I’ve been back from Hallstatt for a couple of weeks now. I had every intention of writing about my time there during the days soon after I returned back to London. The only problem being, every time I sat down I write, I couldn’t find the words to explain what I saw and experienced. Hallstatt left me speechless.
Before I departed to Hallstatt, friends of mine had told me that the place is like a fairytale. On the ferry across the lake to the little town at the base of a mountain, the realisation of their words began to resonate. It really is like being transported to a dream land. It’s beauty so incredible, only one word that managed to pass my lips…woah. This place was one of the most visually stunning places I have ever seen, and once again it was love at first sight.
After checking into my accommodation for the next two nights, it was becoming clear that this trip I had embarked on was bigger than me and meant to be. Everything just seemed to fall into place so organically, feeling as though I was being led from one thing to the next..my own tailor made adventure was unfolding before me. My room was perfect in every sense of the word, on the top level of the building giving panoramic views across the lake leading up towards the surrounding mountains. And when sunset eventually rolled around that first night, the colours presented to me I will never forget. Pinks and oranges turned into cascading hues of red reflecting in the lake and the snow covered hillsides. Paired with the deep blues of the lake itself and brushed snow upon the ground, it was like a painting from one of the worlds’ greatest galleries.
There isn’t too much to do in Hallstatt during the winter months. The town itself becomes a base for skiers and snowboarders, keen to check out the nearby slopes. I didn’t mind this though, the point of this trip was to relax from everyday life…reflecting on the year past and dreaming of things for the year ahead. This was done mostly by walking…everywhere.
The following morning I headed to the nearby Dachstein mountains. These mountains are mostly frequented for the slopes, but I was pleased to learn that the main viewing platform was open all year round. 5 fingers viewing platform is approximately a 90 minute round walk from the top of the cable car drop off point. Trust me when I say, you will need longer. I was at the top of that mountain for a few hours. When you eventually reach the top, you will feel like you can reach out and touch the sky. Mount Krippenstein is 2,100 m in elevation and the viewing platform stretches out four metres past the edge of the mountain, giving uninterrupted views of the Hallstatt Lake below and the surrounding mountain ranges. You quickly become at eye level with mountain tops and horizon lines.
Wandering around the lake side will probably be one of my favourite things about my visit. When looking at options of places to go, Hallstatt grabbed my attention for the simple fact it was on the edge of a lake. I have always felt most at ease when I’m close to water. The combination of open spaces and the sound of the waves gently lapping against the shoreline make my soul feel like its home again. It makes the busyness of life unravel to instantly make more sense and bring clarity. This is the way I spent my final day…wandering, listening and appreciating. Following the sporadic footprints through the snow.
Though this is one of the most simple trips I’ve taken, but also one of the most worthwhile. The simple beauty of creation made life pause for a few days and I was able to catch my breath and stare in wonder.
Sending hugs & smiles,
Vanessa
