Last night I flew to Austria for a press trip to visit Swarovski.

I have never visited Austria before so was looking forward to the trip.

We flew into Munich and then had a 2-hour drive to Innsbruck where we are staying and although we could see mountains it was very dark so it wasn't until this morning that we got to see the full beauty of the surroundings- and what beauty.

The area we were in was incredibly beautiful- it was very strange to come  out of a dark, modern building and be surrounded by the wonderful sights of mountains and the type of alpine buildings you expect to see. It was all so beautiful I managed to take 221 photos in 2 days!

We had a packed day beginning with a trip to Wattens, where Swarovski are based, and a visit to their offices, museum and then Crystal Worlds- which is almost undescribable. Part art gallery- part musuem- part theme park- part wonderland. This is one of those places which needs to be on a "visit before you die" list. 

On to Restaurant Grander for a stunning 3-course lunch and then back to the offices to learn more about the Swarovski brand. 

Early evening was spent looking around Innsbruck, buying Speck, Sachertorte and Mozart chocolates.

The evening began with drinks at the Restaurant Lichtblick which has an outdoor terrace with panoramic views over Innsbruck - the perfect place to enjoy a Prosecco - with or without Aperol.

Surely every good meal ends with schnapps?- and not the sugary kind we usually get in the UK- I mean the stuff that seems to evaporate as you drink it and is advised as it's so good for the digestion...