St. Wolfe

Introducing St. Wolfe

St. Wolfgang is about 80 kilometers southeast of Salzburg, the hometown of Mozart. It is nestled in the mountains and beside the water, with buildings hidden among the green hills. Famous attractions in the town include the church built by Saint Wolfgang and the famous White Horse Hotel. More than 100 years ago, the Austrian Queen Sissi often came here to escape the summer heat.

Once named one of the world's ten most famous towns, the town boasts the renowned St. Wolfgang Church, which attracts numerous tourists with its wooden altar, the "Pach Altar," completed by Michael Pach in 1481. It was also the filming location for "The Sound of Music."

Climate and best time to travel

Come here to escape the heat in the summer and ski in the winter.

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

---

Most Popular FAQs for St. Wolfe

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

St. Wolfgang is famous for its historic church, the St. Wolfgang Cathedral, which dates back to the 14th century. It is also a popular pilgrimage site and has become a beloved tourist destination due to its stunning lakeside location and rich cultural heritage.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

St. Wolfgang is located in the Salzkammergut region of Austria, along the shores of Lake Wolfgang. It can be accessed by bus from nearby towns, or by train to the St. Wolfgang Schafberg Railway station. Taxis and boats are also available for local travel.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The St. Wolfgang Cathedral is generally open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are during the spring and summer months (May to September) when the weather is pleasant and outdoor activities are more enjoyable.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The St. Wolfgang Cathedral is free to enter. However, there may be a small fee for the Schafberg Mountain Railway, which costs approximately €35 for a round trip. Tickets for the railway can be purchased on-site or online.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

It is recommended to book tickets for the Schafberg Mountain Railway in advance, especially during peak tourist season, to avoid long wait times. Tickets can be booked a few days before your visit.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

To fully explore St. Wolfgang, including the cathedral, the boat ride on Lake Wolfgang, and a trip up Schafberg Mountain, plan for about 4-6 hours. A full day is ideal if you wish to explore more hiking routes and surrounding areas.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

The St. Wolfgang Cathedral, with its stunning Gothic architecture, is a must-see. The Schafberg Mountain offers panoramic views of the lake and surrounding peaks, and a boat trip across Lake Wolfgang is also highly recommended.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available for both the St. Wolfgang Cathedral and the surrounding region. Tours are typically offered in English and German. Audio guides are also available for some attractions.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best viewpoints are from the top of Schafberg Mountain, offering breathtaking views of Lake Wolfgang and the Salzkammergut region. The lake itself is also a fantastic spot for photography, especially at sunrise and sunset.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

A recommended itinerary includes starting with a visit to the St. Wolfgang Cathedral, followed by a scenic boat ride on Lake Wolfgang. Afterward, take the Schafberg Mountain Railway for stunning views of the area. If time allows, explore the nearby hiking trails.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

While there are no light shows or night tours specifically, the town and lake look magical during the evening, with the cathedral and surrounding areas beautifully lit. Evening boat rides on the lake are also available in summer months.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

St. Wolfgang can get crowded during the summer months (July-August). The least crowded times are in spring (April-May) and fall (September-October), particularly on weekdays.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

There are toilets, restaurants, and cafés near the boat docks and around the village. Shops selling local goods and souvenirs are also available in the town center.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

St. Wolfgang is generally accessible, though some of the hiking areas may be challenging for those with mobility issues. The Schafberg Mountain Railway is wheelchair accessible, and the town itself has paved pathways suitable for strollers and elderly visitors.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is commonly used, but most restaurants and shops in the town accept credit cards and mobile payments such as Apple Pay or Google Pay.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are several cafés and restaurants near the lake, offering local Austrian cuisine and fresh fish dishes. The Hotel Gasthof Weisser Hase and Gasthof zur Post are two popular dining options.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Some restaurants in the area offer vegetarian and vegan options, though halal food may be more limited. It's advisable to check with the restaurants ahead of time for specific dietary preferences.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Hotels near the site include the Hotel Gasthof Weisser Hase, Hotel Peter, and the Jagdhof Hotel, all offering comfortable accommodations with beautiful views of the lake and mountains.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Nearby attractions include the town of Hallstatt, known for its UNESCO-listed heritage, and the Dachstein Ice Caves. Both are within a 1-2 hour drive from St. Wolfgang.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are several souvenir shops selling locally made crafts, such as wooden carvings, handmade jewelry, and Austrian wines.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

From St. Wolfgang, visitors can take trains to nearby towns like Salzburg or Hallstatt. The train station in St. Wolfgang is connected to the larger Austrian rail network, making it easy to continue your journey.