The area is famous for its thermal healing water, accessed by several spas as well as the huge and varied ski area linking several resorts in the region. Skiing came to the area in the difficult years straight after World War 2. The Alpine World Ski Championships were staged here in 1958 when Toni Sailer (Austria) won three gold medals (Downhill, Giant Slalom and in the Combination. The Healing effect of Gasteins Thermal Water is due to its Radon content. Therapies range from classical Thermal Baths to the Gastein Healing Gallery and the Steam Bath. Gastein`s more famous bathing visitors have included presidents, kings, queens, emperors, empresses and prime ministers from dozens of countries around the world. Of particular note Mozart`s mother in 1750, followed by his widow nearly 90 years later in 1839, Johann Strauss in 1850 and Mrs. Winston Churchill in 1912.
Film Stars such including Douglas Fairbank Junior. with his family in 1950 and Thomas Mann a year later. The area was once famous for gold mining, originally perhaps by Celts, more than two thousand years ago and then by the Romans. Gold was said to be only about five metres below the surface.
Apres Ski
Bad Hofgastein: Friendly, yet still a great atmosphere with a variety of bars, cafes, and discos.Bad Gastein: Good choce of lively and cosmopolitan nightspots with an impressive casino for those wishing to have a flutter.
Eating Out
A superb choice of over 35 restaurants in each resort, catering for all tastes and pockets • 3-course dinner from €15-20.
Activities
• Spa centres (See 'Ski and Spa' box) • Ice skating and curling • Tobogganing • Sleigh rides • Shooting • Bowling
Other Amenities
• Stylish shops and boutiques • Banks • Many lovely walks • Excursions to Salzburg.
