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Discover the prettiest villages in Austria

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Heiligenbrunn
Heiligenbrunn in Burgenland is known for its so-called “kellerviertel” which you find in the vineyards around the village. Its main attraction is the characteristic small whitewashed houses, many of them with thatched roofs, which create a unique atmosphere. Nonetheless, the atypical architecture makes this one of Austria’s prettiest villages. Strolling among the picturesque houses, constructed between the 17th and 19th centuries, is like travelling back into history. Most of the basement houses are privately owned. Some work as small wine shops where you can taste and buy Uhudler products. Others have been converted to summer cottages to let. A couple function as museums, where you can see wine presses and other items related to wine production.

Bad Waltersdorf
In 2003, Bad Waltersdorf in Styria was awarded the gold plaque as the “most beautiful village in Europe” by Entente Florale. The village is picturesquely situated among gently rolling hills, covered with vineyards and fruit orchards. Vivid floral decorations on the bridges across the creek Safen, which flows through the village, is adding to the rural idyll. Bad Waltersdorf was inhabited already in Roman times. Most of the historic buildings are found around the church from 1690, such as the rectory of 1774. Just outside the village, there is a thermal spa Heiltherme Bad Waltersdorf.

Mauterndorf
Mauterndorf, located in the Lungau region at the southeastern tip of Salzburgerland, is a real gem. It is a picturesque, well-preserved medieval village in the middle of the Alps. Take your time and explore Austria’s prettiest villages to discover medieval architecture, traditional houses, and the odd henhouse. After all, the village centre mainly consists of historic buildings that add great character to the place. An unmissable landmark in Mauterndorf is the medieval castle that towers over the village.

Straden
Even in Austria, where pretty villages dot the landscape throughout the country, this tiny hilltop hamlet stands out. This is not only because of the lovely village but also because of its location. Standen’s three church towers dominate its skyline. Enjoy the picturesque countryside views in southeastern Styria from the viewing platform. Browse through the delicatessen shop and relax in the small square with a coffee and cake.