The Gasthof Zauner is a beautiful Austrian hotel straight out of a postcard. Zepp Zauner, the third-generation owner, is warm and friendly and an accomplished hotelier. There is a wonderful restaurant on the second floor that serves fresh fish from the lake, which Mr. Zauner will personally filet at your table, and an amazing spicy fish soup. The local wines are light, fresh, and somewhat similar to New Zealand Savignon Blancs. Each room is hand-built and designed by the Zauners.
Hallstatt offers fantastic hiking and a great salt-mine tour. I'd like to return one winter to sample the skiing. It is easily accessible by train from Salzburg, including a breathtaking ferry ride across the lake from the train station.