Hallstätt, Austria

Hallstätt, which is bordered by the snow-capped Dachstein Mountains and situated on the banks of Hallstätter See, is a picturesque Alpine village full of fairy-tale churches from the 12th century. Hallstätt is a small town with less than 1,000 permanent residents who lives there in Alpine timber homes that have been stacked up on the steep hill slopes.

Today, Hallstatt's old-world appeal comes from its remote Alpine location and its 500–600-year-old terraced houses and more from the relaxed, easygoing atmosphere and hospitable residents. The favorite things to do in Hallstatt, besides meandering the charming streets, are excursions to the nearby salt mine, the Bone Chapel, massive Ice Caves, and boat rides on the imposing lake. Hallstätt is equally beautiful all year round, but it truly shines when it is coated in snow and ice. The Hallstatt Skywalk, located high above the town, offers the best view of winter Hallstätt if you're feeling up to the challenge, but getting there takes a hike that isn't always feasible in the dead of winter.