Kaisertal, Austria: Getting Away From It All

Paris, France
August 10, 2007

Europe is probably one of the most extensively explored regions, featuring some of the most developed countries and transport systems in the world, yet it still manages to surprise with hidden corners and pockets of undeveloped areas.

The BBC recently reported that one of the last isolated villages in the Austrian Tyrol mountain range will finally be connected to "civilization" by a tunnel. Currently Kaisertal's only link with the outside world is a cable that lifts essentials (such as beer and meat) to the village twice-weekly-villagers have to walk for over an hour to get to the nearest amenities, as there's no road access.

The new tunnel-still being dug but expected to open next spring-will be reserved for locals' use only, not for the rock-climbing or hiking tourists that have had to walk here up until now. The villagers are proud of their peaceful, pristine valley, and want to keep it that way-the test will be to see if they can.

And if you're looking for an isolated property in Europe, make sure that you know just how isolated it is-a compulsory hour's walk for your groceries might seem quaint and healthy at first, but can become risky, if not downright life-threatening if you fall sick suddenly.

Try before you buy, is our motto at International Living-better to rent a place for a few months to get a real feel for the area than to buy in haste.

Best regards,

Maria Savage
International Living's European Consultant