Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Carinthia
Why Go?
Few regions in Europe match the rugged beauty of Carinthia, and you'll find that travel-
ling through it is often a serpentine journey in valleys and natural conduits. Carinthia can
also, at times, seem larger than life with its spectacularly high peaks; its gouged valleys
and glistening lakes; the flamboyant show of opulence in the capital, Klagenfurt; and the
resorts around the more famous of the region's 1270 pristine mountain lakes. The most
popular of these lakes, such as the large Wörthersee, have waters warmed to a comfortable
swimming temperature by thermal springs.
Carinthia's deep medieval heritage is another attraction - celebrated in picturesque
walled villages such as Friesach and Gmünd, and impressive castles such as the hilltop
fortress of Hochosterwitz. Many of the towns and villages nestled in Carinthia's rolling
hills hold an annual summer festival, with roving performers coming from neighbouring
Italy and Slovenia to take part alongside the locals.
When to Go
»
Midsummer is the time to make the most of Carinthia's lakes and excellent mountain
hiking. Because it gets more sunshine than elsewhere in Austria, lake temperatures are
warmer.
»
In winter the province morphs into one of Austria's best ski regions, despite having a
shorter ski season than elsewhere due to the warmer temps.
»
The shoulder-season periods are less interesting here except for valley hiking or cycling.
Despite a couple of gems, the museum landscape is fairly limited in Carinthia - the activit-
ies seasons are therefore the best time to visit.
Best Places to Stay
»
Arcotel Moser Verdino (
Click here
)
»
Hotel Palais Porcia (
Click here
)
»
Hotel Mosser (
Click here
)
