In historic Salzburg at the seat of the Austrian Alps, a wealth of outdoor adventure and Old World charm.
Crisp. Bright. Harmonious. Just a few of the words that come to mind when we think of Himalaya — a clean, athletic scent inspired by perfumer Olivier Creed’s climbs in Nepal. And while that cologne distills the essence of the Himalayas, it also recalls the sensory experience other mountain regions, for example, the snow-capped splendor of the Austrian Alps. Keeping in mind the olfactory DNA of Himalaya — bright lemon, sharp pepper and warming Tonka bean — we set our sights on Salzburg, a centuries-old Austrian city with a vibrant history, rich cuisine, elegant architecture, and soaring views of Europe’s most majestic mountain range. Whether you’re dropping in town for Mozart Week (January 26-February 5) or using the city as a home base in between ski trips, here’s a guide to getting the most from your alpine adventure.
Eat
It’s not every city that has its own trademark confection, so it’s doubly important you seek out some Mozartkugel while you’re in the area. Named after the city’s native son, the chocolate-covered balls of pistachio marzipan and nougat were invented by Paul Furst in the 1890s. When you begin craving something more substantial,Stiftskeller St. Peteris the standard-bearer for traditional Austrian cuisine — and has been since 803AD, making it Europe’s oldest restaurant.
Those with more contemporary tastes should visit Michelin-starred restaurantEsszimmer, where diners can enjoy beautifully plated tasting menus in a glass-floored dining room above the Almkanal stream.
Stay
Salzburg’s location, adjacent to the Alps and straddling the Salzach River, has made it a prime destination for centuries, which means guests can choose from hotels that range from uber-traditional to sleek and modern. On the classic end, there’sSchloss Leopoldskron, an 18th century rococo palace that also boasts 67 rooms on the grounds (filled with antiques and opulent interiors, it was one of the inspirations for the Von Trapp mansion inThe Sound of Music). On the other side of the spectrum,Art Hotel Blaue Gansmay be housed in a 400-year-old building, but the cool, minimal interiors and modern art feel deeply current. Try theRomantik Hotel Gemachlfor the best of both worlds. Comprised of a historic structure and a recently built annex, guests can move from 14th-century interiors to a state-of-the-art spa, solarium and in-door infinity pool.
Play
Salzburg has an incredibly rich cultural history on view in the city proper — a string of palaces, museums, and parks that channel the best of Old Europe — but especially in winter, it pays to explore the surrounding countryside. A trek through the Eisriesenvelt caves — the largest ice caves in the world — feels like a visit to another planet, while a trip to Kitzeinhorn Glacier is fun for skiers and snowboarders as well as the more sedentary (the Ice Camp, an igloo village at the base, offers plenty of diversion). For die-hard athletes, resorts at Obertauern,Sell am Zee, and the Skicirkus at Saalbach-Hinterglemm all offer world-class slopes.
How to Wear It:
In colder climes, spray some Himalaya close to the skin — on your chest, or at the pulse points on the wrist and inner elbows. Layer up with thermals, wicking wools and luxe cashmere and go about your day. You’ll smell citrus top notes of bergamot and grapefruit immediately, while base and heart notes of cedarwood and musk will arise over time as your body heat activates the scent as you make your way down the slopes.
