Ambras Castle – Watching Over Innsbruck

Ambras Castle Innsbruck

There are many things to do in Innsbruck, but one of the best is to climb the hills that hug the city and explore Ambras Castle. Known locally as Schloss Ambras, it has watched over the city for several hundred years, although a fort took its place before it was built. Indeed, it is thought some of the stone in the existing castle harks back to the original fort.

You don’t need to climb up to the castle to see it. It sits majestically above the city and was once owned by Archduke Ferdinand, whose name is still linked with it today. Indeed if you do visit the castle be sure to take a closer look at the Chamber of Art and Curiosities, which is apparently inspired by him and contains some of the items he collected during his lifetime.

As you can probably tell, this castle isn’t just a classic on the outside. It contains many delights and treasures too, many of which are on display for you to see. For example you can see dozens of paintings in the Upper Castle, including some by Titian among other well known names.

Ambras Castle is priceless in many ways – from the history of its occupants to the history of the items held within its walls today. From its armories to the splendid Spanish Hall, it has the power to make you view it in an entirely different way once you’ve been inside. Seeing it from below in Innsbruck is simply not enough for the average visitor who appreciates the history this castle has to share.

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Visiting the Alpenzoo in Innsbruck Austria

Alpen Zoo in Innsbruck

Do you fancy heading to Innsbruck in Austria? Zimmers in Innsbruck are easy enough to find, and you’ll certainly have lots to do while you’re there – not least visiting the Alpenzoo.

We recommend:

… visiting from June onwards. By this time most of the baby animals will have been born, so you might just see one or two with their proud parents. Breeding is all part of the plan at the Alpenzoo.

I saw:

… an incredible selection of animals, plants and birds used to living in the Alpine area. Think of the zoo as the perfect capsule of Alpine life, flora and fauna represented in dozens of different species. It also provides a totally different experience in winter as it does in the summer. Think deep snow or lush green scenery and you’ll get the idea.

We tasted:

Getting hungry? Head for the Dohlennest food and drink kiosk for a snack, or go for the Weiherburg restaurant and café for something a bit more substantial. Remember, the zoo is situated in the Alpine area, so be prepared to get tired and aching leg muscles as you negotiate the pathways. Stash a drink or two in your bag and the odd snack too, in case you get peckish a distance from the Dohlennest kiosk.

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Visit Austria for your next Holiday

Are you looking for an exciting and beautiful country to visit for your next holiday? If so, you might like to consider the European country of Austria, which has something to appeal to everyone. Here are a few reasons why.

Good transport links

Okay, so transport might not be the key deciding factor in your choice of holiday destination but it’s certainly an important consideration as you need to know you’ll be able to easily get around once you get to the country. The good news is that if you go to Austria, you shouldn’t have any problems. The train service is excellent and a popular way to get around the country – there is also a range of train discount passes available for purchase, which can help save you money.

Driving is also a good option. You’ll need to get a toll sticker for your windscreen if you’re driving on the motorway and ensure you’ve got snow tyres or snow chains in the winter, but the roads are well-maintained and offer good variety.

Good accommodation options
As you might expect from a country where tourism is such a major industry, there is all sorts of accommodation available in Austria. From rustic Austrian Zimmers to glamorous Viennese hotels, you’re sure to find something that’s suitable for every taste and budget no matter which region you choose to visit.

Good climate

Austria also benefits from having a good climate. It’s worth mentioning that it can rain at any time of the year so waterproofs are advised, but the country is on the whole fairly temperate. If you’re after skiing or a nice winter break, the Alps are a good place to go. For hot summer holidays, the eastern part of the country could well be what you’re looking for.

Good selection of attractions

One of the main reasons to consider going to Austria is the fact that there is just so much to do there. From going to see the opera in Vienna to visiting the last protected stretch of rainforest in Europe, it’s a diverse and exciting country. Salzburg is a must-see, as this is home to Mozart’s birthplace and is very close to a valley where you will find ice caves. Another benefit is that Austria has very good links to the rest of Europe, so it’s a great place to go if you’re hoping to go on a wider European tour and take in as many sights as possible. If the local Salzburg Casino is closed....just open your laptop and log in to Ozzy Osbourne Slots for some fun and entertainment including real betting and wining real money while enjoying Ozzy Osbourne heavy metal hits playing in the background!