Explore Bad Gastein's thermal spas, historical architecture, and outdoor activities in Austria's alpine landscape.
Bad Gastein, a town in the Hohe Tauern mountains of Austria, is known for its thermal springs, Belle Époque buildings, and a central waterfall. This former retreat of European nobility has ski runs, hiking paths, and spas using the town's radon-rich waters. You'll find grand hotels on steep mountainsides and views of surrounding peaks. From Bad Gastein, you can explore the natural landscape of the Gastein Valley.
Location in the Austrian Alps
Bad Gastein is at 1,000 meters elevation in the Gastein Valley, part of Austria's Salzburgerland province. The town clings to the steep slopes of the Hohe Tauern mountain range, creating a terraced layout. Its high alpine position results in cool summers and snowy winters, making it suitable for visits year-round. You'll find two other spa towns in the Gastein Valley - Bad Hofgastein and Dorfgastein - but Bad Gastein is the largest and most well-known.
Thermal Springs and Spa Culture
Thermal springs are central to Bad Gastein's identity and have drawn visitors since the Middle Ages. The area has 18 springs, with water temperatures up to 46°C. The spring water contains radon, which some believe has health benefits. You can soak in the thermal waters at the Felsentherme spa complex, which has indoor and outdoor pools overlooking the mountains. Many hotels have their own thermal baths. For something different, visit the Gastein Healing Gallery, where you can breathe radon-infused air in a former gold mine tunnel.
Skiing and Winter Sports
In winter, Bad Gastein becomes a busy ski resort. The town is part of the Ski Amadé network, giving you access to over 200 km of slopes. The main ski area, Schlossalm-Angertal-Stubnerkogel, has runs for all skill levels. If you're an advanced skier, try the steep slopes of Sportgastein. Locals often prefer the smaller Graukogel area. Besides downhill skiing, you can go cross-country skiing, snowboarding, or winter hiking. The ski season usually lasts from late November to early April.
Belle Époque Architecture
Bad Gastein's popularity as a resort in the late 19th and early 20th centuries resulted in many Belle Époque buildings. As you walk through town, you'll see grand hotels and villas in various conditions. Some examples include the Art Nouveau-style Haus Austria and the large Grand Hotel de l'Europe. While some buildings have been renovated and repurposed, others are empty, giving parts of town an unusual atmosphere. This architectural style sets Bad Gastein apart from typical Alpine resorts.
Hiking and Summer Activities
When snow melts, Bad Gastein's mountains become a hiking destination. You'll find trails for all abilities, from easy valley walks to challenging summit climbs. Many hikers enjoy the panoramic trail on the Stubnerkogel, which includes a 140-meter suspension bridge with Alpine views. Mountain biking is also common, with trails ranging from family-friendly routes to difficult downhill tracks. For a more relaxed activity, play a round at the 18-hole Gastein Golf Club, one of Austria's highest courses.
How to Reach Bad Gastein
You can reach Bad Gastein easily by road or rail. The nearest airport is in Salzburg, about 90 minutes away by car. If you're traveling by train, you can take direct connections from Vienna, Salzburg, and Innsbruck. The town's historic train station, which opened in 1905, is at the upper end of town. In Bad Gastein, you can use local buses or the funicular railway that connects the lower and upper parts of town. Remember that the town's steep layout can make walking difficult in some areas.
