Gmunden

Gmunden, a small town in Upper Austria, is set against the striking backdrop of the Traunstein mountain, rising majestically above Lake Traunsee. This lakeside town is known for its production of Gmundner Keramik, distinctive hand-painted pottery, and the Schloss Ort, an ancient castle situated on a tiny island connected to the mainland by a wooden bridge. While the town's promenade along Lake Traunsee offers scenic views and a relaxing environment, the Gmunden Mountain Tram, one of the oldest in the world, provides access to stunning panoramic vistas.

Schloss Ort

One of Gmunden's key historical sites is Schloss Ort, an impressive 13th-century castle located on an island in Lake Traunsee. It's accessible via a wooden bridge and offers visitors a look into the town's medieval past. The castle also famously serves as the backdrop for the Austrian television series "Schlosshotel Orth." For those interested in the local handicrafts, Gmunden is synonymous with Gmundner Keramik, which are ceramics known for their hand-painted designs. You can tour the Gmundner Keramik factory to see how these unique pieces are crafted.

Outdoor Activities on Traunsee Lake

Lake Traunsee, Austria's second-deepest lake, invites visitors to enjoy a variety of water sports, such as sailing, windsurfing, and swimming. Boating enthusiasts can rent electric boats to experience the lake's calm waters, while those looking for a more guided exploration can take a tour on the traditional paddle steamer Gisela, offering picturesque views of the surrounding landscape.

Grünberg Mountain

For a panoramic view of Gmunden and Traunsee, a hiking trip or cable car ride up Grünberg Mountain is a must. The mountain has well-marked trails suitable for all levels, and the top provides a breathtaking view of the lake and the Traunstein mountain. Additionally, Grünberg features an adventure park with various activities for families and individuals alike.

Transportation: Gmunden Tramway

Getting around Gmunden is made easy thanks to the historic Gmundner Straßenbahn (Gmunden tramway). This tramway is not only practical for travelling between attractions but also offers a unique charm as one of the oldest in the world. It connects the town center to notable destinations like Grünberg cable car station.

Cultural Events

Throughout the year, Gmunden hosts several festivals and cultural events that showcase its rich tradition and arts scene. Among these events is the yearly Seeschloss Ort opera, performed in the unique setting of Schloss Ort, offering a dynamic arts experience with the stunning lake and mountains serving as a natural stage backdrop.

Kammerhof Museums Gmunden

Culture enthusiasts will appreciate the Kammerhof Museums Gmunden, which provide insight into the town's history and cultural development. The museums house exhibits on the salt trade that played a crucial role in Gmunden's economic growth, as well as local art and historical artifacts.