The best hikes from bus stations around Ohlsdorf

Magnificent sight of this Traunfall, it is always beautiful to look at

A pretty figure that adorns the fountain. Big and small look at each other friendly, eye to eye.

Against the impressive backdrop of Traunstein, Grünberg, Lake Traunsee, and the old town hall, the over four-meter-high giant now stands, engaged in a silent dialogue with its smaller counterpart above the fountain in the town hall square. I saw it myself and can only say it's a sight that truly takes your breath away! The large figure with the xylophone on its back symbolizes the creative, productive side of humanity. It's fascinating to see someone translating their thoughts into music! And then we have its counterpart, the smaller figure with the Lego brick, representing the analytical, structuring side. It's like a conversation between two important aspects of our lives, and it's fun to reflect on. The artwork, created by Finnish ceramic artist Kim Simonsson, belongs to his fantastic Moss People series. These moss-green beings seem to have sprung from a dream and remind us that nature once reclaimed the world. La Communication was created in 2022 and can now be admired permanently in Gmunden as part of the European Capital of Culture 2024. From here, you have a fantastic view across the Traunsee landscape to the K-Hof Museum. If you're ever in the area, be sure to check it out – it's well worth it!

The magnificent town hall dates back to the 16th century and was built in the Italian Renaissance style. Its most famous feature is the ornate carillon with Gmunden ceramic bells, which rings daily and fills the old town with its melodies.

Especially the carillon

The former lower square or lower market, called Rathausplatz, once served as a trading center for salt, grain, lime, and goods of all kinds, and was therefore a center of lively trade and traffic every day.

Gmunden Town Hall, whose origins date back to 1574, is not only an architectural gem but also an important symbol of the city's history. Its expansion in 1676 gave the building additional charm and timeless character. Of particular note is the loggia, which has housed an impressive carillon made of Meissen porcelain since 1959. This work of art enriches the townscape and demonstrates the local connection to the artistic ceramics so typical of Gmunden. The green-flamed decoration of the carillon blends harmoniously with the historic atmosphere of the town hall and captivates both locals and tourists. The town hall is thus not just an administrative building, but a place where history comes alive and traditions are preserved.

Not far from the lake, the Gemundner Keramik Manufaktur is ideal in bad weather