| 105 It might not be better known around the world than, say, the village in which Heide’s grandfather lives in Switzerland, yet Heiligenblut is probably one of themost beautiful places you can stay in the Alps. First of all, it lies in the unique natural beauty of the Hohe Tauern National Park, dominating over which is the mighty peak of the Grossglockner (literally bell-tower), which – with its 3,798metres – is the tallestmountain in Austria. All lovers of winter sports will enjoy themselves here, because the ski trails are on beautiful white heights at almost 3,000 metres, while in the village you are awaited by a warm fireplace and hot food that’s served in huge quantities. This quaint little place that’s also known for the beautiful Gothic church of Saint Vincent offers impressive views of over forty Alpine peaks, while the ski resort has 55km of well-groomed trails, which are mostly red but rarely too steep, so they are also pleasant for less courageous recreational skiers. Also there is the Hohe Tauern National Park, which extends across the federal provinces of Tyrol, Carinthia and Salzburg and represents the largest single protected area in Central Europe. With alpine peaks, glaciers, but also the amazing Krimml Water falls, it is a true wonder of nature. And it surrounds Heiligenblut, which is another phenomenal reason to visit Austria this winter and enjoy the beautiful trails. Na obroncima planinskog lanca Grosglokner živi mnoštvo mrmota Plenty of marmots are living on the slopes of the Grossglockner mountain range iStock / SeppFriedhuber iStock / Christopher Moswitzer
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