We are driving from Lake Bled, Slovenia to Hallstatt, Austria in July. Is there a picturesque or not-to-be-missed town to stop for lunch or something along the drive that we should make sure to stop and see? I am looking for a place that's not a big resort place but something with a very local feel with traditional Austrian food. Thank you!
Posted by
Nashville, TN, USA
795 posts
Gmunden is a fairy tale town that looks like it is out of a dream. The mountains and Lake Traunsee make for spectacular scenery and the SeeHotel Schwan Restaurant in the hotel (named after the swans on the lake) is a great place to eat Austrian food. The hotel is a great place to stay if you decide to overnight there. The scenery is magnificent and the restaurant has an amazing view. It is very central. Have a peek at www.seehotel-schwan.at/p_245/Restaurant.html
Posted by
Rick Steves' Europe
16893 posts
For driving routes, www.viamichelin.com will suggest a "Discovery Route," mostly on slower B roads, as an alternative to the fastest motorway routes. They allow 4.25 hours for the scenic drive, versus 2.75 hours for the quickest route.