BAD ISCHL
A place that continues to amaze: It is no wonder that Bad Ischl and the beautiful Salzkammergut region were chosen as the European Capital of Culture 2024 - the entire region with all its villages, towns and landscapes is a true Austrian jewel that impresses with its rich cultural heritage and variety of natural treasures. The enchanting Salzkammergut, which stretches across Upper Austria, Salzburg and Styria, offers a wealth of experiences that will enchant any traveller: From strolling through charming villages and swimming in crystal-clear lakes to hiking in majestic mountains and an exciting journey of discovery of the traditional craftsmanship that has characterised the region for centuries: Gmunden ceramics.
SCHAFBERG
A special summit highlight is the Schafberg, which rewards the ascent with a breathtaking 360-degree panoramic view. On a clear day, you can even see as far as Lake Chiemsee.
SCHAFBERGBAHN
If you prefer something a little more comfortable, but still want to enjoy a phenomenal view, you can also reach the 35-metre-high summit in 35 minutes on the Schafbergbahn - the steepest cog railway in Austria. The summit of the Katrinberg promises another magnificent panoramic view - here, too, you save yourself a strenuous ascent and can completely immerse yourself in the mountains during the ride on the Katrin cable car and simply let your gaze wander.
5FINGERS
For those looking for a little more thrill, the 5fingers viewing platform on the Krippenstein is an absolute must: while visitors soar above the abyss, they can also enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and lakes - an experience you will never forget. But the Salzkammergut offers unique natural spectacles not only above the clouds, but also below ground.
DACHSTEIN ICE CAVES
The Dachstein mountainsare home to a cave formation known for its impressive landscape and geological formations. 50-minute tours take you into the subterranean realm of stalactites and stalagmites, allowing you to experience the magic of the Dachstein Ice Caves up close.
GMUNDNER CERAMICS
However, no visit to the Salzkammergut would be complete without an insight into the region's rich cultural tradition. And anyone who says "Salzkammergut" must also say "Gmundner Keramik" - because the manufactory has been producing colourful, hand-painted ceramics of the highest quality since the 17th century and has thus become a symbol of Austrian craftsmanship, tradition and the beauty of the region. Each unique piece is crafted with attention to detail and radiates timeless elegance - making them true treasures for every style of living.
The unmistakable "Grüngeflammt" is the company's trademark. Each piece in the Geflammt series has been produced in Gmunden for 300 years using a unique artisan technique. When "flaming ", the colour is not painted on, but sprayed onto the ceramic with a fine hose - an art that requires two years of training, which only Gmunden still offers. For this reason, the "flaming of ceramics" was even named a UNESCO intangible cultural heritage site in 2021.
FACTORY TOUR
Insights into production and factory tours
If you would like to find out more about the creation of the unique pieces, you can take part in a guided tour of the manufactory: In addition to a short film, valuable exhibits, a touch and photo station, visitors are given exciting insights into the creation of the ceramics and the various production steps - from turning and glazing to painting and firing. A boutique shop with gift ideas from the manufactory right in the centre of Gmunden invites visitors to browse.
EXHIBITIONS
And if you are ever in the Gmundner Manufaktur, you should take a look at the current exhibition of Gmundner Keramik x AocG.
