We can all agree that Austria doesn’t have anything to prove.
Here is a country whose capital city once stood at the heart of a mighty empire. Whose breathtaking Alpine landscapes forever echo with The Sound of Music. It’s a destination that gave birth to one of history’s most celebrated composers; not to mention the delicious chocolates that carry his name. And one that can make something as simple as a glass of beer feel like the pinnacle of refinement.
But beyond Vienna’s imperial palaces and celebrated symphonies lies another kind of Austria. One defined by meaningful encounters, local stories, and exclusive experiences that most travelers would never have access to on their own.
And Austria by Travelive has five such experiences waiting for them today.
Alpine Heritage & Hidden Landscapes from Vienna
As far as first impressions go, Vienna certainly makes a big one. But while its imperial grandeur is hard to top, just one hour beyond the city lies something that may be up to the challenge.
Climb aboard the UNESCO-listed Semmering Railway, the world’s first high-altitude railway, and you shall journey through soaring viaducts, dramatic Alpine scenery, and elegant mountain retreats once favored by Europe’s cultural elite.
From there, a cable car to the Rax Plateau then reveals panoramic views of the Eastern Alps, setting the stage for lunch at historic landmarks such as the iconic Loos Villa or the storied Knappenhof, once frequented by Sigmund Freud (cigars not included).
See Who It’s Perfect For
Repeat visitors, history enthusiasts, architecture lovers, and clients seeking a sophisticated day beyond Vienna.
The Semmering Railway
Completed in 1854, the Semmering Railway was the world's first mountain railway built to standard gauge, a groundbreaking feat of engineering that earned it UNESCO World Heritage status in 1998. Winding through 16 viaducts, 15 tunnels, and more than 100 stone bridges, it forever changed Alpine travel while inspiring generations of artists, writers, and composers who flocked to the surrounding mountain resorts.
Wildlife, Wine & Lakeside Living in Burgenland
Exploring Austria without witnessing its natural gifts is just, well, unnatural. And there are few better places to do so than Burgenland.
Accompanied by a private park ranger, hop into an electric vehicle and venture across the wetlands of Lake Neusiedl National Park, a UNESCO-listed biosphere reserve where rare birdlife and tranquil landscapes showcase one of the country’s most treasured natural habitats.
Continue savoring nature’s gifts with a tasting at a renowned local winery, followed by a visit to the charming outdoor museum of Wander Bertoni whose exquisite statues themselves enjoy a day outdoors. All before arriving in the lakeside town of Rust for coffee and traditional Austrian cake overlooking the water.
See Who It’s Perfect For
Nature lovers, birdwatchers, wine enthusiasts, and travelers seeking a slower, more authentic side of Austria.
Meet Austrian Nobility in Southern Styria
Arriving in the heart of an empire, one kind of expects a royal welcome. So, why not receive one?
Journey into the rolling vineyards of Southern Styria for an exclusive private visit to historic Kornberg Castle. There, Baron Bardeau himself will personally host visitors and share fascinating stories of the estate’s history, traditions, and family heritage, offering a glimpse into a world rarely accessible to travelers.
Continue your discovery of Styria with a visit to a traditional Buschenschank, where locally produced wines and regional delicacies are served in an atmosphere that has welcomed guests for generations. The day concludes with a tasting among the vineyards surrounding Castle Gamlitz, one of Austria’s most beautiful wine estates.
See Who It’s Perfect For
History enthusiasts, wine lovers, repeat visitors, and travelers seeking truly exclusive cultural encounters.
What Is a Buschenschank?
A Buschenschank is a traditional Austrian wine tavern, where local winemakers serve their own wines alongside simple, homemade specialties such as cured meats, cheeses, fresh bread, and seasonal spreads. Dating back to an imperial decree issued by Emperor Joseph II in 1784, Buschenschanken remain one of the most authentic ways to experience Austria's wine culture and warm countryside hospitality.
Discover the Salzkammergut Beyond Hallstatt
Hallstatt may steal the spotlight, but the surrounding Salzkammergut Lake District deserves plenty of its own.
Begin by exploring the turquoise waters of Lake Fuschl before visiting a private trout fishery, where freshly smoked trout is served overlooking the lake.
Continue to St. Gilgen, the birthplace of Mozart’s mother, and tailor the day to your pace with a mountain cable car, an easy alpine hike, or a private boat cruise across Lake Wolfgang to a lakeside restaurant or mountain chalet.
For those looking to venture even further off the beaten path, discover a centuries-old forest water mill, sample homemade specialties prepared using traditional methods, or learn the delicious art of Austrian apple strudel in a private villa overlooking Lake Mondsee.
See Who It’s Perfect For
Families, multigenerational groups, culinary travelers, and repeat visitors to Austria.
A Private Lakeside Retreat at Lake Traun
What could be more delightful than a day at a lake house? Maybe only one set in Austria.
Invite your travelers to spend the afternoon at a private lakeside estate reserved exclusively for them, where crystal-clear waters invite a refreshing swim, sun loungers provide the perfect excuse to unwind, and an electric boat offers a peaceful way to explore Lake Traun.
Back on shore, freshly caught fish is grilled lakeside and served alongside Austrian wines, homemade desserts, and the kind of warm hospitality that never feels hurried.
For those wishing to venture beyond the estate, the renowned Gmunden Ceramics Manufactory and the spectacular views from Traunstein Mountain are both within easy reach.
It is an elegant addition to any Austrian journey, and one travelers will wish lasted just a little longer.
See Who It’s Perfect For
Families, honeymooners, luxury couples, and clients celebrating milestone occasions.
Austria's Finest Ceramics
For more than five centuries, Gmunden Ceramics has been one of Austria's most celebrated craft traditions. Still painted by hand using techniques passed down through generations, each piece is instantly recognizable by its distinctive green flame pattern, a design that has become a symbol of Austrian craftsmanship.
Going Beyond
Austria’s timeless cities may be the country’s grand introduction, but they are only the beginning of what this destination has to offer.
And Austria by Travelive knows that. With on-the-ground knowledge, trusted local partnerships, and access to exclusive experiences, our team helps travel advisors craft personalized itineraries that bring the very best of Austria to life, revealing a side of it few ever get to experience.
Ready to see what that looks like? Then contact Austria by Travelive at [email protected] and help them discover Austria beyond the guidebook and beyond expectations!
