Enchanting Hallstatt

 Hans Christian Anderson epitomized the true nature of swans when he wrote 

 his classic tale, “The Ugly Duckling.” Swans symbolize introspection, tranquility, and transformation universally. A few swans grace this island, and the bountiful and pristine water flows from the Danube River into Lake Hallstatt.

Hallstatt had a dark past because thousands of miners lost their lives working in the frigid ice cave to dig out life-giving black salt that was discovered eons ago.   It has been transformed into a UNESCO World Heritage site.  Fewer than 800 people are living in this serene village. Some people believe the swans embody the souls of the lost miners and their families. The Sound of Music was filmed near this secret sanctuary.