Tremendous Tyrol & The Austrian Autumn Farmer Festival
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Innsbruck seen from the Bergisel Ski Jump © PT Wilding
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Austria - Tyrol - Innsbruck - Bergisel Ski Jump © PT Wilding
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Austria - Tyrol - Krimml - Waterfalls © PT Wilding
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Indian Festival at Swarovski Crystal Worlds, Wattens © PT Wilding
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Austria - Tyrol - Wattens - Swarovski Kristallwelten inside © PT Wilding
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Achensee Lake Cruise © PT Wilding
Authentic Austrian Farmer Festival
Just as the weather edges away from summer and into autumn, there are a variety of interesting and authentic festivals Austria has to offer, one being the Bauernherbst festival, the Autumn Farmer Festival in Tyrol. Join the locals in the celebrations that extend through until November, full of dancing, food and traditional costume!
Though historically known best for its skiing resorts and winter sports, the Tyrol is an excellent destination all year round. Idyllic villages, towering mountains and glistening lakes all contribute to its soaring popularity. The mountainous Austrian state offers a wonderful variety of attractions and sights. From rural steam trains and lake cruises to medieval cities, it is a perfectly picturesque place.
Tyrol & Innsbruck’s delights
Visit the Alpine capital of Innsbruck, overlooked by the Bergisel Ski Jump. This wonderful riverside town is a hub of culture and tradition, nestled in the mountains. While there, see the ornate Hofburg Palace and the iconic 16th-century Goldenes Dachl, the gold-clad roof and balcony, from where the nobility would address the townspeople. The Swarovski Crystal Worlds in Wattens, where the world-renowned crystal-manufacturing company was founded, demand a visit. Here, there’s a dazzling array of creations inspired by crystals, designed by local and international artists.
Admire the beautiful landscape of the state with a tour through the Pinzgau and Ziller Valleys. Stop in the charming ski town of Kitzbühel and at the cascading waterfalls at Krimml. You could take a steam train journey to serene Lake Achen, where you can cruise in the heart of the Alps. Furthermore, just a short drive away lies Salzburg, perhaps most famous as Mozart’s birthplace and setting for ‘The Sound of Music’. It boasts ornate palaces and the beautiful Hohensalzburg castle.
We recommend enjoying this beautiful Alpine state with a stay at the welcoming, family-run Hotel Brückenwirt in the picturesque town of St. Johann im Pongau. Recently inspected by Greatdays’ staff, it offers an extensive buffet breakfast and three course evening meals with open selection menu. With a wonderful pool and relaxation area, there is surely no better base for a tour of Austria.
Dates
End of August - November 2024
Suggested Itinerary
Day 1
Depart the UK
Depart your home town and head to Austria, with an overnight stay in either France or Germany.
Day 2
Arrive in Austria
Upon arrival at the hotel, why not have a wander around the town and admire the scenery?
Day 3
Bauernherbst in Hof bei Salzburg
Today, head to Hof bei Salzburg, a truly magnificent town for the Farmers Autumn Festival. There will be processions, dancing, food and of course, beer!
Mingle with the locals and savour this real authentic Austrian experience – this is not to be missed!
Day 4
Innsbruck and Crystals
No Tyrolean tour would be complete without a visit to the Alpine state’s cultural capital – Innsbruck. Why not visit the Bergisel Ski Jump, a venue for both the 1964 and 1976 Winter Olympics which boasts unparalleled views over Innsbruck. Perhaps enjoy a refreshment in the tower’s panoramic restaurant before spending some time in Innsbruck’s historic old town. The famous Goldenes Dachl – Golden Roof – is the symbol of the city and well worth seeing. The town centre’s Hofburg Palace is a beautiful example of Austrian imperial architecture, housing fascinating exhibits on Tyrolean culture and the House of Hapsburg.
After exploring Innsbruck, perhaps head to the nearby town of Wattens to experience the stunning Swarovski Crystal Worlds. The museum’s Chambers of Wonder offer fascinating cystalline designs by international artists. As easy as it is to while away the afternoon marvelling at these sparkling and thought-provoking creations, the Crystal Worlds’ gardens and hedge maze are not to be missed, as is the store with the world’s most expansive collection of Swarovski products.
Day 5
Kitzbühel, Krimml Waterfalls and the Ziller Valley
In the morning, why not head off to discover the picturesque Ziller and Pinzgau Valleys. The first stop could be the idyllic ski resort of Kitzbühel, where one can soak up the mountain air before continuing to the famous Krimml Waterfalls. Europe’s highest free-falling cascades, the lowest of the falls is reached with a gentle 30-minute stroll, and is well worth the effort.
Perhaps continue through the Ziller valley, with a return steam train from Jenbach to Seespitz, on the banks of Lake Achen. Here you can also board a boat for a leisurely afternoon lake cruise, before returning to the hotel in the evening.
Day 6
Day at leisure
After a cultural few days, why not take this opportunity to use the leisure facilities at the hotel and have a day to unwind?
Day 7
Depart Austria
It’s time to say goodbye to this amazing country, and begin your journey home. Overnight in either France or Germany.
Day 8
Head back to the UK
Take the ferry at Calais and continue your journey home.
Featured hotel – Inspected by Greatdays staff in August 2017
Hotel Brückenwirt, St. Johann im Pongau
Popular centrally located family-run hotel. All bedrooms with balcony and seating area. The hotel has a lift to all floors, restaurant with menu choice for dinner, café and sun terrace. Free entrance to wellness area and sauna. Live music and dancing (seasonal). Free coach parking available at the hotel.
Hotel Brückenwirt, St Johann im Pongau, Austria
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| Dates | Half Twin | Single Supplement |
| End of August – November 2024 | From £439.00 per person | £119.00 single supplement |
