Bad Gastein: Belle Époque and the Waterfall
A spa town of emperors between cliffs and hot springs
- Duration
- 2.0 hours
- Languages
- German, English
Bad Gastein in the Salzburg region is a unique spa town with a mighty waterfall thundering through its center. This private walk tells of emperors, artists and the Belle Époque in the Hohe Tauern mountains.
The thermal springs of Gastein have been known for centuries. In the 19th century Emperor Wilhelm I, Empress Elisabeth and many aristocrats came to take the cure, and grand hotels were built on the steep slopes.
In the middle of town the Gastein Waterfall cascades down several tiers, with a bridge right above it. Around Straubinger Square stand the Belle Époque hotels; some sit empty, others have been lavishly restored.
Today Bad Gastein is enjoying a comeback as a place for art, design and mountain sports. Your guide also explains the healing gallery, where radon-rich air is used for therapy, and the water power that brought the town electricity early on.
Highlights
- Waterfall in the town center
- Belle Époque grand hotels
- Straubinger Square
- History of the thermal springs
- Emperors, artists and spa guests
The route
-
1Straubinger Square
Heart of the spa town
-
2Waterfall bridge
Into the spray
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3Kaiser Wilhelm promenade
Hotels and villas
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4Spa park
Thermal history
Who this tour is for
Great for architecture fans, photographers and guests on a ski or spa holiday in the Gastein Valley.
Frequently asked questions
Are entrance fees included?
No. Entrance fees and tickets for cable cars, trains, boats or tastings are not included and are paid on site. Your guide is happy to tell you in advance what to expect.
Is the price per person or per group?
This is a private tour with a licensed Austrian tour guide. The price is per group, not per person, so it is just you and your own party.
Can we visit a thermal spa afterwards?
Yes. Bad Gastein has thermal baths you can visit after the tour. Admission is not included.
