The 'fairytale' European village so stunning that locals are turning tourists away

The charming village of Hallstatt in Austria looks like something straight out of a winter fairy tale.

Tucked away in Austria’s stunning Salzkammergut region, Hallstatt is a hidden gem that attracts visitors from all over the world.

With its magical storybook setting, rich history, and breathtaking scenery, it’s no wonder this village is one of Austria’s top destinations.

Hallstatt is filled with colourful houses surrounding an old market square, all set against a backdrop of towering Alpine mountains and a peaceful lake.

Image credit: Julius_Silver, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons // https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Hallstatt_Austria_Bergsee_Lake_Alpine_Summer.jpg

In fact, it’s so beautiful that many believe it was the inspiration for Arendelle, the magical kingdom in Disney’s Frozen.

Despite having just 800 residents, the village has become a favourite for Instagrammers and influencers thanks to its picture-perfect views.

But Hallstatt isn’t just a pretty place—it was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997 and has a history dating back to the Iron Age and beyond.

However, the village faces serious challenges, with up to 10,000 tourists visiting each day during peak season, overwhelming the locals. Hallstatt is especially popular among Chinese visitors, leading to a life-sized replica of the village being built in Guangdong.

Frustrated residents have called for restrictions on visitor numbers and a ban on tour buses after 5pm to help protect their peaceful way of life.

Image credit: Dimitry Anikin, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons // https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Hallstatt_1.jpg

Last summer, around 100 locals staged a protest by blocking the village’s main tunnel for 15 minutes, holding signs with messages like "Emergency brake now!" and "Think of our children."

Earlier this year, a controversial "anti-selfie fence" was temporarily put up to block a famous mountain viewpoint, aiming to reduce the noise from crowds taking endless photos. However, it was later removed.

The best way to experience Hallstatt is by visiting outside peak season. The Hallstatt Dachstein Salzkammergut region is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers, offering plenty to explore all year round.

One of its most unique attractions is the Hallstatt Ossuary, a fascinating yet eerie chapel filled with over 1,200 human skulls, with 600 beautifully decorated as part of an ancient Alpine tradition.

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