Saalfelden am Steinernen Meer

Saalfelden am Steinernen Meer is a town in the Pinzgau region of Salzburg province, set at the foot of the limestone Steinernes Meer massif and the Leoganger Steinberge mountains. This alpine backdrop makes it a good base for hiking, climbing and via ferrata routes in summer, as well as mountain biking on the surrounding trails. In winter, the town forms a linked ski area with neighbouring Leogang, part of the larger Skicircus Saalbach Hinterglemm Leogang Fieberbrunn, offering slopes and lifts suited to various levels. The small Ritzensee lake on the edge of town is popular for swimming and walks. Ritzen Castle, now home to a regional museum, showcases local history and traditional crafts. Saalfelden is also known for its international jazz festival, held every summer since the late 1970s and noted for its focus on improvised and contemporary music. The town retains an authentic alpine character, surrounded by pastures, forests and limestone peaks typical of this part of the Salzburg region.