There's much more to Zell am See-Kaprun than the gorgeous lake and pretty town. Take the cable car up to Gipfelwelt 3000 (and beyond), to the Hohe Tauern National Park, and you're in for a real treat - as Matt finds out. National Park ranger Andrea gives him an insights into the mystic world inside the mountain. A highlight of the tour is the visit to the panorama platform "Top of Salzburg". At the end of another perfect day, Matt is back in the town - enjoying a cool drink in the golden, late-afternoon sun.

Matt Carroll's Hidden Austria

Episode 9: Zell am See-Kaprun

Austria is not all 'chocolate box' huts you know. As Matt Carroll finds out, if you head to Lech-Zürs and the Bregenzerwald in Vorarlberg you'll find a curious blend of traditional Austrian architecture and cutting edge contemporary art. Matt is exploring a stroll into the mountains to check out 'Horizon Field' - the stunning contemporary art project by Antony Gormley. This is hiking with a contemporary art twist...

Episode 8: Lech-Zürs / Bregenzerwald in Vorarlberg

For foodies, Zillertal is a veritable 'Promised Land' - where spring water is made from purified snowmelt, and the hillsides are awash with delicious herbs and coffee-coloured cows. Matt meets Siggi, a local farmer at his alpine hut, where they prepare "Melchermuas". But first they have to get the main ingredient - milk...

Episode 6: Zillertal

In a world where we're constantly bombarded by bleeping mobile phones, urgent emails and never-ending deadlines, it's good to know that there’s a place like Alpbachtal - just a few hours from home. Travel journalist Matt Carroll heads to the beautiful Alpbach valley - a refreshing antidote to modern life stress - where life is relaxed, traditional lifestyles still prevail, and the people are incredibly friendly.

Episode 5: Alpbachtal

If you're looking for a dose of culture - both classical and cutting edge - then the region of Lake Constance in Vorarlberg - or Bodensee in Vorarlberg like the Austrian's call it - is the place to get it. The exciting region is home to a variety of renowned music festivals throughout the summer. Matt hires a bike for a cruise round the city, to find out what it's all about. He checks out some art, sample some music and takes a tour in a Rolls-Royce in Dornbirn, part of the Lake Constance region in Vorarlberg.

Episode 10: Lake Constance in Vorarlberg

If you're the kind of person who shudders at the prospect of 'doing' exercise - and you believe that keeping fit should come naturally - then you will love the Montafon in Vorarlberg. As Matt finds out, being fit here is part of everyday life - just another way to enjoy the amazing landscape. Whatever you're into (Hiking, mountain biking or something else), it's all right on your doorstep when you're in Montafon. Matt meets Monika who takes him hiking. Along the way they climb the "Stairway to Heaven"...

Episode 7: Montafon in Vorarlberg

One of the simplest ways to enjoy the mountains is to just walk. This is something that Matt finds out, as he heads out onto the Eagle Walk with local guide, Georg. Stunning landscape, the sun setting over the peaks surrounding a hut, as Matt and Georg sit back with a cold beer. Just another day on the Eagle Walk...

Episode 4: Eagle Walk in Tirol

Contrary to what you might read in the newspapers, kids do still love to play outdoors. If you need proof of this then come to Saalbach-Hinterglemm - a giant outdoor adventure park where kids of all ages get to let off steam. Matt Carroll takes a trip around the high rope course, a stroll across the 'Golden Gate Bridge of the Alps' - and even tries his hand at wood-carving (it doesn't go well).

Episode 3: Saalbach-Hinterglemm

For food, history and culture, you can't beat the Austrian cities of Graz, Innsbruck and Salzburg - as travel writer Matt Carroll finds out. In Graz he meets 'slow food' pioneer Andi, who takes him shopping; in Salzburg he soaks up some culture at a classical concert; and in Innsbruck a local guide walks him through the ancient streets. Three different cities - each with their own fascinating stories to tell...

Episode 2: Graz, Innsbruck, Salzburg

Lake Neusiedl in Burgenland offers spectacular birdlife and great places where you can escape from everyday's life. Matt is a bit of a bird nerd, so when local guide Harry takes him out to Lake Neusiedl and they spot some birds he has not seen before it instantly makes his day.

Episode 1: Burgenland

Austria's summertime attractions can be found from one end of its map to the other. In cities, towns, and mountain villages, across Austria, summer brings with it a sense of renewal, not only with nature in its fullest bloom, but also in collective spirit. We hope you enjoy this special glimpse into summertime in Austria, and that it will perhaps inspire you to come and share some of your holidays with us. Prepare to be enchanted.

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Matt Carroll's Hidden Austria

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