Stories from Bad Kleinkirchheim

Author: Verena Schneider

35 years Waldtratte – the mountain is calling! I absolutely had to answer this call. The Waldtratte is an institution here in Bad Kleinkirchheim and was even voted 2nd ‚coolest ski lodge‘ in Austria. One more reason to visit the mountain restaurant half way down the Kaiserburgbahn… And the traditional Mountain Church Fair was at its best, even if the weather wasn’t as good as the restaurant owners Silvia and Walter Bachler had hoped. But the quality of their hospitality was evident by how many regulars and friends came up from the valley to help them celebrate this anniversary anyway.

The bad weather didn’t spoil the fun, thank God, thanks in part to the Carinthian culinary specialties like the traditional „yellow soup“ – Carinthia’s number one Church Fair specialty. The traditional band of Bad Kleinkirchheim and the „Hinterkoflacher“ played up a storm – the audience swinging and singing along.

But what’s so special about it here at 1,370 meters? The good air? Sure, but the comfortable, familiar atmosphere is the best part. Silvia and Walter run their place heart and soul. Franz and Sissi from Vienna (looked for and found) agree. They’ve been coming to the Waldtratte during their trekking tours for 16 years and especially love the large terrace – it’s right next to the play ground. Parents can rest in peace here, without losing sight of their little ones. For those of you who missed the Mountain Church Fair – your next chance is next year on the second Sunday in August.

Image and text courtesy of Verena Schneider for the editorial team of the website www.badkleinkirchheim.at