When traveling through Europe, it is easy to stick to big, touristy areas. While those cities have many opportunities to offer (I mean they are popular for a reason), I think that it can be valuable to spend time in less well-known cities. If you’re looking for a getaway in Austria, I recommend Millstatt. Located in the province of Carinthia, at the foothills of the Alps, Millstatt is a quaint town surrounded by powerful mountains and a beautiful lake.
This lake acts as the most attractive part to potential Austrian vacationers who frequent the spot in the summer. During these warm months, the town bustles with people escaping to the mountains and water for a little while. Hotels are full, souvenir shops open, and people spend their days hiking the mountains or swimming in the lake — or at least that’s what I’ve heard. I visited the city in February, the exact opposite of the summer months. A majority of the stores were closed for the season, particularly the gelato stores, and the air was way too cold to get in the water. Despite all this, I still greatly enjoyed my time in Millstatt.
If you are a nature person, you will be astounded by the natural beauty that surrounds the city on every side. Even if you are not a nature person, most people still have their breath taken away by the majesty of the Alps and the serenity of the lake. This beauty occurs regardless of the season; in the summer, the trees are green and flowers dot the landscape, but in the winter the snow brings peace and calming.
Aside from nature, beauty can also be found in the Millstatt Abbey. It was established in 1070, and the art and ornamentation on the walls not only tell its story but also enhance the experience of the visitor. Perhaps the most memorable experience of the abbey and accompanying church, though, are the beautiful bells. While these bells can be heard all across the city, nothing beats gazing up at the two tall bell towers, listening to them create a melody.
This one attraction and some views of the Alps may not seem like enough to draw you away from the big city, and the fact that it is a resort town may turn away people who want an authentic experience, but the best part of Millstatt is that it is the best of both experiences. There are plenty of things to see, do and eat because the city caters to tourists, but you also get a unique experience since the tourists are people from the area. You get the opportunity to vacation like a local would. The next time you plan your European adventure, consider visiting Millstatt or a small town like it.
