Austria's Passion for Tradition and Nature

Yodelling in Vienna?

The local Viennese call it ‘Dudeln’ and its emergence came in the 1820s when choral groups from the Tirol introduced the respectable Viennese to the romance of the Alps. However, while a yodel is always performed vocally, the Viennese ‘Dudler’ is accompanied by instruments and often imbedded in a lyrical Viennese song. Another typical Viennese form of music enjoying a bit of a renaissance is ‘Schrammelmusik’. Attributed to two brothers, it’s recognisable for its characteristic ‘whining’ voice accompanied by a lively instrument ensemble. Some 200 Viennese songs are attributed to the Schrammel brothers.

The traditional ‘Juppe’, the Bregenzerwald women's costume (tightly-pleated, high skirt, bodice, lavish sleeves, apron and decorative belt), is one of the oldest women‘s costumes found in the alpine region. From the mid-16th century, a wide-brimmed hat became part of the look, and in 1781 the famed artist Angelika Kauffman painted herself wearing the distinctive Juppe. Today, the Juppe is still being manufactured in one workshop in Riefensberg; it is always custom-made to fit the wearer, a one-off piece. Guided workshop tours available.

Peace, space and tranquility – this is Burgenland. Experience a plethora of landscapes, flora, and fauna unheard of within such a small area anywhere else in Europe. The UNESCO-recognised Neusiedler See-Seewinkel National Park for instance, is home to varied habitats which include a shallow lake of steppes, lowland moor, reed beds, salt lakes, and small-surfaced sand dunes. A paradise for birdwatchers, the park is a stepping stone for many migratory birds on their flight from northern Europe to Africa. Over 300 documented species have been sighted here, including some not found anywhere else in on the continent.