Taking the ferry across the lake was breathtaking, but not quite as much as some of the views to be experienced simply walking in and around this lakeside town. Shallow and narrow ground, picturesque views, and a lake that was so still and calm it was positively reflective unless disturbed by boat or animal, surrounded by lush green forestry on almost all sides.
Landing in the town we set off to explore, dropped off our luggage at the bed and breakfast we were staying at, and promptly grabbed the cameras to take advantage of the practically perfect weather. Our first stop was a funicular tram up to about 700 meters, to explore a few kilometers of trail connecting the tram station to an old salt mine. We didn't go in because we didn't really care about the salt mine -- the UNESCO World Heritage Site photography ledge, on the other hand, was completely in our plans. After some amazing photos off the ledge and over Lake Hallstatt we found a winding trail that looped behind the mountain and mirrored some waterfalls down the back of the mountain. We explored around the south end of town and found an island beach where we decided to take a breather. I may or may not have been persuaded to wade out into the [frickin' cold!] water, but it was great.
Because apparently that wasn't enough, we enjoyed a delightful dinner along the water with some roasted trout that was caught from the lake itself, and then finished off the evening with some gorgeous night shots of the village.
