View from the Zwölferhorn, just above Sank Gilgen

The Salzkammergut is located in the heart of Austria, in the border region of Upper Austria, Salzburg, and Styria, nestled between the Totem, Dachstein, and Salzkammergut mountains. Besides the mountains, the distinctive feature of this landscape is the 76 lakes scattered throughout the region. Often referred to as Austria's tenth federal state, the Salzkammergut is a region with its own unique identity and character.The largest lakes in the Salzkammergut region lie on the border with the foothills of the Alps: Traunsee, Attersee, Mondsee, and Wolfgangsee enchant visitors with their idyllic landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and charming villages. Besides its scenic beauty, the Salzkammergut is also known for its rich history. As its name suggests, salt has played a crucial role in the region's development. This "white gold" has been extracted from salt mines for over 7,000 years, a tradition that has shaped the economy and society.