When it comes to dreamy destinations, Austria’s Salzburg Lake District provides not only some of Western Europe’s most romantic settings, but a bona fide connection to tales of true love. It was here history documents the story of Emperor Franz Joseph’s passion for his wife, Elisabeth (“Sisi”), fated to die tragically at the hands of an assassin.

This region and its mountain peaks tipped with sugary snow, deep sparkling lakes and collection of colorful towns and villages — combined with 5,000 years of history — has also provided inspiration for artists such as Gustav Klimt, and for enduringly popular operettas such as “Im Weissen Rössl” (White Horse Inn).

Book your own room at the refined, 500-year-old Romantik Hotel im Weissen Rössl, positioned on the banks of Lake Wolfgangsee. Views from each of the individually furnished guestrooms take in the waters and the surrounding mountains. The hotel’s wellness and spa veranda, located lakeside, provides a steam bath, sauna, whirlpool and infrared booth.

Dine on site and enjoy the hotel’s gourmet menu and local specialties. Save room for a coffeehouse jaunt to sample the region’s decadent treats, including the world-famous Sacher torte. You can find it — and a host of other mouthwatering pastries and cakes — at one of this region’s many elegant spots, including Cafe Sacher offshoots throughout the region.

Or, head to Cafe Konditorei Zauner, which dates back to 1832 and has ties to Emperor Franz Joseph’s summer visits to the region. At Cafe-Konditorei Fürst in Salzburg City, try the Mozartkugein, a delectable and memorable dessert concocted from marzipan, pistachio, nougat and dark chocolate.