Ferlach is in the Dale of Roses--lovely little town with the classic clock tower, and FULL of custom gunshops. You will lose a day upon arrival there due to time zone, so be prepared for that or lose a day of shopping. You CANNOT see all the shops in one day! Famous gunsmiths like Fanzoy, Hauptmann, Hofer, Hambrusch, and many others are as friendly as you could ask, and surprise--one of the requirements of the school of gun making is that they are required to learn English! You will be overwhelmed and over stimulated by all you see there. The Museum of Gun Making which is illustrated in the photo in an above post is well worth your time as well. (One particular example of stock carving is as intricate as the very finest metal engraving--to bad picture taking was verboten) If you can't arrange to stay in Ferlach, nearby Klagenfurt is available, and trains run there. You will not regret going there I guarantee you. If your partner tires of all the gunshops there is also a lovely waterfall to tour.
