Salzburg - Austria

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A view across the Salzach river of the castle and cathedral for the north bank



Austria may be famous for Mozart and Winter Sports, but it offers some spectacular runs.

My first stop was Salzburg, the home of The Sound of Music. And don't they know it!

A truly beautiful place. Flanked by Mountains, the Salzach River gently snakes its way through the City.

On one side you have picturesque green slopes, and the other you have the historic Hohensalzburg Castle which stands guard of the magnificent architecture below.

In the city for just two days, my hostel was located just outside the centre on the North side of the river.

Being a World Heritage city, the Old Town's streets are narrow, undulating and predominantly cobbled. Not a great combination!

My advice would be to ensure your run is on the South Bank. This is the heavily pedestrianised area.

I head South towards the river, past Mozart's house (I had to mention him!) and snaking through the gardens of Mirabell Palace.

Approximately 1.1km to this point turn right along north bank 1.7km to Lehener Brucke, cross, 4.2km along the south bank taking in views of the river, castle, cathedral and small traditional Austrian stores.

I then simply banked right back over Karoline Brucke, back along the north bank of the river and back to my hostel.

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A breathtaking view of the city from a southern hill top

Tough surface for running, cold day, hard unmoving cobbolds and narrow streets and sidewalks. In total, 12.4km, taking in the breathtaking sights and scenery. Definitely hill training required before arrival!

If you visit one place in Austria, definitely make it Salzburg.

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Summary:

Start - Yoho International Youth Hostel, Paracelsusstrasse

Journey - 1.1km south west to Mirabell Palace Gardens along Franz-Josef Strasse.

Along north bank to Lehener Brucke, over river, 4.2km to Karoline Brucke, back along north bank along Schwarzstrasse.

Finish - Hotel vier Jahreszeiten, Hubert-Sattler-Gasse