Salzburg, Mozart and the Sound of Music

Some of the prime cultural attractions for me would always be Salzburg and Vienna in Austria because of my passion for classical music. How vain of me to actually ride into Salzburg on the bicycle in the simplest of transport options unless you go with the horse and buggy. Over four and a half days I rode from Innsbruck following the dedicated bicycle trails through the valleys and meandering through villages.

You really have to keep watch for the little markers pointing in the direction you need to go. I passed through villages like Jenbach, Schwaz, Weigel, Kufstein in Austria and momentarily crossing over into Germany then east back into Austria.

Austria's smallest chapel?

 

The Berghof residence was Adolf Hitler's vacation home and is located in these mountains

Germany welcomes me for a short visit

In Scwaz I stopped for morning tea and looked at the display specials board outside. It had Apple Studel oder Topfen mit caffee. Mmm? ..... OK - I knew topfen was Austrian for what we would call a low fat ricotta cheese and oder must be or and mit must be with so. No one spoke english and I did not speak German so I just pointed at the board outside and asked for apple strudel mit caffee Americana and politely guided to a nice window seat. Before long a glass of water arrives with a small buscuit to start with. How nice (learn from this Australia hospitality industry!) to be treated with courtesy and respect as a visitor. I have found in all the countries I have visited how good the service is and how little they charge - they've had a lot of years to practice but I find that 'service' must be an important personal attribute and they're genuine interest is refreshing.

Mozart born in room with open window

Entrance to Cemetry

I gave myself three days in Salzburg and another three in Vienna to visit the obvious historical sites and neighbourhoods of Mozart (Salzburg) and Beethoven (Vienna) and include a concert where possible.

Mozart's father's grave

It's hard to describe how I felt when walking through the narrow stoned-paved streets where Mozart had walked on his way to music or social engagements. My IPod worked it's way through the Mozart playlist to add a little more atmosphere. I also download some self guided tour mp3 audio files to soak up the history.

By chance I turned down a side lane and discovered a small entrance to this peaceful private cemetery where Mozart's wife and father were buried. How extroadinary to come across these as I was actually looking for a washroom. That really puts things in perspective!

Mozart's wife's grave

Salzburg has a charming old city centre with baroque architecture and the city's fortress Festung Hohensalzburg, was built in 1077. That's and impressive age for a super structure. and not high up in the alps which was my original impression - nothing like seeing to remove the assumptions. Apparently the town's name means "Salt Fortress". It derives its name from the barges carrying salt on the river which were subject to a toll in the 8th century.

Bicycle parking Salzburg style

Salzburg was also the setting for the 1960's film The Sound of Music.

The only negative experience was being told by one hotel staff member not to come back and choose a hostel next time. She did not like touring cyclists or what she termed me as a "camper'. I knew I was going to have an unpleasant exit with her after I complimented her on the nice breakfast and she was quite obtuse in response. Other hotel staff certainly appreciated my acknowledgment of their good service and clean accommodation.

Now to head east to Vienna.

 

Posted with Blogsy