About Upper Austria

The state of Upper Austria is on the northern border, adjoining Germany and the Czech Republic and contains some of Austria's most beautiful scenery. It has over 1.4 million inhabitants, many of whom live and work in the capital city of Linz. Upper Austria is divided into four regions: Traunviertel, Innviertel, Muhlviertel and Hausrickviertel and they are further divided into 15 bezirke or districts.

Its interesting history has left it with a rich legacy of beautiful architecture, castles, churches and a vibrant arts and music inheritance for visitors to enjoy. During the Middle Ages, Upper Austria belonged to the Duchy of Styria before becoming a self-governing principality within the Holy Roman Empire. During the 17th century it was part of Bavaria, hence the Austro-Bavarian language that is spoken here. In more recent times it was the home of Adolf Hitler and became the Reichsgau Oberdonau.

Some of the highlights for visitors staying in Zimmers or country lodging in Upper Austria include its lakes, mountains and forests. The baroque town of Scharding is particularly popular. Behind the colorful mediaeval city gates are winding narrow streets brimming with history, and a beautiful riverfront with holiday apartments and bed and breakfast establishments. It has stunning architecture spanning a variety of periods and styles. Look for the row of Silberzeile houses, once owned by rich market traders whose pockets were always full of silver.

Nearby, Lake Wolfgang is said to be the most beautiful lake in the region and is popular in summer for boating and bathing and in winter for skating. To the north of the River Danube is the Muehlviertel, a hilly agricultural region which is ideal for quiet walking holidays and country lodging. A typical dish of Upper Austria is bauernschmaus, a hearty stew of pork and sausages served with sauerkraut and knodels.