Alan Irvine will be taking his side to the Austrian Alps in less than a month's time and you can join them.

The Lilywhites will be visiting the sedate outpost of Obertraun as part of their pre-season preperations and once again Preston North End fans are invited to visit the team's training sessions as well as attend any of the practice matches which take place.

Even if you don't get to see North End in action, a trip to region is highly recommended, if only for the stunning views and scenery. The region of Hallstatt-Dachstein-Salzkammergut is rich in history and is a recognised world heritage site, with cultures and traditions stretching back 7,000 years.

Situated on the shores of Lake Hallstatt, Obertraun is a quite place but the surrounding areas hide plenty of hidden treasures. Fans of mountain-biking and hiking will be in their element but there are plenty of tourist attractions including cable-car rides to the top of the Krippenstein mountains, the Dachstein Glacial Caves, the Salt Mine Adventure, canyoning and white-water rafting in Hallstatt and the stunning views from the '5 Fingers (outdoor deck) on top of the Krippenstein.

Click here to view an overhead view of the region or click here to view a map of Obertraun. North End train in the area marked Bundessport - und - Freizeitzentrum.

Further a field and there is the historic city of Salzburg which is an hour's drive away or if you fancy it you can catch the train direct from Obertraun!

For full details on this stunning region please visit the official tourism website at http://www.dachstein-salzkammergut.at/

For those wanting to fly to the region there are daily flights into Salzburg from Manchester, Birmingham, Edinburgh and London Stansted.

Preston North End will be based at the Obertraun Centre of Sport, arriving on Saturday 4th July and departing on Saturday 11th July. The team will be undertaking daily training sessions and will also participate in at least one practice match which will be confirmed on pne.com nearer the date.

Listed below are several options for those wanting to stay in the Obertraun area.

Hotel Haus am See - www.hotel-hausamsee.at - +43 6131 26777
Enjoy unrivalled views of the alpine world from an idyllic viewpoint on the shore of Lake Hallstatt. Welcome to the warm and friendly surroundings of the 'Hotel by the Lake'.

Appartements Seerose - www.seerose-obertraun.com - +43 6131 26754
Our generously equipped apartments are just a minute's walk from the lakeshore. Ideal base for summer and winter holidays. Many activities practically on the doorstep!

Seehotel - www.hallstatt-blick.at - +43 6131 462
Our guest friendly hotel with a large, spacious garden is a family business and is situated in tranquil surroundings on the lake shore. Surrounded by the Dachstein mountain range.

Dachsteinhof - www.dachsteinhof.at - +43 6131 393
The Dachstein mountain range and the Halstatt Lake provide the backdrop for this country inn. Enjoy fresh woodland air. The area is renowned for hiking in the summer months and for numerous sports and leisure opportunities.

Jugendherberge Youth Hostel - www.jutel.at - +43 6131 360-4
Newly refurbished youth hostel at the foot of the Dachstein. Sports facilities, a lovely terrace and pleasant garden.

Camping am See Camp Site - www.camping-am-see.at - +43 6131 265
Mediterranean style in apline surroundings. Stylish, large 'romantic' park with old columns, stone steps and tended lawns. Adjacent to the lake shore. Own views with views towards Hallstatt.