Enjoying the Culture 223Goisern in the Salzkammergut. Iodised springs, such as Bad
Hall in Upper Austria, are helpful in curing metabolic and
circulation disorders and vision and glandular problems. Salt
springs are said to be good for gynecological and respiratory
problems and can be found in Bad Ischl in Upper Austria
and Salzerbad in Lower Austria. Bicarbonate-bearing waters,
such as those at Bad Gleichenberg in Styria, are ingested to
treat stomach, intestinal and kidney ailments. The waters at
Badgastein are special because of their radon content, which
is believed to help relieve rheumatic pain. Radon cannot be
retained by the body and is eliminated within 2–4 hours.
Many spas also use mud treatments to help those suffering
from inflammation of the joints and certain skin problems.
You can undergo such treatments at Grosspertholz and Bad
Harbach in Lower Austria. As you might have guessed, Bad
is German for baths, and any town with Bad in its name will
have thermal baths. At Bad Vöslau, a special grape cure is
offered during the grape harvest. Schärding, in Upper Austria,
is known for its Kneipp hydrotherapy cures.
Travelling
In order to fully enjoy many of these activities, you’ll need
to travel throughout Austria. The roads are excellent and no
destination is ever more than a day’s drive away. The major
cities offer a wide array of accommodations, from charming
hotels to affordable pensions. If you are looking for a quiet
weekend in a small town or rural community, there are many
options. A good choice is a Bauernhof, or family farm. The
lodgings are comfortable and you are always made to feel
welcome. The homemade meals are another draw. Your
hosts are especially nice if you have children, because many
are working farms and the kids can help out. A weekend at
one of these farms is extremely affordable.
Another possibility for those with children is Kinder Hotels
(Children’s Hotels). They offer babysitting services and even
full-scale play centres where you can leave your children
for the day. Everything is geared toward the children, from
activities to meals. It takes the pressure off you so you can
enjoy the vacation as well.