The popular holiday town of Oberndorf is located in Salzburg’s Flachgau region. Located in the North of Salzburg, Oberndorf borders onto the neighbouring Bavaria. As the birthplace of the world’s most famous Christmas Carol, this town on the River Salzach has become known worldwide. But which Carol are we talking about here?
On Christmas Eve in 1818, it was first heard in the St. Nikolai parish church for the first time. Since then, countless visitors flock to Oberndorf, especially at Christmas time, to experience the Christmas miracle up close.
On Christmas Eve in 1818, in the newly errected St. Nicola church in Oberndorf, the local priest of the time, Joseph Mohr, asked the stand-in organist Franz Gruber to write a melody for 2 solo voices, a choir and a guitar accompanyment. Gruber delivered his composition the same night which was then played for the first time in the evening service
Whether on walks through the snow-covered winter landscape, visiting the Silent Night area or drinking a cup of Glühwein at the Christmas market… Winter in Oberndorf is just so beautiful..
In summer, Oberndorf entices thanks to not only the friendly streets, beer gardens and coffee houses but also with the numerous attractions in the immediate vicinity. The lakes of the SalzburgerLand Lake District (Grabensee, Wallersee, Mattsee and Obertrumersee etc.) are just as available as the recreational areas around the city. A long walk, a bike ride along the Tauern cycle path, a hike on the surrounding mountains, or a stroll through the city of Mozart – Oberndorf is the ideal starting point for a varied holiday experience.
Attractions in Oberndorf
- Silent Night Chapel: worth a visit all year round but particularly at atmospheric Christmas time
- Maria Bühel Pilgrimage Church
- Salzach Bridge: The imposing structure connects Austria to Germany with its Art Nouveau iron construction. The bridge is a listed structure.
- Historic two cities tour: experience history between Oberndorf and Laufen
