story
The spring water containing radon made Bad Gastein in the Salzburg Pongau world famous. The spa had an early heyday.
tourism
As early as the late 19th century, 6,700 spa guests came. Hotel palaces from the Belle Époque built into the steep slopes give the “Monte Carlo of the Alps” a special ambience.
departure
In 2001 the Viennese Franz Duval bought Straubinger, Badeschloss and Post, in 2005 the Kongresshaus and Haus Austria. He was celebrated but left the buildings to decay. The Hirmer Group is now investing a double-digit million amount at Straubingerplatz.