Upper Austria is a tapestry of diversity. Discover the rolling hills of the Mühlviertel region, the idyllic lakes and mountains of the Salzkammergut, the lush green Danube valley, and the imposing peaks of the Upper Austrian Alps. The multifaceted region offers something for every taste, ensuring a well-rounded experience for both nature enthusiasts and culture aficionados. Thanks to its central location in the heart of Austria, the province further has the advantage of being easily accessible.
Cultural heritage meets innovation
Upper Austria bridges the gap between rich cultural heritage and future-oriented technologies. Nowhere is this unique blend of what appear to be opposites more evident than in the vibrant cultural scene of Linz, the provincial capital. As a UNESCO City of Media Arts, Linz stands at the forefront of the digital revolution and impresses with its progressive technology scene. Explore the ARS Electronica Center Linz, a hands-on museum of the future where the boundaries between reality and virtuality become blurred, immerse yourself in contemporary Austrian art at the LENTOS art museum, and delve into the world of the internationally renowned steel company at the voestalpine Stahlwelt. Linz’s historic city centre enchants visitors with its imposing buildings steeped in history — among them the Mariendom, Austria’s largest church — which adds a charming contrast to the city’s innovative spirit.
Beyond the capital, there are many cultural gems waiting to be explored. A particularly popular destination in Upper Austria is Hallstadt — so popular, in fact, that the idyllic town was recreated by Chinese architects in their homeland. An equally impressive sight is the romantic Schloss Ort, a castle situated in the middle of Traunsee lake. If you’d like to catch a glimpse of the spirit of the Habsburg monarchy, do not miss out on the Imperial Kaiservilla in Bad Ischl, which used to serve as a summer residence for Emperor Franz Joseph I and Empress Sisi. Another gem is the baroque St. Florian Monastery. Both the basilica and the convent building are listed for historic preservation and house outstanding art treasures as well as an extensive library comprising more than 150,000 volumes. Those who would like to step back in time even further have the opportunity to plunge into the Middle Ages at Clam Castle, where visitors can explore a fully furnished and inhabited medieval fortress.
Inspiring social programme activities
Amidst diverse landscapes, Upper Austria offers a wealth of activities that provide a well-deserved break from demanding conferences. There is a variety of ways to explore the idyllic scenery: Go horse riding and take in the rolling hills of the Mühlviertel from atop your trusty steed, conquer via ferratas and peaks that impress with panoramic views across the lakes of the Salzkammergut region, enjoy boat trips along the Danube, take a guided tour with experienced rangers through the Kalkalpen National Park, or explore Upper Austria’s vast network of cycling routes that spans more than 2,000 kilometres.
Water sports and diving adventures are particularly popular activities in Upper Austria: Lake Attersee is considered one of the most famous diving bases in Europe, there are 1,500-year-old underwater trees and the wreck of the “Kronprinz Rudolf” waiting to be discovered in Lake Hallstatt, and the Alpine lakes offer excellent visibility. You would rather stay closer to the surface? No problem: Upper Austria offers excellent spots for scuba diving in its many rivers and streams.
During the winter months, the Upper Austrian Alps beckon visitors to go skiing, snowboarding, and tobogganing, the Mühlviertel region is a paradise for cross-country skiing, and snowshoe hikes through the National Park allow you to follow the tracks of chamois and other wildlife. Another unique experience are Ruckxbob tours: Carrying a Ruckxbob on your backs — that is, an all-in-one rucksack, sledge, and toboggan — and snowshoes on your feet, you and your team set off on a hike through the winter wonderland. A rapid descent through the deep snow will bring you back down.
If you are looking for a counterbalance to the strains of daily business as well as adventurous leisure time activities, look no further than the five thermal spas Upper Austria has to offer. At the Therme Geinberg spa, visitors can relax surrounded by sandy beaches and tropical flair all year round, while the EurothermenResort Bad Hall offers curative thermal water with natural iodine brine. No matter where, soaking in the hot thermal pools is the perfect way to unwind.
Culinary indulgence
A seminar stay in Upper Austria is also a gourmet experience. In line with its philosophy of blending the old and the new, the province’s cuisine is innovative and daring, yet in harmony with traditions and customs.
Visitors can look forward to being treated to hearty traditional fare while unwinding from their day in pleasant beer gardens. Upper Austria’s cuisine consists of down-to-earth dishes and regional delicacies with a modern twist. A particularly popular staple are dumplings in all their variety: ranging from Semmelknödel — traditional bread dumplings often served with gravy — to spinach dumplings and the sweet Topfenknödel made from curd cheese, there is a dumpling for every taste.
The region takes pride in keeping traditional recipes and authentic production methods alive, which means that numerous dishes with a long history can be enjoyed in Upper Austria. This includes Stanglfisch — that is, a certain species of fish fried on a stick and served with fresh bread —, a number of cabbage dishes, and different types of Sulz, savoury jelly dishes usually made with meat or fish.
For dessert, the famous Linzer Torte cake, which has been baked since the beginning of the 17th century, is a must. For beer lovers, Upper Austria is a land of milk and honey — or, more so, of hops and yeast: the province boasts over 50 breweries producing more than 100 different beers.
