Its our last morning in Vienna and we packed up our bags and headed down to reception after breakfast. Our car arrived at 10.30 to take us to the train station. It took us a little time to figure out where on the platform we needed to stand as there were a couple of trains travelling through Salzburg at similar times. Once we knew where we needed to be the train arrived promptly and we were able to find our seats as well as room for our luggage. The train sped along the Austrian country side hitting speeds of over 150 kms an hour. We arrived in Salzburg a little behind schedule and it didn’t seem as hot as it was in Vienna. Our driver was waiting for us on the platform and it was only a short drive to our hotel – Bristol Salzburg.

The hotel is in the “new” part of town – which was developed in the 18th century – as opposed to the old town which was settled in the 12th century. The hotel was built in 1619 and the foundation was laid by the Archbishop from Paris. It served as a grand city palace for royal visitors and was then converted into the first hotel in Salzburg with electricity in 1892. The rooms were palatial and the kids were excited to be in the “Crystal Room” with crystals all around.

After unpacking we decided to go for a walk through old town and upto Hohensalzburg fortress which towers over the adjoining regions. We took the funicular to save us walking up the side of a hill to the top in 36 degree heat. The fortress was originally constructed in 1077 and then subsequent Archbishops and kings have added more buildings and expanded it over time. We were able to climb to the highest point and get majestic views of the surroundings – even as far away as the Alps. The different buildings in the fortress have been converted into museums focussed on different aspects of life around Salzburg.

I never knew that Salzburg literally translates to “Salt Castle/Fortress” and is because there were massive salt reserves and mines in the area. Moreover as it was located on the river and along 3 key trade routes, it played a significant part in the lucrative salt trade – which brought riches to the area. We also got to go into the torture chambers where prisoners were dropped down a pit and left for days on end with nothing but bread and water. The kids were impressed with the original drop-toilet and the artillery room.

We decided to stay up and have dinner on the terrace. As we were finishing our meal the weather turned and a storm passed through. The wind was so strong that the meals were being flown off the tables and they subsequently closed the restaurant for the night. We strolled back through town and stopped to watch a live band perform to a packed crowd – some of whom decided to go on stage and dance to the music.