Carinthia, Austria’s undiscovered gem, is now wooing discerning travellers with its captivating blend of Alpine and Mediterranean influences, warm pristine lakes framed by majestic alpine peaks and a rich cultural tapestry. This region, often referred to as "Austria's lake district", offers a more relaxed and authentic travel experience, making it an appealing destination, particularly for visitors from the Middle East.
Austria’s southernmost province, Carinthia is a sanctuary where you can truly unwind, reconnect with nature, and discover a side of Austria rarely seen by the crowds. In this serene Alpine-Adriatric region, TTN sampled a selection of the diversity of experiences that it offers. Some of these memorable experiences included a leisurely boat ride on lake Wörthersee to the Pyramidenkogel tower - the highest wooden observation tower in the world that also hosts Europe's tallest indoor tunnel slide - in the region’s capital, Klagenfurt am Wörthersee; the Nockberge Biosphere Reserve, which together with Salzburg's Lungau region, is Austria's largest UNESCO biosphere reserve; Austria‘s most modern thermal spa and water park, part of Hotel Warmbaderhof in Warmbad-Villach; an exhilarating tractor ride through a Chalet Village along the Alpine slopes followed by a dessert fest at Trattlers Einkehr, which is part of the Slow Food movement; and even a stroll amidst 188 Japanese macaques at Monkey Mountain, guided by their caretaker Dannez who calls virtually each one by name! Due to its southern location, the region enjoys a milder climate and more sunshine hours than many other parts of Austria, creating a pleasant, almost Mediterranean, ambiance. Carinthia is renowned for its breathtaking and diverse landscapes epitomising the Alpine-Adriatic area. It is a land of striking contrasts, featuring mountain landscapes from gentle slopes to towering 3,000-m peaks, alongside warm lakes and historic castles amidst rolling, vineyard-covered hills. It's rich in water features, boasting more than 1,200 lakes – 200 of which are warm enough to swim in (Carinthian lakes are known for their clean, drinkable water and therapeutic qualities) - 8,000 km of rivers, 60 mineral springs, and 43 glaciers. This makes it an ideal destination for various activities, from challenging hikes on peaks like the Grossglockner (Austria's highest mountain) to relaxing "Slow Trails" around its warm, crystal-clear lakes. Carinthia offers a wealth of activities for a vibrant summer getaway, combining relaxation with adventure amidst its scenic lakes and mountains – ranging from cycling, kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding (SUP), hiking, glacier trekking, fishing and golfing. Another highlight is the summer mountain experience, with 15 mountain railways that lead to stunning views, tranquil spots, and exciting adventures, while providing comfortable and sustainable access to high-altitude bliss. The region also offers wellness activities and spa treatments at thermal springs and bath houses.Another highlight of the region is its Alpe-Adria cuisine that blends fresh regional ingredients with Italian and Slovenian influences. As the world's first Slow Food Travel Destination, Carinthia allows visitors to engage directly with traditional food production through courses and tours, offering a truly immersive culinary experience.
Carinthia charming capital, Klagenfurt’s idyllic location on the picturesque Wörthersee, the region’s largest lake, makes it a year-round attraction, enticing visitors with its crystal-clear water, surrounded by green hills and picturesque villages. It is a historic city with Renaissance architecture, vibrant cafés, and a lively old town with the traditional Benediktinermarkt marketplace and family attractions such as Minimundus (a miniature park that presents the world’s most famous sights on a scale of 1:25), and Lake Wörthersee boat trips.
Located at the far end of Lake Wörthersee from Klagenfurt is another alluring town, Velden, which hosts, among other attractions, the iconic Casino Velden, the picturesque Strandbad Velden (beach) and the luxurious five-star Falkensteiner Schlosshotel Velden, a member of the Leading Hotels of the World.
Carinthia stands out as a fresh, multifaceted destination for Middle Eastern travellers, combining natural beauty, diverse activities, and genuine hospitality. Its lakes, mountains and cultural richness promise memorable experiences for every kind of holiday seeker.