Lungau

Lungau is a district and the name of a historic region in the southern part of the Austrian state of Salzburg. It lies within the Eastern Alps and is known for its high alpine landscape, deep valleys, and traditional mountain culture. The region centers on a series of interconnected valleys and is characterized by a rural, sparsely populated setting that supports both winter tourism and summer outdoor activities.

The administrative center of the district is the town of Tamsweg. The district comprises several municipalities, including Tamsweg itself, Mauterndorf, Sankt Michael im Lungau, and Mariapfarr. The area is traversed by a network of local roads and by rail routes that connect it with the rest of Salzburg state and neighboring regions, providing access for residents and visitors.

Economy and tourism are the mainstays of Lungau. The region attracts visitors for winter sports, hiking, and nature experiences. In winter, the alpine terrain supports skiing and snowshoeing, while in summer the mountains offer trails, mountaineering, and scenic scenery. Agriculture, forestry, and crafts also contribute to the local economy, with a long-standing tradition of mountain farming adapted to the alpine environment.

Culturally, Lungau maintains traditional alpine ways of life, including distinctive architecture and village layouts typical of southern Salzburg. Local communities host regional events and markets that reflect the rural heritage and seasonal cycles of farming and shepherding. The region is commonly presented as a gateway to the southern Salzachtal and the broader Alpine landscape of the area.