What makes the countryside of the Hohe Tauern NP this special and attractive, is its untouched nature and varied landscapes, including majestic peaks, remote valleys, crystal-clear mountain lakes, lush meadows filled with wild flowers, magnificent glacier streams and cascades. Moreover, it is home to a variety of species such as the bearded vulture, capricorns and groundhogs. Spend your vacation away from the day-to-day stresses and explore nature’s most breathtaking wonder in the Hohe Tauern national park which forms the southern end of the province of Salzburg.

The name Hohe Tauern derives from the word "Tauern", a commonly used expression for the passes that have been used since ancient times for crossing the highly glaciated range. Furthermore, the region was once known as the realm of witches and warlocks, wizards and weirdos who functioned as a bridge between humanity and the wild forces beyond thereby helping people be less afraid of the mystical powers. Still today you can feel the connection between the people of the region and the overwhelming power of the elemental forces of nature.

The park covers an area of 1,800 km² and is the largest nature reserve in the Alps and the second largest in Europe. It is known as one of the most spectacular landscapes on earth and is home to a unique world of flora and fauna. As an island of true nature in the heart of Europe it boasts some of the highest summits of Austria (Mount Großglockner - Austria’s highest mountain - and Mount Großvenediger), large glacial areas, outstanding waterfalls and a rich cultural heritage. Moreover, even the difference in altitude in the national park is impressive measuring almost 2,600 meters from its lowest point to the peak of Mt. Großglockner.

The natural history of the Hohe Tauern was marked by colossal events such as the ice age but also by the changes of nature itself. Animals and plants have learnt to adapt to the extreme conditions of the high mountains: soils poor in nutrients, extreme temperatures, rain and sun. However, no other national park in Austria has so many hidden treasures for you to explore than the Hohe Tauern NP.

Fall brings the celebration of harvest time to Austria’s rural areas. This is the time when the cattle are driven down from the Alpine pastures to the home stables and the bountiful crop is being harvested. Just the right time to celebrate summer drawing to a close... The celebration of harvest time also spreads over the Hohe Tauern NP by summer’s end: This year’s harvest festival - called the Farmer’s Fall - is celebrated from September 4 until October 26, 2005, in the 19 villages located in the Hohe Tauern NP. The event is accompanied by folk music and singing and every one will be pampered with culinary specialties of the region.
Every year more visitors are drawn to participate in the celebration where you experience traditional rural culture in its original form. A comprehensive Farmer’s Fall Program has been compiled for the guests: this year, the Farmer’s Fall opening party takes place on September 4, 2005, in the village of Taxenbach. According to the motto “Celebration-Tasting-Culture” there will be something for everyone: there is the possibility to listen to folk music, watch colorful traditional costume processions or simply experience local culture and rural life at typical farmers’ markets where you are welcome to sample local culinary delicacies. Craftsmanship such as wreath making and statue carving are deeply rooted in the tradition of the locals. Of course, in rural Austria any great event in the calendar is a reason for a festival and few are greater than the coming home of the cattle for winter. On this special occasion, the cows are decked out in garlands of flowers and ribbons, with bells attached to their heavy leather collars - an old tradition in which the farmers express their gratitude to God for His protection of the cattle. A truly colorful and memorable spectacle! And a great opportunity to listen to authentic folk music and to taste genuine specialties and delights such as Kasnocken (small dumplings with melted cheese) and homemade rowan berry schnapps. Don’t forget to purchase flavorsome Pinzgau cheese or smoked beef and bacon or other local products at the farms.

The golden fall in the Hohe Tauern National Park is also the best time for hiking tours. A wealth of walks for walkers of all abilities, from leisurely walks over broad Alpine meadows to more difficult mountain scrambles, await you. Do not miss out on the incredible views and breathtaking fall scenery in the national park.