Restaurant Stofflwirt is a Carinthian classic with a twist, serving up authentic Austrian cuisine in a setting that’s equal parts cozy and scenic. Tucked away at Deutschberg 6 in Bodensdorf, this family-run spot is a favorite among locals and hungry travelers alike—and for good reason. Their menu features regional staples like Wiener Schnitzel, Kärntner Kasnudeln, and seasonal specialties, all prepared with fresh ingredients and a generous hand.
The location is a real showstopper: perched above Lake Ossiach, Stofflwirt boasts a sun terrace with panoramic views that practically beg you to linger over lunch. Whether you’re hiking the nearby trails, cycling through the hills, or just looking for a hearty meal with a side of Alpine charm, this is the place to refuel and relax. There’s even a playground for the kids, so everyone leaves happy.
If you’re after traditional flavors, warm hospitality, and a view that’ll make your Instagram followers jealous, Stofflwirt is the spot to put on your Carinthian itinerary.
Where centuries of stories, art, and Carinthian culture are packed into one charming townhouse in the heart of the city. Photo by Museum der Stadt Villach
Short Facts:
Duration of the journey from Chalet Bjoerk: About 40 minutes (approx. 42 km)
Recommended Equipment: Curiosity, comfy shoes, camera, and maybe a notebook for all those “aha!” moments
Location & History
The Villach City Museum (Museum der Stadt Villach) sits in a historic townhouse at Widmanngasse 38, right in Villach’s old town. Step inside and you’re stepping into the region’s past: from Roman relics to medieval treasures, the museum showcases the art, culture, and history of Villach and its surroundings. Each year, a special exhibition keeps things fresh—recent highlights include interactive peace labs and hands-on activities for families.
The museum’s romantic courtyard features a collection of Roman stones and a chunk of the old city wall—perfect for history buffs and Instagrammers alike. Founded in 1873, it’s a local legend in its own right.
The Adventure
Wander through themed rooms brimming with artefacts, paintings, and multimedia installations. Listen to stories on the audio guide, try out interactive stations, or let the kids loose on puzzle rallies and dress-up corners (museum dog Wunderwauzi might even lend a paw). The annual special exhibition adds a twist—think peace labs, tactile QR codes, and even a vibrating music box seat for a multi-sensory experience.
Accessibility is top-notch, with elevators, ramps, and sensory-friendly features throughout. Guided tours are available, including for visitors with special needs.
General Info
Check the official website for current opening hours, special exhibitions, and ticket prices.
Open from early May to early November, Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00–16:30 (closed Mondays except public holidays).
The museum is in the city centre, just a short walk from the main square and train station.
Villach City Museum is more than a collection of old things—it’s a living, breathing slice of Carinthian history, where every visit offers something new.
Pro Tips
Plan for about an hour—longer if you love to linger.
Families: Don’t miss the interactive stations and puzzle rallies.
Photography is welcome (no flash)—the courtyard is a hidden gem.
Combine your visit with a stroll through Villach’s old town or a stop at a nearby café.
Whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, or just looking for a unique way to spend a rainy afternoon, the Villach City Museum is a must-see, must-explore, must-experience stop in Carinthia.
Kärnten Therme Warmbad-Villach is where relaxation meets a splash of adrenaline, all under one stylish roof.
Short Facts:
Duration of the journey from Chalet Bjoerk: About 40 minutes (approx. 42 km)
Recommended Equipment: Swimsuit, flip-flops, towel, goggles, and a sense of adventure
Location & History
KärntenTherme Warmbad-Villach is Carinthia’s flagship spa and water world, located in the heart of Villach’s Warmbad district. This isn’t just a pool—it’s a full-blown aquatic experience for families, fitness buffs, and anyone who loves a good soak. The Therme taps into ancient thermal springs, celebrated for their healing powers since Roman times, and today boasts futuristic architecture, panoramic views, and enough slides to keep adrenaline levels high.
With thermal pools, high-speed water slides, and a “Relaxium” wellness zone, the Therme is a magnet for both thrill-seekers and those in search of pure tranquility. Whether you’re floating in the lazy river or sweating it out in the sauna, you’re in good company.
The Adventure
Kick off your visit with a plunge in the thermal pools, then rocket down the Speed Slide if you dare. Little ones can conquer the splash zones and water playground, while grown-ups sneak away to the sauna world for steam baths, guided infusions, and maybe a nap in the relaxation area. The fitness center offers everything from aqua cycling to yoga, if you want to earn your pastry at the café.
Don’t miss the rooftop terrace for a sun-soaked breather, or the cold plunge pool for a brisk wake-up call. Massages and beauty treatments are just a booking away—no spa admission needed.
General Info
Check the official website for current opening hours, ticket prices, and event info.
Bring a lock for your locker and a water bottle—hydration is non-negotiable.
The Therme is popular with families, athletes, and wellness-lovers, so expect a lively atmosphere and plenty of smiles.
KärntenTherme Warmbad-Villach isn’t just a spa—it’s Carinthia’s answer to “what should we do today?” with a side of healing springs and high spirits.
Pro Tips
Weekdays are quieter, weekends buzz with activity.
Book spa treatments and loungers ahead, especially during holidays.
Layer up for the sauna, but pack light for the pool.
Don’t rush—the best moments are the ones when you lose track of time.
Whether you’re a fitness fanatic, a family traveler, or just someone who believes in the restorative power of a good soak, KärntenTherme Warmbad-Villach is a must-dip, must-sweat, must-chill highlight of Carinthia.
High above the clouds: The Grossglockner Hochalpenstrasse carves its way through the Austrian Alps, promising adventure at every turn. Photo by Viktor Hanacek
Short Facts:
Duration of the journey from Chalet Bjoerk: About 1 hour 15 minutes (approx. 80 km)
Recommended Equipment: Camera, sunglasses, windbreaker, warm clothes, and a healthy respect for gravity
Location & History
The Grossglockner Hochalpenstrasse is Austria’s legendary high alpine road—a 48-kilometre ribbon of asphalt that snakes through the heart of the Hohe Tauern National Park, connecting Bruck in Salzburg to Heiligenblut in Carinthia. This is not just a road, folks; it’s an experience. With 36 hairpin bends, the route climbs to dizzying heights—Edelweißspitze at 2,571 meters, and the iconic Kaiser-Franz-Josefs-Höhe, with jaw-dropping views of Austria’s tallest peak, the mighty Grossglockner (3,798 m).
Built between 1930 and 1935, the road was Austria’s answer to the Great Depression—an ambitious feat of engineering and optimism. Today, it’s one of the country’s top tourist attractions, drawing car enthusiasts, hikers, cyclists, and anyone with a pulse and a penchant for panoramic vistas.
The Adventure
Start your ascent at the Ferleiten toll booth, and let the serpentine road lead you ever higher. Each turn delivers new scenery: lush valleys, alpine meadows, and, if you’re lucky, a cameo by a marmot or two. Stop at the Edelweißspitze for a 360-degree view of over 30 peaks above 3,000 meters. If you’re feeling particularly intrepid, branch off to the Kaiser-Franz-Josefs-Höhe for a close-up of the Pasterze Glacier and maybe a selfie with the Grossglockner itself.
Along the way, you’ll find themed exhibitions, hiking trails for all levels, and a chance to spot the “High Five” of Alpine wildlife: ibex, golden eagle, marmot, Apollo butterfly, and alpine bumblebee. Don’t forget to check out the Haus Alpine Naturschau—where you can geek out over crystals, flora, and fauna.
General Info
General Info
Check the official website for up-to-date opening times, toll prices, and weather conditions.
Expect cooler temperatures and sudden weather changes—pack accordingly.
The road is popular with classic car rallies and cyclists, so don’t be surprised if you share your panoramic picnic with a vintage Porsche or a Lycra-clad peloton.
The Grossglockner Hochalpenstrasse is not just a road—it’s a journey through the heart of the Austrian Alps, with a side of history, nature, and a dash of adrenaline. Don’t forget to breathe. The altitude and the views will both take your breath away.
Pro Tips
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light (and fewer crowds).
Bring binoculars for wildlife spotting.
The weather can shift from balmy to brisk in minutes—layer up!
Don’t rush. The journey is as spectacular as the destination.
Whether you’re a petrolhead, a hiker, or just someone who likes their scenery with a side of adrenaline, the Grossglockner Hochalpenstrasse is a must-drive, must-see, must-experience slice of Austria.
The Carinthians speak a dialect of considerable strength. You might have learned German, or you might even be a native speaker. But to make sure you fit into the jolly bunch of Carinthians and even manage to impress them, study a few useful, typical words used in the Carinthian everyday language.
Grias di – Hello Pfiati – Goodbye Jå! – Yes Na! – No Dånkschen – Thank you Ament/Eppa – Maybe a bisl – A little auf da Aks – On the way deachl – Over there neamp – Nobody Gneat – Hurry Haiftig – Enough a Masn håbn – To be lucky Tua ei losn, wead schon passn – “Let it be, it’ll be fine” Wås weastn? – What would you like to drink? an Schleim håbn – To be mad at someone Einebrotn – To flirt A fescha Kampl – A handsome man Wantsche Tudl (die) – An easy-going woman Liabale (das) – A dear person Oaschale (das) – Endearing term for your beloved Pregler (der) – Schnapps Tamisch – Crazy bussln – kissing klaubn – picking åle Ritt – Again and again Rotzkleangn (der) The gooey yellow stuff in your nose. Maaa (heeee)! – Expression of disappointment Gemma! – Let’s go! Passt scho – That’s okay Net hud’ln – Don’t be hasty Jausn, jausnen – Snack, to snack Pack ma’s! – Let’s go home! Ah, drum! – Oh, I see! Aber geh! – No, that’s not true Wos? – What?
And remember: mastering Carinthian expressions might not get you a free schnapps, but it will definitely earn you a nod of respect—and possibly a confused look from your friends. Viel Spaß beim Üben!
If you are looking for an extraordinary culinary experiment, the restaurant Alte Point, driven by Claudia and Bernhard Trügler, is definitely worth the 20 minutes drive from Ossiach. The restaurant is literarily situated in the middle point of Carinthia, in the picturesque village of Arriach. The beautiful, traditional-looking Gasthaus dominates the city centre as it is located opposite the street from the church. It certainly gives one vivid picture of people streaming from Sunday church to the best of all, Gasthäuser for lunch and maybe a beer with friends in the old times.
The food is traditional Austrian cuisine up-levelled to fine dining. We call it “Austrian food elevated”. The restaurant uses local ingredients, for instance fish from the nearby lake Millstätter See as well as meat from local farmers. The menu is based on monthly themes. The themes comply with seasonal availability, which of course, is only natural in a restaurant with environmental friendly values. Courses and surprise menus are also available for vegetarians. Make sure to make a table reservation!
The exceptionally extensive wine cellar wines come from small and bigger vineyards from all over Austria. We especially recommend trying the Birnen sekt, that is sparkling wine made of pears. The restaurant provides weekly recommendations on aperitives, wines and liquors. Wine tastings are organized by request.
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And if you have an urge to try samples from the wide selection of Schnapps and wine, by all means, take a room from the cosy upstairs accommodation. This way, you will also have a chance to enjoy the delicious breakfast.
As the cherry on top of the cake, try, for instance, the Alte Point recipe for a delicious couscous salad, which has become a frequent delicacy in our everyday home cooking.
