In the picturesque village of Pürgg, high above the Ennstal valley and with a population of just 150, time seems to stand still. Austrian poet Peter Rosegger described the idyllic spot as the “cradle of Styria”, and it’s where we discover a restaurant and guesthouse with centuries-old character that is still evident today …

If any a family were to have hotel management in their blood, it would be the Eders from Maria Alm, south of Salzburg. We are greeted in their modern hotels by a relaxed atmosphere and a distinctively chilled vibe, which makes the Eder establishments the perfect holiday accommodation – all the ski, none of the chi-chi …

Michael Kovacek is one of the founders of the Viennese auction house im Kinsky and, as he will tell you himself, has dedicated himself “body and soul” to art. We discuss the thrill of the auctions, the passion for collecting and why record prices are always worthy of making the headlines …