive journey through the history of mining. The past comes to life again in the historic open-air museum with its washhouse, stable, management building, manager's house, store, the Coloredo House and vicarage. At the heart of the open-air museum is the Salzstadl/salt room. Further information is available from montanmuseum_boeckstein@aon.at
"Prossau" Forest Guesthouse - Kötschachtal:
The starting point for idyllic walks to the Tischlerkar waterfalls in the Upper Prossau region. A great tip for romantic horse-and-carriage or sleigh rides amid the unique natural beauty of the Hohe Tauern National Park. A rewarding trip into one of Austria’s last great wildlife paradises.
Alpengasthof Poserhöhe
elev. 1502m | tel. +43/6434/5333
How to reach us: From the Hotel Grüner Baum (via an alpine trail) 1 hr., from the Gamskarstrasse 1 ½ hrs. (mountain path), from Bad Hofgastein via the Planitzengut 2 ½ hrs. Take in fantastic views of the Hohe Tauern National Park and Gastein’s mountains. Visit our cosy mountain hut and enjoy our traditional meals, home-made cakes etc. The “Poser Dwarfs” will take care of your every need, making your day out a very special adventure.
St. Nicholas Church:
Special tip for history lovers. This 15th-cent. church is considered a jewel of the Bad Gastein region. Particularly noteworthy are the well-preserved late Gothic frescos and the awe-inspiring Baroque altar. The church also houses the oldest stone chancel in the province of Salzburg.
Parish Church:
A particular attraction for culture aficionados. The church was built in the 19th century. It contains art treasures which were created several hundred years ago: Baroque and neo Gothic sculptures, including the Gothic wooden Madonna in the high altar dating from 1450.
"Maria of the Good Counsel" Pilgrimage Church in Böckstein:
Another high point of your "church tour" of the Gastein Valley. This pilgrimage church was dedicated to its original purpose in 1767 after three years of building. It represents a significant work of the early Classical period in the Salzburg region.
Grand Hotel de l'Europe:
Previously an exclusive hotel with a fascinating historical atmosphere for the most discerning of guests. Built between 1906 and 1909, this temple of luxury can be assigned to the Late Historical Period. The internationally-celebrated casino in Bad Gastein is an irresistible attraction for night owls.
Natural Monuments:
Protected treasures amid the natural beauties of the Gastein Valley. An excursion to the so-called “Glacier Mills” is particularly worthwhile. The world-famous Gastein Waterfall - an overwhelming photographic motif - is readily accessible in the centre of Bad Gastein.
MORE DETAILS ARE AVAILABLE FROM THE INFORMATION OFFICE IN BAD GASTEIN. PHONE +43/6432/3393-560 OR SEND AN E-MAIL DIRECTLY TO: bad@gastein.com