Dachstein circular hiking trail - the variant for connoisseurs (4 days)

Begin your multi-day adventure in the charming town of Gröbming, where you ascend along Styria’s highest alpine road to the spectacular Steinerhaus Mountain Inn. Perched at 1,845 meters, this unique mountain retreat offers panoramic vistas and serves as the gateway to the Grimming region’s wonders. After settling in, explore the nearby Friedenskircherl, a peaceful church nestled in the mountains. As evening falls, savor the breathtaking views from the inn’s terrace during the enchanting blue hour. Your night is spent at the welcoming Berghotel Steinerhaus (or similar), where you can unwind and soak in the tranquil alpine atmosphere.

After a hearty breakfast, set out from Gröbming along a scenic dirt road leading to the rustic Brünnerhütte. Traverse enchanting larch and pine forests, following an age-old mule track once used by charcoal burners. The path opens to clearings like Wiesmahd before you enter the mysterious Notgasse Gorge, a narrow ravine adorned with ancient, UNESCO-protected rock carvings. Continue through the forest to Brandalm and along the historic Bettlersteig, arriving at the idyllic alpine village of Viehbergalm. Here, you’ll enjoy authentic alpine hospitality and fresh local specialties. Tonight, experience the charm of mountain life with an overnight stay at Viehbergalm, carrying only your essentials as your main luggage is transferred ahead.

Today’s journey takes you from Viehbergalm on a gentle hike with rolling ascents and descents, culminating at the 1,731-meter-high Hochmühleck. From this vantage point, take in sweeping views of the secluded Kemet Mountains. The trail meanders through pristine forests to the welcoming Steinitzenalm, an alpine hut nestled in nature’s embrace. Descend via Langmoosalm through the picturesque Almgraben valley, arriving in Bad Mitterndorf, a spa town renowned for its healing springs and panoramic views of the Grimming massif. Relax in comfort at a local hotel (or similar), where your luggage awaits and you can indulge in well-deserved relaxation after a day of exploration.

Embark on a captivating hike through the Styrian Salzkammergut, the heart of Austria. From Bad Mitterndorf, follow forest paths past Steinitzenalm and the Stieger snack bar, then venture to the enchanting Strumern karst springs, where powerful waters emerge after rain or snowmelt. Continue through lush woods and open meadows to the tranquil Ödensee, a moorland lake perfect for a refreshing swim or a restful pause at the Kohlröserlhütte inn. The route follows the Traun River, passing the Vogelhütte, before concluding in the historic spa town of Bad Aussee, famed for its salt heritage and scenic river confluence. Your journey ends with a seamless transfer of luggage and a fond farewell to the Austrian Alps.