All good things must end, but before we leave Austria, we visit the Swarvoski Museum in nearby Watters. The world-famous crystal is different from other crystal - it is man made.
Daniel Swarvoski started his factory in 1895 here in Watters an Industrial suburb of Innsbruck. Using a special firing process, natural and local minerals, coarse sand, and superb cutting and polishing techniques, he produced a sparkling, first-class crystal.
Some of the best known is the cute myriad of animal shapes, gorgeous chandeliers, jewellery; even top class fashion designers use them to adorn courtier gowns. Forty million stones are produced daily along with over 250,000 varying sizes, colors and shapes. I love the jewelry, so you can imagine this place was not on my husband’s "Must see list"; however, being the good sport he is, we found ourselves oohing and aahing at the dramatic entry to this iced wonderland.
The entry is a startling ivy covered hill shaped like a human face; a tinkling waterfall flows from the mouth. Inside there are huge showrooms; one has a large horse made entirely of crystal. Various sound and light themes accompanied by heavenly music plus the kaleidoscope of colours make this a magical place.
We did not linger too long; of course, I could have spent enough to ensure we could never again have a vacation, so I limited myself to a $20 stickpin. {Much to my husband’s relief}
The exhibition is open daily 9am- 6pm. The Innsbruck card allowed us to visit free, so do not recall the admission price. If you go, try to get there before the ever-eager tour groups.
Reluctantly we leave Austria, we do so by the route of the Brenner pass. Ten years ago, we traveled this route seated in the middle row of a large tour bus, definitely not the way to view it.
This time, what a treat and an eye opener. We believe Innsbruck is scenically one of the most beautiful cities in Europe; the Brenner Pass is its dessert. Magnificent scenery overwhelms the senses. Verdant forests, thick greenery broken by an occasional waterfall, hypnotizing snowcapped mountains. The ten-euro toll was well worth it - even if you are staying in Innsbruck, if you have access to a car, take the ride just for the view. {approx, one hour from Innsbruck to the Italian border.}
In Roman times it was known as the Via Claudia Augusta. It is the oldest route through the Alps and has the lowest elevation. {In no way does that detract from its beauty} There are twenty-two tunnels, sixty bridges, a monument to modern engineering. This route ends in Bolzano, Italy. As we enter Italy, we say a silent goodbye to beautiful Austria. We are filled with countless memories and a firm resolve to return.