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The European village is famous among tourists for its Alpine tradition of painted skulls and stunning salt mine. It attracts constant visitors due to its beauty, especially in the age of social media
While snowfall transforms this village into a paradise, it also brings a season of anxiety. (Representative/AP File)
When it comes to travel, people’s eyes often turn towards destinations of their dreams. Some long for snow-capped mountains, while others yearn for the vast expanse of the sea. Indeed, fairy tales often evoke images of enchanting lands that spark a desire to visit. There exists such a village, one that captivates all who lay eyes upon it, a place many dream of visiting, igniting a longing to experience its allure firsthand.
According to a report from The Mirror, the small village of Hallstatt, nestled in the Salzkammergut province of Austria, is so beautiful it appears to be straight out of a fairy tale. This picturesque village, home to 800 people, is one of Austria’s top travel destinations and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Hallstatt is known for its unique Alpine tradition of painting human skulls, which are on display, and its stunning salt mine. Such is its beauty that in the age of social media, Hallstatt is always bustling with visitors.
However, residents of this village harbour a persistent worry. While snowfall transforms their home into a paradise, it also brings a season of anxiety.
The residents of Hallstatt are grappling with the challenges posed by overtourism. The picturesque village, which sees up to 10,000 visitors daily during peak season, struggles to maintain the privacy and tranquillity of its inhabitants.
To mitigate the situation, authorities have implemented measures such as halting tourist buses after 5 pm and temporarily blocking a tunnel. Villagers have even resorted to erecting anti-selfie fences and barricading a popular hill to manage the influx.
The sheer volume of tourists visiting this small village has become a significant concern for residents. Consequently, there is a growing appeal for visitors to consider reducing their numbers and exploring alternative destinations, particularly during the off-season.
