Salzburg to Lake Wolfgang: Private day trip

Dating back to the early Middle Ages, Sankt Wolfgang became pilgrimage site after the canonization of the eponymous saint. At first, its waterfront church drew visitors looking for blessings, but after being rebuilt in the 14th century, it became renowned for its art collection. The interior of the seemingly simple structure is completely covered in Baroque frescoes and stucco, and houses a collection of amazing altars. The most well known is the 15th century Pacher Altar, a masterpiece of Gothic art, and the only preserved piece by Michael Pacher. However, the largest and grandest is the angel-covered Baroque double altar. After admiring these exceptional pieces, visitors can take a leisurely stroll along Sankt Wolfgang's waterfront to soak in its stunning natural beauty.

Sankt Gilgen deserves to be on every nature lover and film buff’s to-do list. This is where the iconic opening scenes to ‘The Sound of Music’ were filmed — and who can forget those? The connection with music doesn’t stop there, though. The village is also the birthplace of Mozart’s mother, his grandfather and is where his sister lived following her marriage. Even though he never actually stayed there, the history of picturesque Sankt Gilgen is inextricably connected to Mozart, Austria’s favorite son. The shimmering azure waters of Lake Wolfgangsee provide an ideal location to feel the cool, clean air and to spend a few moments watching the paragliders as they swirl around the mountain peaks before heading off into the clouds. Whether taking the short gondola ride to the mountain top or simply meandering a mountain trail from the village, the views and ambience of Sankt Gilgen present every visitor with an unforgettable mountain paradise.