The landlocked mountainous Central European nation of Austria is home to around 8.7 million people and shares borders with the Czech Republic, Germany, Hungary, Slovakia, Slovenia, Italy, Switzerland and Liechtenstein.

The country is defined by its rich history, its rugged Alpine terrain, its marvelous capital Vienna, its picturesque mountain villages and its wonderful peaks, valleys, forests, rivers and lakes.

Visitors to Vienna are struck by the stunning Baroque architecture, the imposing imperial palaces, beautiful opera houses and the elegant restaurants and coffee-houses. This is a richly cultural capital, full of artistic and musical masterpieces, where the influences of Mozart, Beethoven, Freud, Schiele and Klimt are still highly evident.

Away from Vienna, Austria has many other fine cities, such as Innsbruck and Salzburg. Additionally, the state of Styria, located in the southeast of Austria is known for its excellent wines, its spas and its beautiful castles.

Roughly an hour’s drive from Graz, the captial of Styria, through the mountainous, forested landscape is the small city of Spielberg, which is surrounded by plush, green countryside.

1- Few people visit this area of the world just to spend their time relaxing indoors. This is a vast, natural adventure-playground where there is something for everyone, whether it is cycling, walking, climbing, golf, horse riding, paragliding, fishing or kayaking.

2- Leisurely exploring the Austrian countryside you will find villages and towns that have existed for over a thousand years, with ancient castles and picturesque chalets dotted around the landscape.

3- When dining out norms and etiquette are similar to much of Western Europe, though meal times are earlier than along the Mediterranean for example. Tip as you wish, with around 10% being standard. There is typically a calm and relaxed atmosphere wherever you go in Murtal, and throughout Austria.

4- Try some hotdogs such as Käsekrainer (spicy cheese sausage) and Bosna (spicy, thin Balkan sausage) or a Schnitzel (tenderized meat) in a local Kaffeehäuser. Here you can have a decent bite to eat and a drink for €10, especially if you take advantage of a set menu at lunchtime (Tagesmenu). Austrians are also big fans of pastries and cakes, with many bars and cafes offer a tempting selection.

5- Beer and wine making are long traditions in Austria, and beer is enjoyed in the Krügerl (half-litre) by many locals, whilst the excellent local wine comes in a Viertel (large glass) or an Achterl (small glass).