Things to do in St Gilgen

Only a thirty minutes by car from Salzburg, the picturesque town of St Gilgen (Sankt Gilgen) lies on the Wolfgangsee Lake in the Salzkammergut region. Following the construction of the Salzkammergut-Lokalbahn in 1863, this little village experienced an increase in tourism attracting rich Viennese who built their summer residences here. Often compared to the popular Hallstatt, Saint Gilgen features decorated wooden buildings nesteld between towering mountains and lakeside views - without the crowds.

Don't have a car? Consider taking the ferry from St Wolfgang and hop on the Schafberbahn cogwheel train, climbing the nearby mountain that was featured in the Sound of Music.

In St Gilgen stroll down Ischlerstraße towards the water to see the historic centers shops as well as the historic church. Enter the Heimathaus to learn about the traditions of the region including glass blowing and woodturning. Then, visit the birthplace of Mozart's mother and the home of his sister Maria Anna at the Mozarthaus Museum.

Head to the city beach at Strandbad located five minutes from the pier, where during the the summer months visitors can cool off in the lake. Enjoy activities in the blue waters renting banana boats, stand-up paddleboards and boats.

Take the Zwölferhorn Cable Car and ride for 11 minutes to an elevation of 908 meters to discover the mountainous terrain of Saint Gilgen. Walk to the Aussichtsplattform Zwölferhorn observation deck to experience panoramic views of the city below, then begin your day hiking the many trails or try out paragliding. In the winter months the gondola also offers access to piste used for cross country skiing and snowshoeing.