Hiking holidays in Hallstatt

A selection of hikes in and around Hallstatt:

5fingers on the Krippenstein

When it comes to hiking on the Krippenstein plateau, nothing beats the experience that is the 5fingers observation deck on the mountain peak. Likely the Alps’ most spectacular observation deck, it resembles a hand stretching out above the sheer drop of a 400-metre chasm. The view it commands across the Salzkammergut’s landscape with the Dachstein, Totes Gebirge and Höllengebirge mountains is nothing short of breathtaking. Your exciting hike to the Five Fingers starts off at the Krippenstein top station and is an easy hike of around 20 to 30 minutes that even the kids can manage.

Koppenwinkelsee site of bliss beneath the foot of the Dachstein

The Salzkammergut has around 200 of what we call Glücksplätze, or sites of bliss. These are spots of soothing tranquillity and positive thoughts. Lake Koppelwinkel is one of them. The 2-hectar lake has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997 is ideally suited especially for families and amateur hikers. The area around the lake is a nature reserve and offers hikers the space of mind to unwind and escape the bustle of everyday life. Our tip: Stop by the Koppenrast inn for your well-earned repast after your hike.

Climb up the Salzberg

The history-laden trail up to the Salzwelten show mine begins at the Salzberg funicular’s valley station. The hike follows a series of hairpin bends up to the funicular’s top station (roughly a 1-hour walk), from where it’s another 10 minutes to the salt mine. After visiting Salzwelten, stop by the Rudolfturm restaurant for a break and marvel at the bird’s-eye view of Hallstatt. You can then either backtrack to descend on foot or take the funicular back down to the valley.

Glacier Garden natural spectacle

Hallstatt Glacier Garden in the picturesque Echerntal valley was discovered and opened up to the public in 1926. This relic of the last ice age is famous beyond Austria’s borders. We recommend enjoying the stunning sights as part of a leisurely, though somewhat extended, 3-hour hike. The circular hiking trail starts off at the Echerntal car park and can be followed in any season. The hike is especially worthwhile on rainy days, when all the water running down the mountain fills the moulins. Our tip: If you have that extra helping of wanderlust, add another 45 minutes to your hike through the Echerntal near Hallstatt to take a detour to the Waldbachstrub waterfall.

Climb to Schneidkogel

Schneidkogel awaits at an elevation of 1,551 metres. The climb from valley to peak takes about two to two-and-a-half hours. It gets very steep in some places, but is safe and well maintained and takes you through some really gorgeous landscape. Schneidkogel’s peak lies above the Salzberg. So why not try this: Combine your hike with a visit to Salzwelten and a quick stopover at the Skywalk observation deck.

Hike to Wiesberghaus

A hike up through the alpine terrain to Wiesberghaus at 1,886 metres above sea level will take just short of four hours. It’s a great trail for experienced hikers who know how to prepare and have the right kit. The steep climb through larch forests and mountain pines comes with stunning views across Lake Hallstatt. The hike’s destination, Wiesberghaus, is a lodge and base for alpine hikes and is highly popular among hikers. Wiesberghaus offers rooms with central heating and has beds for 100 guests.

Simony Hut in the high mountains

Besides Wiesberghaus, Simony Hut at 2,206 metres above sea level is another popular lodge for mountain hikers. You can reach it by following one of a number of exciting hikes and mountain tour routes, for example by the well-maintained Dachstein horse trail or by starting off at Gjaidalm lodge. Depending on your chosen route, you’ll be walking for 3 hours, give or take. Simony Hut will be waiting with a well-earned meal.