3 Breathtaking Wine Views from Austria

There are places on this Earth that can just immediately take your breath away, and I find Austria is most certainly one of them. It does not matter what time of the year you visit because the views are simply that stunning all 365 days. The crisp, blue lakes surrounded by the steep sloping mountains create a vision like no other. That's why we had to make our way there after Oktoberfest fun in Munich.

Being Germany's neighbor, my husband drove me and our friends to Salzburg, Austria for a short 3 day stay. "The hills are alive in the sound of music" was playing over and over in my head as we reached our destination at The Mozart Hotel. While it may seem a bit touristy to stay at a hotel named after the world renowned composer who was born in this charming city, I am here to tell you otherwise. It is situated in a prime location with just a short walk to Mirabell Palace and Gardens (picture Sound of Music's 'Do-Re-Mi' scene), modern decor and breakfast included, which is always a win.

With just a 25 min. walk and 54 sec. ride via a modern funicular, we were at Fortress Hohensalzburg stepping back in time while taking in the beauty of Salzburg from above. On the way back, we strolled through Old Town for shopping, eating and, of course, cheers'ing!

On our second day, we drove to Hallstatt to capture the stunning scenery from Salzwelten, an ancient salt mine. The views from the Skywalk are sensational so be sure to spend some time up there! Once you've finished instagramming away, have yourself a bite to eat and sip to drink at the restaurant in the Rudolfsturm (old defense tower) and soak in the views.

And that's the recap from our quick trip to Austria before heading back Stateside.. Prost/Cheers!

View from Fortress Hohensalzburg in Salzburg:

Views from Hallstatt's Skywalk: