Residents of the Austrian town Hallstatt have participated in a demonstration against the overwhelming influx of tourists. Hallstatt, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to around 700 inhabitants, yet during peak times, it receives up to 10,000 visitors daily.

The residents are advocating for restrictions on the daily tourist count and a prohibition on tour buses after 5:00 PM local time. Although tourism has brought economic benefits, certain locals argue that the volume of visitors has become excessive.

Hallstatt, featuring charming historic homes along the shores of a pristine Alpine lake surrounded by rugged mountains, has grown into a popular tourism destination recently.

In 2006, its prominence was heightened through a South Korean romantic drama, increasing its appeal in Asia, and a replica of the town was constructed in China six years later.

Many visitors arrive in pursuit of capturing the perfect selfie, with the serene lake, the slender pale grey church tower, and the breathtaking mountain landscapes as an enchanting backdrop.

Considered one of Europe's most excessively visited locations, some locals believe that the number of visitors, particularly day trippers transported by large buses, has reached an unsustainable level.

For now, like Venice and other places affected by what's known as over-tourism, it looks as if Hallstatt will have to endure the mixed blessings of its popularity.

In May this year, residents briefly erected a wooden wall on the most popular spot to take selfies, blocking the view of the Alps, in protest against noise pollution and traffic. After a backlash on social media, it was removed.

Back then, the mayor of the town said he wanted to reduce the number of buses that pass through Hallstatt by a third.

Hallstatt received about a million visitors a year before the Covid-19 pandemic.

Thanks for letting us know that, so that incase one wants to travel he will know where to go

Noted