A visit to Salzburg, Austria, feels like a fairytale come true. The city’s landscape features rolling hills covered in lush grass, snow-capped Alpine mountains among cotton-like clouds, and meandering rivers that cut through historic districts. For a New York City resident like myself, it’s a welcome escape from cramped streets and honking taxi cabs. It’s the type of destination that beckons you to take a deep breath and live in the present—and that’s exactly what I did while staying at Hotel Nesslerhof, a five-star, family-owned luxury wellness resort located in the heart of Grossarl Valley.
Also known as the “Natural Happiness Hotel,” the property offers an array of amenities that promise joy and relaxation, from a vast swimming pool with panoramic views to a heavenly spa room that serves as a stress-relieving sanctuary. Other luxuries—like a delectable five-course gourmet menu and easy access to the renowned Kieserlbahn gondola—make the visit truly worthwhile.
Knowing all this ahead of my trip, I packed my Dagne Dover suitcase accordingly, with versatile outfits that could rise to any occasion. For sun-kissed cabana moments, I had gauzy linen sets, stylish bathing suits, and a trusty raffia tote that travels with me during every summer getaway. I also stuffed my bag with more formal pieces, like tailored trousers, lace-trimmed skirts, and heeled sandals—all of which made their respective appearances during late-night dinners and drinks by the bar.
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Ahead, discover every single item I packed for my serene Austria vacation. While I’d highly recommend a tranquil trip to Salzburg, you can easily wear these minimalist looks across other destinations, too. So, copy this packing list for your next warm-weather holiday.
Unwinding at the Spa
(Image credit: Lauren Tappan)
Whenever I get off a flight, I always like to decompress properly. Given that I was running on four hours of sleep when I landed, I decided to book a soothing facial at Nesslerhof’s spa. With comfort in mind, I slipped into a relaxed button-down, a tank top, and roomy linen pants. This simple outfit took me straight from the treatment table to a laid-back lunch on the hotel’s terrace.
Banana Republic
The Oversized Shirt in Breezy-Cotton
Nordstrom
Seamless Layering Camisole
Aritzia
The Effortless Pant™ – Powerlinen™
Cuyana
System Tote 16-Inch
Exploring the Property
(Image credit: Lauren Tappan)
After visiting the spa, I took a tour of the hotel. Casual separates—including a tube top and a floaty maxi skirt—made it easy to walk around the property. My favorite part of the tour was settling into my suite, equipped with a cozy bed loaded with plush duvet covers. I proceeded to take a much-needed nap in my beloved silk pajama set from Eberey.
LESET
Rio Strapless Cropped Stretch-Ponte Top
DÔEN
Sebastiane Tiered Cotton Maxi Skirt
Jenny Bird
Florence Earrings
Dinner With a View
(Image credit: Lauren Tappan)
Right before sunset, the hotel arranged a breathtaking meal by the lake, where I indulged in veal tartare, mushroom consommé, and fried salmon trout fillet. While there wasn’t a formal dress code for this dinner, I wanted to take things up a notch. What can I say? I love an excuse to get all dolled up! I opted for a lace-trimmed satin skirt, a matching top, a pair of thong sandals, and a glossy shoulder bag.
Reformation
Nova Knit Top
Reformation
Carolina Silk Skirt
Stuart Weitzman
Rio Kitten Heel Sandal
Staud
Ollie Zip Leather Shoulder Bag
Off to the Mountains
(Image credit: Lauren Tappan)
The following morning, the concierge team suggested a ride up the Kieserlbahn gondola. I’m generally afraid of heights, but I conquered my fear for the incredible mountain views. Temperatures were well over 80 degrees, so I dressed in a breathable biker jumpsuit and a baseball cap to shield my face from the sun. Then, I completed my outfit with cushioned sneakers and a functional fanny pack.
Beyond Yoga
Spacedye Keep Pace Biker Romper
Polo Ralph Lauren
Twill Sport Cap
Poolside Lounging
(Image credit: Lauren Tappan)
A scorching morning in the mountains calls for a breezy afternoon by the pool. This was by far one of the highlights of my trip. There’s something so magical about a sparkling pool set against the backdrop of towering Alpine peaks. Believe me when I say, the pictures above don’t do it justice!
Since I spent much of my time lounging beneath a cabana, I made sure to wear an airy linen cover-up alongside my two-piece. As for swimwear, I mostly packed neutral-colored bikinis—they’re incredibly versatile and can easily cycle through my minimalist capsule wardrobe.
Now, of course, I can’t forget to mention my raffia tote. It’s spacious enough for my favorite poolside book, SPF essentials, and a change of dry clothes.
COS
Oversized Short-Sleeved Cotton Shirt
COS
Tailored Elasticated Linen Shorts
Tropic of C
Equator Bikini Top
Sezane
Justine Basket Bag
A Farewell Meal
(Image credit: Lauren Tappan)
To make the most of my last night, I dined at Atelier N, the hotel’s gourmet restaurant. The menu featured a savory soup, beef Wellington, buffet-style dessert, and wine selected straight from the hotel’s private cellar.
For the occasion, I wore a chocolate brown satin top and ivory trousers. This color combination always looks elegant, so it worked perfectly for my upscale dinner. I finished things off with sandals and a raffia crossbody bag from Polène, which earned me plenty of compliments.
Favorite Daughter
The Favorite Pants
Sam Edelman
Ellina Ankle Strap Sandal
