GETREIDEGASSE • KARAJANPLATZ • MEDIEVAL OLD TOWN • OUTDOOR TERRACE • PLAYFUL • RESTFUL • CREATIVE • PASTEL • ROOTED • URBAN • MELLOW • INTELLECTUAL • SMOOTH • MUTED • RELAXED • INSIDERS PLACE • ARTS.

The Art Hotel Blaue Gans is more than just another cool design hotel and if like us, you have a respect for the period build edging on the quaint, but at the same time, need dashes of the contemporary styling to lighten the load – then you will fall for this place, which is self-assured & oozes confidence.

Milky soft eggshell tones, exposed beams, bespoke furnishings and artistic installations chime well with the period, historic elements adding to the provenance of this former Inn. It is indeed that signatory blend of the old & the new that lend an air of space, whilst being firmly rooted in the magical heritage of Salzburg, right bang smack in the midst of old-town.

This is serious Art direction, with the credentials & aesthetics of an East-side gallery. Spaces shaped by the aged forms play intelligently to foster contemporary pieces – the setting is innovative, being neither obtrusive nor overly designed. Add to this the excellent kitchens and the choice of room types- this bolthole has all the tracking’s of a hotel that feels comfortable in itself with a natural “lived-in” feel.

With the prerequisite powdery virginal snow, breathtaking mountainous landscapes and crisp Alpine air, we've carefully curated an insider's guide to independent Alpine hotels, ski chalets, retreats and lodges that exude soul.

Is it feeling like a circus already, and it's only the first weekend of December? Treat yourself to some time out and head off to Salzburg for Winterfest, where the circus is anything but metaphorical.

Whether you go there escorted by a little artist you're trying to help stay that way, or only by your own inner child, The Toy Museum has plenty to offer.

Yeah, falling asleep on top of the computer with a cup of coffee in hand is a classic, and sleeping babies and pets can be pretty cute, but we think you're more creative than that, and just to prove it, we have a new contest for you!