Austria is a pipe-shaped, landlocked country lying in the bosom of Europe. It extends 560km (347mi) from east to west, 280km (173mi) north to south, and is surrounded by Germany, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Slovenia, Italy Liechtenstein and Switzerland. The Alps occupy the southern and western portions of the country, and peak at the Grossglockner‘s 3797-metre (12455-foot) summit. The upland forests of the Bohemian Massif run north to the Czech border, while the Danube Valley and the fertile lowlands of the east provide the bulk of Austria‘s arable land. There are numerous lakes in Carinthia and the Salzkammergut region; Lower Austria, Burgenland and Styria are the most important plonk-growing regions.
Due to its strategic location, the culture of Austria has grown over the years into a magnificent mix of different European heritages. Here you can find outstanding cultural sites as Schonbrunn, Graz and the well preserved old towns in Vienna and Salzburg. Gothic, Baroque, Renaissance and Jugendstil architectural styles coexist in Graz reminding of its rich history and cultural heydays. Dubbed “the Rome of the North” Salzburg blends urban architectural design, historic treasures and a vivid musical tradition. A capital of Austria and a vibrant cultural centre, grandiose Vienna combines modernity and tradition in an extraordinary way. The city is dominated by the imposing St Stephens Gothic Cathedral. The famous Ringstrasse, the numerous palaces, churches and parks as well as the affluent Habsburg’s collections furthermore contribute to the imperial flavour of the city.
