I want to start writing about Semmering with two things. One, amazing and UNESCO worthy train track; two, sledding. Semmering is basically where Alps begins and is located in in the district of Neunkirchen in lower austria. The town is also famous for hosting several skilling World Cups.

Referring back to the earlier post, a train ticket with a Vorteilscard to Semmering cost less than 15 euros from Vienna! The view outside the train to Semmering is also worthy of a trip. Semmering railway starts at Gloggnitz, over the Semmering Bahnhof to Murzzuschlag. It is also the first mountain railway in Europe opened in 1854. Apparently, the designer of the railway built it around the nature rather than through the nature, of which is proved by the beautiful view out the window. Having gone in the winter, I saw snow covered sights, but I am planning on going back on the train again in the spring or summer.

Once you get off at Semmering Bahnhof, you will be surrounded by mountains on all sides. From the Bahnhof, the skiing area is an easy walk away. From there, you can rent a sled for about 6 euros and then off to sledding. Another cool thing about Semmering is night sledding. There are not many eateries in the area, considering it is a small ski resort town. But a walk around the mountains through a couple of the oldest hotels, which also look a lot like the hotel from the Shining) is also worth the time.

So before it gets too warm, try this surprisingly affordable day trip to Semmering and grab a lunch in a typical ski cabin!