In the spa town of Bad Ischl, around 30 minutes by car from Traunkirchen, you’ll find the Konditorei Zauner, a patisserie with a glorious display case filled with exquisitely decorated cakes. Zauner has been in business since 1832, and to this day lovingly preserves traditional Austrian coffee culture, serving drinks from a milky melange to an indulgent double mocha. Ustyna, dressed exquisitely in Prada, fit right in. They also offer the country’s largest selection of cakes with some 250 creations as well as about 60 varieties of truffles, pralines and chocolates. The Zaunerstollen, a hazelnut and chocolate wafer, and the Ischler Törtchen, a fruity shortbread, are not to be missed.
Lake Fuschl
Located on the shores of Lake Fuschl, the Rosewood Schloss Fuschl Hotel is truly straight out of a movie… scenes from the famous Sissi trilogy of films starring Austrian-born Romy Schneider were shot here, and there is a small museum on-site. Today it is the hotel, inside and out, that is the star. The bar is one of the most beautiful in the country with dark wood panelling and hand-painted murals, while the clear lake is strikingly blue. It’s also decidedly more peaceful than other nearby lakes as motorboats are strictly prohibited. Every swim (or paddle) in its waters and every stroll through the nearby green meadows and forests feels like a meditative moment. When the weather might tempt you indoors, the oil paintings on display, whisky menu and board games on offer are extensive.
Salzburg
The most important city in this part of Austria, Salzburg is famous for its cultural highlights – it’s a destination for everyone who loves art, music and cuisine. The Hotel Goldener Hirsch, a Luxury Collection Hotel, is the place to enjoy a morning coffee with the dailies in a gemütlich historic setting – the hotel was first mentioned in a document from 1407. Or head straight to dinner, where backhendl, a traditional Austrian breaded fried chicken, is a delicious treat. A must on every Salzburg itinerary is a visit to the Kirchtag factory in the old Getreidegasse lane where Mozart was born. There you can watch craftsmen make umbrellas by hand. If you ask nicely, you may be able to take in the city views from the rooftop terrace, wearing Burberry, optional of course. It could be one of the most memorable moments of your Austrian holiday.