The ‘fairytale’ winter village that’s so beautiful locals block tourists from entering
Share:
Nestled in Austria’s stunning Salzkammergut region, the picturesque village of Hallstatt is a popular spot with travellers from all over the world. With its charming storybook looks, a rich history and breathtaking scenery, it’s no surprise this magical hamlet is one of Austria’s top destinations.
Hallstatt is home to an array of colourful houses and an historic market square that sit nestled between the mountains and a tranquil lake. In fact, the picture-postcard look of the place is so pretty it is believed to have inspired the enchanting kingdom of Arendelle in Disney’s Frozen .
The tiny village is home to around just 800 residents and is beloved by Instagrammers and influencers alike for its scenic beauty. But much more than just a pretty face, the village was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997 with roots trace back to the Iron Age and beyond.
READ MORE: UK peninsula with Caribbean-like beaches and crystal waters perfect for holiday. But the fairytale village is not without it's problems as it can be is swamped with up to 10,000 visitors daily at peak times, giving locals growing cause for concern. In fact, Hallstatt is so popular with Chinese tourists that a life-size replica of the village has been constructed in Guangdong.
Residents have called for limits on visitor numbers and a ban on tour buses after 5pm, citing disruptions to their peaceful way of life. In a bold protest last summer, approximately 100 locals blocked the village’s main tunnel for 15 minutes, holding signs with messages like "Emergency brake now!" and "Think of our children.".
