Bad Gastein spas
The spa town of Bad Gastein in Gastein Valley has been a major tourist destination since the 19th century. It had the honor to greet visitors like Queen Elizabeth of Austria and Emperor Wilhelm of Germany among other royals. Its hot springs were famous throughout Europe. The baths of Bad Gastein contain radon, which helps against many illnesses, but rheumatic diseases in particular. Moreover, the town has a magnificent waterfall at the very center. Bad Gastein remains among the most eccentric resorts in Gastein Valley. The other two resorts in the valley are Dorfgastein and Bad Hofgastein. The latter is a spa town as well, located further down in the valley. National Park Hohe Tauern
Bad Gastein lies beneath the eastern part of Hohe Tauern. The national park lies at the alpine core of Austria. It has an area of 1800 km˛, making it the second biggest wildlife preserve in Europe and the biggest in the Alps. Many exotic species of flora and fauna, endangered by extinction, can be found here. Another remarkable aspect is the elevation difference – it is a full 2600 m between the lowest and highest point. The park’s natural history was influenced by the last ice age and constant weather changes. It offers high mountain summits, waterfalls, and exquisite panoramas at every glance. Artefacts in Gastein Valley
Archaeological discoveries in the Gastein Valley provide important information about the history of Gastein. A bronze coin dating from the reign of Roman Emperor Trajan (98-117 AD) was found in an old wooden impalement in the area of Elisabeth’s well. This discovery indicates that the Gastein Valley was a strategic location in terms of trade at that time. These and other artefacts testify to the region's fascinating history.