Snow-shredders may recognize Austria’s picturesque Gastein Valley for its slopes — over 170 miles of well-groomed trails, some as high as 88,580-feet above sea level, are a compelling draw for pros and beginners alike — but it’s its world-famous spas that have been luring visitors since the 13th century. Treatments here make use of the natural 90-degree hot springs, which, when combined with cool mountain air and healthy levels of radon, are believed to have regenerative effects, including combating inflammation and curing respiratory ailments. (Even powder junkies feel the water’s bubbly pull after a long day tearing up the pistes.) For the non-sports-inclined, soaking up the springs at any of the more than dozen local spas — The Gastein Thermal Galleries and Felsentherme are two of the best reputed — is the perfect way to savor mountain-time while companions carve up the rock’s snow-heaped curves.
In the midst of the Hohe Tauern National Park, Bad Gastein basks in fresh mountain air and a fog-free setting at 1,000 metres above sea level. Its very characteristic appearance, with beautiful buildings dating back to the \"Belle 蓀oque\", blends harmoniously into its natural surroundings. This is a spa town of world renown with a very special flair: relaxation and recreation in pure mountain air, combined with an ideal high-altitude climate and Gastein’s thermal waters, guarantee you a vacation that is certain to exceed your highest expectations!
In Bad Gastein, you will find an optimal array of opportunities for a holiday together with family or friends, even if your interests happen to vary greatly. With a sensational selection of recreational and activity programmes, this particular holiday spot is lengths ahead of the field. Sports and recreational activities supplement the spa and wellness amenities at the world-famous springs and Healing Galleries of the Felsentherme.
Always-reliable snow conditions, attractive ski runs, cross-country trails featuring all levels of difficulty and much more, are what make Gastein’s winter paradise so exceptional. And when the Gastein Valley is transformed into a summertime paradise, you will discover glorious hiking paths, attractive running and Nordic Walking trails, cycling and mountain-bike tours and more, both in and around the Hohe Tauern National Park.
Also when it comes to Bad Gastein’s hotels and lodging establishments, it is fair to say they promise you a right-royal experience! Whether at a simple bed-and-breakfast or a top hotel, Bad Gastein’s hosts will pamper you with heartfelt hospitality and all the skills at their disposal.
For night owls, evening means it is time to head for the casino. And not to worry, \"Rien ne va plus – no more bets\" only indicates a very brief pause in the action! In Bad Gastein, the broad programme of special events promises to always keep you well entertained!
The Gastein valley isn’t widely known internationally. It deserves better: its slopes are impressively extensive, and mainly quite challenging – great for intermediates who are happy on real red runs. But the place doesn’t cater properly for air-package holiday makers without a car. With five mountains, of which only two are linked, the valley really needs an efficient bus service instead of the current token offering.
With its grand hotels, trinket shops and cramped gorge-like setting, central Bad Gastein itself is a far cry from your standard chalet-style Austrian village. But staying above the center near the lifts offers a more normal winter sports experience, and both Bad Hofgastein and Dorfgastein, respectively a few miles and a few more miles down the valley, are equally well worth considering as a base.
To make the most of the valley you need a car. With five spread out mountains, of which only two are linked, the valley needs a first class public transport system, and it doesn't have one - traveling from end of the valley to the other can take over an hour and may involve a couple of changes. |
发表于 2008-1-18 11:34:36