One day you're plunging into an Alpine lake, the next you're exploring a narrow back street of Vienna.

Travel is often a meandering journey through deeply carved valleys along roads and railways cut improbably into the rocky flanks of mountains on around picturesque lakes.

But often the landscape is simply too rugged for road or rail Hiking and mountain biking is the best way to reach isolated alpine meadows.

The scenery unfolds as you climb higher on this serpentine road.

Snowcapped mountains, plunging waterfalls and lakes scattered like gemstones adjust the build up to gross glockner, Austria's highest peak.

Imagine what you could do with unlimited riches on Austria's top architects at hand.

For 640 years, and you'll have the Vienna of the Hapsburgs.

The graceful Hamburg whisks you back to an age of empires, marvel at the Treasury's Imperial Crowns, the equine ballet of the Spanish Hoff, right Schuler on the chandelier lit apartments fit for Empress Elizabeth.

Skiing is more than just a sport.

It's a way of life.

The scope is limitless and the terrain fantastic.

Aziz, you make your way through Europe's best preserved fortress glide through the Golden Hall with its celestial ceiling, capturing the starlit heavens drift off in flying saucer shaped pools at crystalline Aqua Dome or in the fantastical hot springs of 100 Fastest Technicolor.

Roger Bad Blue Man.

Yeah, high season runs April through October.

High season for skiing is mid December to March.

Travel costs in Austria can range from less than €100 a day if you enjoy a dorm bed and cheap museums toe over €250 a day for a luxury suite and superb meals with fine wine.

Public transport is excellent for reaching even remote regions or reserve cars ahead from major cities.

Austria's appeal is all about how it's evocative.

Natural landscapes of soaring mountains, rushing rivers and deep lakes combined so perfectly with the cultural riches off this fascinating country.