A photo diary of travel life in Carinthia, Austria (featuring tips before you go and what to do in Millstätt)
Although Vienna has been on my travel list for a while, my first time in Austria was actually in the South, out in a small market town. Picturesque and peaceful, the vibrant green and rolling hills make for the most idyllic backdrop to recharge for a little. Since our destination was a more rural part of Austria, there wasn’t a very close airport. In fact, it’s easier (for international flights) to fly into Munich, Germany or Venice, Italy and make the long drive out to Carinthia.
After first spending some time in Germany, I was able to see a lot of southern Austria while we drove to our bed and breakfast in the area around Millstätter See. (And while I normally advocate for trying local restaurants, the McDonald’s we had along the way had some beautiful-looking cakes at the Cafe).
Millstätt, a small town bordering Millstätter See (the most beautiful lake), is full of charm. Known as a rural resort-town with a rejuvenating atmosphere, Millstätt am See is the most lovely escape. A portion of the lake, near the local grocery store, was a hub of activity. Families were using the diving boards, swimming, and tanning out on the shore. However, a little bit further down the lake, where many of the hotels and pensions have private docks, things are much quieter.
With kayaks, boats, and plenty of space to swim, the lake is the biggest draw in the area. I also loved going for a morning walk around the lake and saw many people out biking as well. Aside from the Lake and towns, there are some lovely hiking trails and chapels (check out Stiftskirche Millstatt, a local chapel here) to check-out. And… I spent a little too much time watching Gilmore Girls dubbed in German – but it was a very rejuvenating experience!
Billa, the local grocery store, makes it easy to grab a few snacks and things, but most people recommend checking out Butcher’s. The food truck next to the actual building is only open for a little bit throughout the week, but everyone raved about their meals.
Opening hours were interesting – I definitely walked to businesses only to find them closed for a little. In fact, as a more rural area, the pace of the town is generally relaxed over all. If you are planning your own trip to the area, just keep in mind that things will be closed for Catholic holidays (the town is predominantly Catholic), national holidays, and during select hours for breaks and/or mass.
Lastly, navigating the town and surrounding areas by foot was pretty easy and most of the shop owners or workers spoke a fair bit of English. However, before I go again, I’d love to brush up on the language a little bit more to enhance the trip experience even more. I’d also suggest bringing along a good amount of cash (a few places were cash only!).
Austria was absolutely beautiful and I look forward to visiting again! When you travel, do you prefer going to bustling cities or to the easy-going countryside?
TL;DR Travels 
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