Travelling to Advent locations on both sides of the Alps
In Carinthia amid illuminated cities, lakes and mountain lights
Illuminated towns, tranquil lakes and snow-capped mountains: the Christmas season in Carinthia is an experience to be enjoyed with all the senses, mixing the tradition of the markets with the landscapes and atmospheres typical of this region. On Lake Wörthersee, Velden becomes the 'City of Angels' with a large floating wreath and its famous illuminated stalls: don't miss the 'Advent above the clouds' at the foot of the Pyramidenkogel, the living nativity scene in Pörtschach and the meditative concerts in the Maria Wörth pilgrimage church. On the Millstättersee lake, the Lichtweg im Advent guides visitors along a path of light installations among talking trees and boats that reveal the winter landscape from the water, while in Villach, the symbol of the festivities is the decorated cathedral tower that dominates the old town with its handicraft markets and skating rink on Rathausplatz. Finally, in Klagenfurt, the Hafenknistern on the Lendhafen harbour offers concerts and creative workshops. But it is in the Alpine areas of Carinthia that Advent shows its most authentic face. In Bad Kleinkirchheim, the lights of the handicraft stalls mingle with those of the thermal baths and ski slopes, on the Katschberg, at 1,700 metres, the Advent Trail can be travelled on foot or by carriage along the Wichtelweg route amidst mountain huts, herbal teas and old songs. In the Hohe Tauern National Park, in Mallnitz, Christmas can be experienced by walking on a 3.5-kilometre loop trail with a market, toboggans and children's workshops. In just one weekend you can experience this magic thanks to the transport provided by the S-Bahn (the guest card allows free travel on regional trains) and shuttle buses that quickly connect the various locations.
