Hallein

In winter, you'll find a ski area here with a pleasant size and peaceful location, offering perfect conditions for both large and small skiers, snowboarders, and tourers. In the summer, you can also enjoy a thrilling ride on the "Keltenblitz," Austria's longest summer toboggan run. The Dürrnberg is especially famous for its historical roots: Numerous excavations prove that the Celts settled here over 2,500 years ago. They were also the first to access the rich salt deposits. Insights into their way of life are provided at the Celtic village on the Dürrnberg, which you can visit along with the salt mine.

In the valley, the most valuable and interesting artifacts from the Celtic period are displayed at the Hallein Celtic Museum.

Hallein is the second-largest city in the state of Salzburg. The old town, with its narrow medieval streets, invites you to stroll, eat ice cream, and walk around. The entire area is a protected heritage site. The salt, known as "white gold," was transported via the Salzach River and made the region wealthy and worth seeing even in the Middle Ages. This is also reflected in the "hall" in the name, a Celtic word for "salt."

Franz Xaver Gruber, one of the creators of the world-famous song "Silent Night, Holy Night," hailed from Hallein. A museum dedicated to him is located at the parish church.