Hiking tips

Sigmund-Thun gorge lake tour

Through the thundering Sigmund-Thun gorge uphill to the idyllic gorge lake. A round trip is worthwhile!

Address / Arrival: Krafthausstrasse 22, 5710 Kaprun
www.kaprunmuseum.at

Distance from Feriendorf Oberreit: 18 minutes by car (15 km)
Level of difficulty: easy
Admission: see homepage for prices
Dogs: allowed

First we walk along a wooden path through the thundering Sigmund Thun Gorge. We then circle the gorge lake and return to the starting point.

The starting point is the power station main stage. After it was opened up for tourism in 1893, it was named after the former governor of Salzburg, Sigmund Count von Thun. Around 40 years later, it was declared a natural monument. You follow the wooden path steadily uphill through the impressive gorge, where the Kapruner Ache has dug itself up to 32 metres deep into the rock over the course of time. At the end of the gorge, you reach the Bürgersperre dam and the shore of the gorge lake. Now head right along the shore to the Klammseestüberl and on to the south side of the lake, where there is a Kneipp facility. Walking back out of the valley around the gorge lake, you pass a number of information boards which provide information about the local natural features. At the dam wall, you do not return through the gorge, but either on a narrow trail or the wide, tarmac gorge path back to the starting point at the power station.

The loop is 2.8 km long and has a difference in altitude of 145 metres.

(Pictures: ©Wehrl Christina)

Stoissengraben

Address / Arrival: Take the Pinzgauer Bundesstraße B311 from Saalfelden in the direction of Lofer. Approx. 1.2 km after Gasthof Schörhof (Marzon 10, 5760 Saalfelden) take the first exit on the right. After approx. 300 m there is a car park on the left-hand side.
Coordinates: 47.466862, 12.828936
Distance from Feriendorf Oberreit: 16 minutes' drive to the car park (16 km)
Level of difficulty: easy up to the waterfall trail
Entrance: free of charge
Dogs: allowed

This hike leads into the Stoissengraben, a wide gorge that runs deep through the rock and is dominated by the Buchweißbach stream. Families and hikers, who prefer the experience of nature to the metres in altitude, will get their money's worth here. The cool mountain water of the Buchweißbach stream offers the opportunity for refreshment and a few barefoot steps, while the predominantly shady path offers a varied hiking experience even on hot summer days.

At the end of the Stoissengraben, a fairytale waterfall awaits, which can be reached via the waterfall trail. The trail is only recommended for sure-footed hikers.

The distance from the car park to the waterfall is approx. 2.2 km, the difference in altitude approx. 125 m.

(Pictures: ©Wehrl Christina)

Triefen in Hinterthal

Address: Hinterthal, 5761 Maria Alm am Steinernen Meer
Coordinates: 47.411743, 12.979115
Distance from Feriendorf Oberreit: 28 minutes' drive to the car park (25 km)
Level of difficulty: easy
Entrance: free of charge
Dogs: allowed

The valley hike starts directly at the Hinterthal church (Holy Trinity).

On this almost two-hour walk at the end of the valley, you can see the unique Triefenfall, a 100-metre-long horizontal curtain of water droplets, which pours from a height of two to three metres into the bed of the Urslau stream.

In front of the church, hiking trail 415 crosses the Urslau and follows this crystal-clear spring more or less 2.2 kilometres into the valley. The path climbs imperceptibly and then runs along the western side of the valley after the detour to Triefen. Over open sunny meadows and with a beautiful view of the Hohe Tauern, the wide farm track 32 leads past the beautifully situated, unmanaged Enzenalm (1179 m) back out of the valley to the starting point next to the church. With a bit of luck, you can also see the marmot colony south of the Enzenalm.

The entire circular route is 5.7 km long and has a difference in altitude of 200 metres.

(Pictures: ©hinterthal, hiveminer.com, bergfex.at)

Maria Alm forest slide park

Address: (car park) Oberdorf 11, 5761 Maria Alm
Distance from Feriendorf Oberreit: 19 minutes by car (17 km)
Level of difficulty: easy
Admission: Natrunbahn cable car for a fee (see homepage for prices)
www.hochkoenig.at/natrunbahn
Dogs: allowed

The modern 10-seater Natrunbahn gondola lift takes you to the top. (Of course you can also take the hiking trail). After 350 metres in altitude you reach the mountain station at 1163m. Here you can stop off at Tom's Hütte (children's playground available). An approx. 15-minute walk leads along the signposts to the Prinzensee lake. From up here you can enjoy a marvellous view of the Hochkönig and the Steinerne Meer. Return via Tom's Hütte following the signposts to the forest slide park.

The forest slide park is completely free of charge and consists of 5 slides with a length of between 25 and 50 metres. Fun for the whole family. If you change your mind and don't want to slide, you can walk down the footpath (forest path suitable for pushchairs) next to the slides. More than 200 metres of sliding fun await you. (approx. 1.6 km - duration approx. 40 min)

(Pictures: ©hochkoenig.at, bergfex.at)

Vorderkaserklamm

Vorderkaserklamm / Vorderkaser natural swimming area

Address: Obsthurn 42, 5092 St. Martin bei Lofer
www.vorderkaserklamm.at
Coordinates: 47.5379384, 12.7194410
Distance from Feriendorf Oberreit: 25 minutes by car to the bathing area (28 km) or 35 minutes to Gorge entrance (31 km).
Level of difficulty: bathing area easy, gorge medium difficulty
Admission: please see homepage for prices
Dogs: allowed, there is a private swimming lake for dog owners!

The entrance to the Vorderkaser Gorge is about 2.5 kilometres from the main 311 road. The path leads through the beautiful natural swimming area of Vorderkaser. Free parking is available on the main road, near the bathing area and at the entrance to the gorge. The Vorderkaser snack bar is located at the entrance to the gorge.

The Vorderkaser gorge is 400 metres long and 80 metres deep. At its narrowest point, the gorge is only 80 cm wide and opens up to 6 metres at the top.
There are 51 wooden walkways with 35 steps and 373 stairs.
The gorge was declared a natural monument in 1977.
From May to August a variety of native orchids can be seen along the orchid trail (entrance to the gorge). The orchid trail is 1.3 km long and has a difference in altitude of 190 metres.

(Pictures: ©Wehrl Christina)

Seisenberg Gorge

Address: Oberweißbach 16, 5093 Weißbach bei Lofer
www.seisenbergklamm.com
Coordinates: 47.523610, 12.756273
Distance from Feriendorf Oberreit: a 24-minute drive to the car park directly at the gorge (26 km)
Level of difficulty: easy to medium
Admission: see homepage for prices
Dogs: allowed

The Klammstüberl is located directly at the entrance to the Seisenberg gorge. You can start or end your hike here.

The one-way distance is 3.5 km, the difference in altitude is 250 metres

The Seisenbergklamm gorge in Weißbach bei Lofer was formed around 12,000 years ago. The first unsurfaced path was built in 1831 and the gorge was repeatedly destroyed by storms and floods. The Seisenbergklamm was properly developed in 1953/1954. Annual maintenance work is essential due to storms and snow pressure. In 1974, the gorge was declared a natural monument of the province of Salzburg. Today, the "Adventure Trail" leads through the gorge and includes 10 different nature stations.

(Pictures: ©Seisenbergklamm)

Örgenbauernalm

Address/Arrival: take the Pinzgauer Bundesstraße B311 towards Saalfelden, 200m after Gansl Hotel & Residences you will find the entrance on the left-hand side. There you will always find parking spaces up to the barrier.
Coordinates: approx. 47.393068, 12.801834 (entrance)
Distance from Feriendorf Oberreit: 8-minute drive to the car park (6 km)
Level of difficulty: medium
Entrance: free of charge
Dogs: allowed

The Örgenbauernalm is the ideal destination for hikers who prefer tranquillity and unspoilt nature to many metres in altitude. The rustic hut, which impresses with hearty, home-made delicacies and attention to detail, spoils you with great views of the valley and the surrounding mountains. The ascent is simple and easy even for the inexperienced.

The predominantly shady path makes this hike a pleasant tour even on hot summer days. Once you arrive at the Örgenbauernalm, it's worth taking a break to savour some local delicacies. The Salzburg speciality "Bladl" is offered every Saturday against advance booking.

Afterwards, you can either turn round and walk back down to the valley along the same route or extend the hike to the Biberg mountain inn.

The distance from the barrier to the hut is approx. 6 km, the difference in altitude is approx. 600 metres

(Pictures: ©Saalfelden-Leogang)

Biberg Saalfelden

Biberg Saalfelden (Huggenberg, Berli`s Hütte, summer toboggan run)

Address / Arrival: take the main road (B311) towards Saalfelden, exit Biberg on the left (large signs) either to the Sommerrodelbahn car park or to the Berggasthof Huggenberg.
www.sommerrodeln-saalfelden.at (Kehlbach 437/3, 5760 Saalfelden)
www.huggenberg.at (Kehlbach 21, 5760 Saalfelden)
www.berggasthof-biberg.eu (Kehlbach 43, 5760 Saalfelden)
Distance from Feriendorf Oberreit: 11-minute drive to the car park (10 km), 20-minute drive to Berggasthof Huggenberg (13 km)
Level of difficulty: easy to medium
Admission: free of charge except for the summer toboggan run
Dogs: allowed

The hiking trail starts at the car park of the summer toboggan run. You can either hike to Berggasthof Huggenberg or all the way up to Berggasthof Biberg. It is also possible to take the car or the lift to Berggasthof Huggenberg and then hike to Berggasthof Biberg. The Huggenberg inn is located at 1120m above sea level, and it takes around 1.5 hours to climb the 340 metres in altitude.

The Berggasthof Biberg (Berli's Hütte) is located at 1400m above sea level. From the Huggenberg car park, it takes normal hikers around 75 minutes to cover the 280 metres in altitude. The breathtaking view over the surrounding mountains is famous far and wide, from the Steinernes Meer you can see as far as the Hochkönig massif, the Dientner Grasberge and the Hohe Tauern.

From the Berggasthof Biberg there is a 1.8 km long nature theme park (height difference 70m).

(Pictures: ©Biberg)

Saalfelden hermitage

Address: Parking lot: Lichtenbergstrasse 22, 5760 Saalfelden
Coordinates: 47.439446, 12.862176
Distance from Feriendorf Oberreit: a 14-minute drive to the car park (13 km)
Level of difficulty: easy to medium
Admission: free
Dogs: allowed

The starting point for this circular trail is the Bürgerau Saalfelden car park. From there, you walk over a bridge past Lichtenberg Castle through the woods up to the hermitage. From here you continue to Bachwinkel and then stroll along the footpath back to the starting point.

The hike to the hermitage is an impressive family tour on which it is worth taking a short breather at the hermitage. The Saalfelden hermitage at 1,006 metres was built into the rock above Lichtenberg Castle in the 17th century and also has a small chapel. It is the last inhabited hermitage in Europe. Locals and visitors alike value the hermitage as a place of peace and a "resting place for the soul". From the hermitage, you can enjoy the wonderful view of the holiday resort of Saalfelden and the mountains that stretch like giants around the entire valley.

The circular walk takes about 1.5 hours and the difference in altitude is 250 metres.

(Pictures: ©Foto Bauer/Saalfelden-Leogang)

Steinalm

Address/arrival: On the Pinzgau main road B311 to Saalfelden.
From here, continue at the crossroads with the signposts (green signs, at the bottom you can see the Steinalm signpost), branch off into Bürgerau, then take the slightly ascending road to the car park.
Coordinates: approx. 47.393068, 12.801834 (entrance)
Distance from Feriendorf Oberreit: a 22-minute drive to the car park (15 km)
Level of difficulty: easy
Admission: free
Dogs: allowed

The Steinalm in Saalfelden is a popular excursion destination due to its breathtaking views and idyllic location in the middle of the Steinernes Meer. The idyllic alpine hut (built in 1869) is situated at 1,268 m and can only be hiked to as there is no road! There are many delicacies (some to be ordered in advance). It is easily accessible for families and for children there is a playground and lots of animals to watch! An attractively designed nature trail runs along the entire hiking trail to the Steinalm, guiding visitors through the forest, alpine pasture, and limestone high alpine habitats. A total of 20 educational boards describe both the habitats and the animal and plant species found there with many details and pictures.

The path to the Steinalm is 2.6 kilometres long and the difference in altitude is 450 metres

(Pictures: ©Wehrl Christina)

Kollingwald fitness trail (Saalfelden)

Address/arrival: Kollingwald car park (at the Ritzensee intersection towards Breitenbergham).
Distance from Feriendorf Oberreit: a 13-minute drive to the car park (12 km)
Level of difficulty: medium
Admission: free
Dogs: allowed

The fitness trail in the Kollingwald forest in Saalfelden offers a varied fitness experience for exercise enthusiasts and nature lovers.

The fitness trail runs on a circular route through the Kollingwald forest at the Ritzensee lake in Saalfelden. The finely tuned stations train a wide variety of senses and muscle groups and offer trainers one thing above all: fun and variety!

The course has a length of 2.62 km and a difference in altitude of 42 metres.

Duration: approx. 45 min

(Pictures: ©Bergfex.at, @saalfelden.at)

Berggasthof Mitterberg

Address / Directions: either drive to the Thumersbach village square (5700 Zell am See) or directly to the Mitterberghof snack station (Mitterbergweg 155, 5700 Zell am See)
Distance from Feriendorf Oberreit: a 5-minute drive to Thumersbach (3 km) or 14 minutes to Mitterberghof (8 km)
Level of difficulty: medium from Thumersbach, easy from Mitterberg
Admission: free
Dogs: allowed

The starting point for the hike from Thumersbach is the Thumersbach village square. Through the Loibldorf village, then past the Reithgut farm up to the Mitterberghof farm. The trail is 3.2 km long and climbs 437 metres in altitude. Enjoy the marvellous view of Lake Zell.

Alternatively, you can drive to the Mitterberghof snack station (parking spaces are available - free with consumption) and hike to or towards the Schützingalm. (see hiking tip "Schützingalm circular hike"!

Info and opening times: www.gasthof-zellamsee.at

(Pictures: ©Zell am See-Kaprun)

Plettsaukopf reservoir

Address / Directions: It is best to park your car in the APCOA Rathaus underground car park (Hypolithstrasse 2, 5700 Zell am See), then walk approx. 200 m along Hypolithstrasse to Gartenstrasse and turn right to the CityXpress valley station (Franz-Wisgrill-Strasse, 5700 Zell am See).
Distance from Feriendorf Oberreit: a 5-minute drive (3 km)
Level of difficulty: easy
Admission: car park and lift for a fee
Dogs: allowed (muzzle in the gondola is an advantage)

The Schmitten's largest reservoir is located on the Plettsaukopf and is dedicated entirely to the family. There is a water playground, a play ship, a sandpit and plenty of places to sit and relax. The CityXpress station is located at 1411 metres above sea level, and the trip around the lake is approx. 2 km. A real insider tip! A unique view of the Kitzsteinhorn awaits you at the Plettsaukopf.

Info and opening times: www.schmitten.at

(Pictures: ©Wehrl Christina)

4 lakes Schmittenhöhe art hike

Address / Directions: Schmittenstrasse 119, 5700 Zell am See
Distance from Feriendorf Oberreit: a 10-minute drive (5.4 km)
Level of difficulty: easy - medium, 5.75 km downhill
Admission: cable car prices see Schmittenhöhebahnen
Dogs: allowed
Attention: start and finish points are not identical!!
Free bus ride from the cityXpress terminus to the Schmittenhöhebahn starting point.

Hiking art and lakes on Zell's local mountain
Three reservoirs and Lake Zell, each with an interesting story to tell, impressive works of art and physical activity: The 4 Lakes Art Hike on the Schmitten is the perfect combination of nature, culture and sport for your summer holiday. Active or leisurely, mountain pastures or water, hiking boots or bikini? In Zell am See, "or" becomes "and" in an instant.

Go on a hike, see four lakes
Discover four impressive bodies of water on just one hike on Zell's local mountain. The 4 Lakes Art Hike on the Schmittenhöhe offers one beautiful experience after another. The following four sights are just the beginning:

- Hirschkogel reservoir: The "lake of tranquillity" is also the highest lake on the Schmitten.
- Brunnermais reservoir: The "Lake of Art" bears this title with pride and rightly so, as the numerous masterpieces of the "Art on the Mountain" symposia prove.
- Plettsaukopf reservoir: The "lake for families" and also the largest reservoir offers a water playground, a play ship, a sandpit and numerous seating options for relaxing.
- Water reservoir for snowmaking: At the foot of the Schmittenhöhe is Lake Zell, the "Lake of Shipping" and the largest water reservoir for snowmaking.

After the ascent with the Schmittenhöhebahn cable car to almost 2,000 metres above sea level, this circular tour leads downhill to the mountain station of the cityXpress at 1,325 metres. Along the way, there are three reservoirs, impressive and oversized works of art as well as rest and play areas for families. You can enjoy a fantastic view of Lake Zell along the entire tour. Take the cityXpress into the valley and then the Schmittenbus no. 71 back to the starting point.

Info: www.schmitten.at

(Pictures: ©zellamsee))

Birnbachloch

Address / Getting there: from Saalfelden on the main road to Leogang, in the town of Leogang you will find the Ritter bakery (Leogang 82, 5771 Leogang) on the right-hand side. To get to the Ullachtal car park, simply turn right after the bakery and always keep left on Rosental street. Keep right at the Priestegg junction and follow the road for approx. 1.3 km. On the left side is the Ullachtal/Passauer Hütte parking area.
Level of difficulty: medium
Distance from Feriendorf Oberreit: a 24-minute drive (20km)
Admission: free
Dogs: allowed

The hike starts in the Ullachtal valley and leads through the forest, later on a hiking trail across meadows and rocky terrain past the lowest glacier in Europe. There is a beautiful waterfall just before the Birnbachloch. After approx. 1:30 hours and an ascent of 630 metres in altitude, you reach the Birnbachloch, which lies at an altitude of 1291m. The Birnbach springs from inside the cave.

Barbecue enthusiasts watch out!
Shortly after the Ullachtal/Passauer Hütte car park, there is a public barbecue area with grills and seating.
The barbecue area can be used free of charge.
Please leave it clean and take the rubbish with you!

(Pictures: ©Wehrl Christina)

Ferleiten waterfall trail

Address / Arrival: from Zell am See take the B311 to Bruck an der Großglocknerstrasse. Then continue towards Fusch to the Ferleiten Wildlife Park. There is a large parking lot on the right in front of the toll booth.
Level of difficulty: medium
Distance from Feriendorf Oberreit: a 25-minute drive (23km)
Admission: free
Dogs: allowed

From the Ferleiten car park, cross a bridge. The hiking trail towards Walcher Grundalm starts directly at the Tauerngasthof.
Follow the path until you reach a fork in the road. From here, turn left over a small wooden bridge and reach the Walcher Grundalm.
Behind the Grundalm, the path continues and leads to the Walcher Hochalm. At the end of the hike, you reach the waterfall, behind which you can walk through.

The entire hike covers a distance of 4km (640 metres in altitude) and takes around 3.5 to 4 hours.

(Pictures: ©Wehrl Christina

Enzianhütte Thumersbach

Address/getting there: by car to Gasthof Waldheim, Talstrasse 177, 5700 Zell am See
Distance from Feriendorf Oberreit: 11 min by car (6.5 km)
Level of difficulty: easy
Entrance: free
Dogs: allowed

Drive by car to the end of the Thumersbach valley. The hike starts at the car park (approx. 50 m after Gasthof Waldheim on the right-hand side - see picture), from there you hike the 5 km to the Enzianhütte in approx. 1.5 hours. This involves climbing 380 metres in altitude. The hiking trail is very well signposted and the Enzianhütte at 1300m is easy to reach.

The view of Lake Zell and the surrounding mountains (Schmittenhöhe, Hohe Tauern) will inspire you.

Info and opening hours: www.berggasthof-zellamsee.at

(Pictures: ©Enzianhütte)

Tree-top path Hinterglemm

Address / Arrival: Hinterglemm valley head - Hinterlengau car park,
Distance from Feriendorf Oberreit: 28 minutes by car (24 km)
Difficulty level: medium
Entrance: yes - see homepage
Dogs: The walking surface of the Baumzipfelweg consists mainly of grating and is therefore not recommended for dogs! However, they are welcome to stay at the entrance area in the meantime.

The highest tree-top hiking trail in Europe is located at the end of the valley in Saalbach Hinterglemm. In combination with the "Golden Gate Bridge of the Alps", this excursion destination is a globally unique project.

The natural circular trail starts at the car park at the end of the valley and leads 2 km through alpine pastures, meadows and forests. The 1 km long tree-top trail starts at the Lindlingalm with the 200 m long "Golden Gate Bridge of the Alps". The outward and return route (2 km each) can also be travelled on the valley train in summer. In winter, the route through the magnificent winter landscape can be covered either on foot or by horse-drawn sleigh.

The Golden Gate Bridge of the Alps is part of the Baumzipfelweg. The bridge is 200 metres long, up to 42 metres high and spans the head of the valley at the source of the Saalach. The crossing offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the surrounding mountain scenery as well as of the high ropes park, whose courses run along the side and underneath the bridge. The 600-metre-long tree-top path is the panoramic centrepiece of the Baumzipfelweg. A massive larch wood construction - up to 30 metres above the forest floor - with steps, towers, platforms and bridges.

The Glemmtaler Baumzipfelweg offers a great excursion destination for nature lovers, families, school classes, senior citizens, companies, clubs and youth groups.

Information and opening times: www.baumzipfelweg.at

(Pictures: ©saalbach.com)

Circular hike Ritzensee Saalfelden

Address / Arrival: Car park directly at the Ritzensee in Saalfelden
Distance from Feriendorf Oberreit: 13 min (12 km)
Difficulty level: easy
Admission: free
Dogs: allowed

An easy hike with impressive panoramic views of the peaks of the Leoganger Steinberge, the Steinernes Meer in Saalfelden and the Hochkönig massif.

The hike around the Ritzensee offers an easy tour with stunning views. Various vantage points offer an impressive 360-degree panorama and invite you to linger. The changing landscapes on this hike, such as lake, forest or meadows, are an adventure playground for families. Various refreshment stops (Hotel Ritzenhof, Restaurant Ritzensee, Klampfererhof) reward you with tasty regional specialities.

Route description:

This circular hike around Lake Ritzensee starts on the lakeshore in front of the Hotel Ritzenhof (Ritzenseestraße 33, 5760 Saalfelden). Follow the hiking trail first directly along the lake, then a little up the hill and finally back to the lakeshore. You will be accompanied by a fantastic view of the surrounding mountains. The gentle gradients make this hike ideal for a relaxed excursion.

The circular route is 2 km long, has a difference in altitude of 42 metres and can be completed in approx. 40 minutes.

Info: www.saalfelden-leogang.com

(Pictures: ©Christina Wehrl)

Ritzenseerunde Saalfelden — Circular hike Ritzensee Saalfelden

Motor skills trail Saalbach

Address / Arrival: by car to the Schönleitenlift car park
Distance from Feriendorf Oberreit: 13 min., 12 km
Admission: free
Dogs: allowed

The motor skills trail runs along the Saalach promenade between Jausern and Saalbach. Skill, balance and fitness are trained at a total of 24 stations.

The creative stations with promising names such as spider nets, stretching oasis, alpine water ski wall, target fishing or 3D coordination trail ensure that boredom is never an issue. You can now even go kitesurfing in Saalbach - but only on the kitesurf simulator - one of the stations on the motor skills trail.

The motor skills trail stretches over a total of 4 kilometres.

Use of the motor skills trail is free of charge and the trail is accessible from spring until the first onset of winter in late autumn.

(Pictures: ©Saalbach.com)

Käfertal nature adventure trail

Address / Arrival: by car to the Ferleiten car park (Großglockner toll station)
Distance from Feriendorf Oberreit: 30 minutes by car, 23 km
Admission: free
Dogs: allowed

Starting point is the toll station on the Grossglockner High Alpine Road near Ferleiten (1145m) - Ferleiten car parks are toll-free and also free of charge.

From the toll station, the trail leads along an almost flat goods road (suitable for pushchairs) towards the head of the valley to Rotmoos. A narrow road leads through the varied alpine landscape of the Käfertal - small forests, pastures and alpine huts accompany you to the Rotmoos, which you reach after approx. 45 minutes (1428m)

Special features of this valley are explained at various stations with information boards and play stations. Steep rock faces where meltwater flows into the depths adorn the head of the valley.

A visit to the catered Trauneralm is also possible.

(Pictures: ©Wehrl Christina)

Fairytale Forest Hinterglemm

Address / Directions: Glemmtaler Landesstrasse 401, 5754 Hinterglemm
Distance from Feriendorf Oberreit: a 26-minute drive (20 km)
Difficulty level: easy
Admission: free
Dogs: allowed

Who doesn't know the famous fairy tales of "Mother Hulda", "Little Red Riding Hood" ... ?

In the lovingly constructed fairytale forest, everyone can immerse themselves in the well-known fairytales and experience mystical hours. Perhaps one or two of them will even bring back memories of their own childhood.

The fairytale forest delights children and adults alike and transports them into a world of dwarves and fairies with its nostalgic charm. The fairytale forest is part of the KIDS WANDER CHALLENGE and KIDS WINTER CHALLENGE and is therefore worth a visit all year round. The entrance to the fairytale forest is located directly in front of the sports centre in Hinterglemm. Nevertheless, a stretcher is recommended when hiking with small children, as steep ramps line the path. Some of the carved and lovingly designed stations tell the presented legends and fairy tales at the touch of a button. The fairytale forest has never lost its magic over the decades thanks to the many - often voluntary - helping hands and continues to make children laugh and parents smile.

The fairytale forest is illuminated in the evening and can also be visited in winter!

Always open!

Duration: 1.4 km, 50 metres in altitude, 30 minutes

Info: www.saalbach.com

(Pictures: ©saalbach-hinterglemm)

Almenwelt Lofer

Address / Arrival: by car to the centre of Lofer / Lofer 275, 5090 Lofer
Distance from Feriendorf Oberreit: 33 minutes by car, 35 km
Admission: free of charge with the Maishofen Holiday Voucher
Dogs: allowed

The comfortable 8-seater Almbahn I cable car takes you from the village centre 630 metres up to Loderbichl at 1000 metres, directly to the starting point of the "Auf die Alm" adventure hiking trail. Continue with the 6-seater Almbahn II to lofty heights directly to the Almenwelt Lofer at 1350 metres.

You come directly to the starting point of 7 circular hiking trails with marvellous panoramic peaks
The "Auf die Alm" waterfall trail along waterfalls can also be hiked from top to bottom
A great adventure playground at the Almbahn II mountain station
Bikers can use the Almbahn cable car as an ascent aid and find connections to Waidring/Steinplatte, Winklmoosalm and Unken/Heutal
The disabled-friendly cable car and catering facilities also offer a nature experience for people with walking disabilities and wheelchair users
New at the Loderbichl middle station/inn: beautiful gnome circular trail through the forest with a small petting zoo.

Easy circular hiking trails:
1 Soderkaser-Almsee loop // 40 min // 1.7 km
2 Haus Gertraud loop // 45 min // 1.8 km
3 Schönblick loop // 1.25 hrs // 3.3 km

Medium-difficulty circular route with 360-degree panoramic views:
4 Märchenwald loop/Marmorsee // 2.5 hrs // 5 km
5 Kechtalm loop // 2 hours // 3.6 km
with Schwarzeck panoramic view // 2.5 hours // 4.7 km

More difficult circular & summit hikes:
6 Grubhörndl loop // 3 hrs // 6 km
7 Thällernalm loop // 3.5 hours // 7.8 km
with Dietrichshorn // 5 hrs.

Hiking - connection options to Steinplatte/Waidring or to Unken via Steinplatte/Heutal or through Unkenbachtal or Schwarzeck/Unkenberg

Info and opening times: www.skialm-lofer.com

(Pictures: ©Wehrl Christina)

Circular hike Schützingalm

Address / Arrival: by car to the Berggasthof Mitterberg car park (Mitterbergweg 155, 5700 Zell am See)
Distance from the holiday village: 15 minutes by car, 7.5 km
Difficulty level: medium
Entrance fee: Hikers' car park chargeable
Dogs: allowed

A place made for a well-deserved break: in summer, hikers are rewarded with a hearty and delicious snack at the Bichler family's Schützingalm. You can also enjoy the view of a mountain panorama that stretches from the Kaiser Mountains to the Großglockner.

In the middle of the Pinzgau grass mountains, your path leads from the hiking car park at the Mitterberghof across colourful flowering mountain meadows until you can start your well-earned break at the Schützingalm. The Bichler family welcomes you here every summer with a hearty snack consisting of many regional products.

To the Schützingalm: From the Berggasthof Mitterberg car park (subject to charge), pass through a barrier past a barn and up a short gravel path to a signposted junction. Follow the sign "Schützingalm/Schwalbenwand 82" to the left and follow the forest path in a north-easterly direction uphill, crossing a forest path twice, to the first open alpine pastures. Head out onto an almost treeless ridge and continue northwards over this to the signposted turn-off to the Schützingalm. Follow the signpost to the Schützingalm, through a pasture fence and along a small path across a mountain meadow diagonally down to the alpine road, cross it and descend a few more metres to the rustic Schützingalm (1655m).

Return hike: After a cosy stop for refreshments, take a leisurely hike along the alpine road via the Pointschneideralm and Griessalm back to the Mitterberg mountain inn.

Note: If you prefer an easier, shorter hike with fewer metres in altitude, take the forest path from the start up to the Schützingalm - also suitable for pushchairs! Grazing cattle possible along the route, closed to cyclists!

Duration: approx. 5 hours, 12.4 km, 815 metres in altitude

Info and opening times: www.zellamsee-kaprun.com

Rauris primeval forest

Address / Arrival: by car to the end of the Rauris valley, Lenzanger car park, 5661 Rauris
Distance from Feriendorf Oberreit: 52 minutes by car, 50 km
Admission: see homepaqe for prices
Difficulty level: easy
Dogs: allowed

The Rauris primeval forest at the Kolm Saigurn valley head is one of the most popular excursion destinations in the Rauris Valley. In summer, the centuries-old, unspoilt Sturzwald forest welcomes visitors with over 80 dark moorland pools, spruce trees, stone pines, lush green mosses and romantic clearings. In winter, the Rauris primeval forest can be explored with snowshoes.

Hikes through the Rauris primeval forest
Variant 1:
The starting point is at the Lenzanger car park (toll road Kolm Saigurn from the Bodenhaus car park to the Lenzanger car park, subject to charge). From here, the Almenweg trail no. 31 leads to the Durchgangalm. Keep to the right - below the Gainschnigg-Alm you will find the entrance to the Rauris primeval forest (educational trail no. 30). From the Ammererhof via Kolmstraße back to the Lenzanger car park.
Duration: approx. 1.5 - 2 hours
Difficulty: easy, approx. 200 m ascent

Variant 2:
From the Ammererhof to the Gainschnigg-Alm and via nature trail no. 30 back to the Ammererhof car park.
Duration: approx. 1 hour
Difficulty: easy, approx. 200 m ascent

Peter-Wiechenthaler-Hütte (Saalfelden)

Address / Directions: Take the Pinzgauer Bundesstraße B311 from Saalfelden in the direction of Lofer. After the Forstinger company (on the left) turn right into the road "Pabing". Follow the road for approx. 1.5 km until you reach the Bachwinkl car park. The ascent to the Peter Wiechenthaler Hütte begins here.
Distance from Feriendorf Oberreit: 15 minutes' drive (13.5 km)
Difficulty level: medium, sure-footedness required!
Admission: free
Dogs: allowed

The hike to the Peter Wiechenthaler Hut (1752m) is popular with guests and locals alike. The hut, which towers high above Saalfelden at the foot of the Persailhorn, not only offers a variety of possible combinations with other huts and trails depending on the desired level of difficulty, it also welcomes hikers with a fantastic panorama and hearty dishes. Overnight stays are also possible.

Route MIDDLE: This more challenging hike to the Peter-Wiechentaler-Hütte starts at the Bachwinkl car park in Saalfelden. Follow the signs initially through shady forest, later through rocky terrain up to the hut. Return to the valley along the same route. The midday heat should be avoided at all costs!

The hike covers approx. 950 metres in altitude and takes approx. 2.5 hours.

Information and opening times: www.wiechenthaler-huette.at

Weißsee Glacier World

Address / Directions: via the B168 to Uttendorf, from there a 17km long
a 17km long panoramic road into the Stubachtal valley to Enzingerboden.
It is also possible to get there by public transport (free with the Maishofen holiday discount block).
Distance from Feriendorf Oberreit: 45 minutes by car(40 km)
Difficulty level: easy-difficult
Admission: free with the Maishofen holiday discount block!
Dogs: allowed

Mountains, lakes & glaciers... a day of superlatives, in the middle of the 3,000 metre peaks in the Hohe Tauern National Park, an impressive excursion destination for walkers, hikers and mountain professionals. No bike transport!

Hikers will find walking trails in the vicinity of the Grünsee middle station, at the Weißsee lake near the Berghotel Rudolfshütte or on the Medelz viewing plateau at 2,600 metres above sea level. Hikers can expect more than 40 km of marked hiking trails up to almost 3,000 metres above sea level - including interesting glacier trails and Alpine crossings.

A guided hiking programme is also on offer!

Information and opening times: www.gletscherwelt-weissee.at

Sinnlehenalm Leogang

Address / Directions: to Leogang, Schanteilift car park, Leogang 102
Distance from Feriendorf Oberreit: 21 minutes by car (19 km)
Difficulty level: easy
Admission: free
Dogs: allowed

The ascent starts in the centre of Leogang and leads between slightly ascending meadows and - partly shady - forest paths up to the alpine pasture. The partly shady path also allows young or older hikers to make the ascent. Children can romp around to their heart's content in the children's playground or get up close to the alpine animals.

Alternatively, the ascent can be made from the Leogang district of Hirnreit. From here, a wide, well-signposted forest path leads directly to the alpine pasture.

The hike to the Sinnlehenalm at approx. 950 metres is the ideal tour for beginners and families. Hikers are not only rewarded with magnificent panoramic views over the Leogangertal valley, the Leoganger Steinberge mountains and the Birnhorn (2,634 m), but can also enjoy a snack from the alpine farm with freshly baked bread, butter, bacon and cheese. .Learn how cheese and butter are made on a guided tour of the cheese dairy.

Hike from the Alm to the Huggenberg snack station and the Saalfelden summer toboggan run, walking time: approx. 1 hour, easy.

From the centre of Leogang approx. 2 km to the Alm - approx. 30 min walking time, from Hirnreit approx. 45 min walking time. 149 metres in altitude,

Info and opening times: www.sinnlehen.at

Walk of Fame - Maria Alm

Address / Directions: Maria Alm village entrance,
Free parking at the beginning of the village and in the centre of Maria Alm
Distance from Feriendorf Oberreit: 19 minutes by car (17 km)
Difficulty level: easy
Admission: free
Dogs: allowed

On the "Mile of Alpine Stars", 38 all-time greats from national and international skiing are immortalised with handprints and signatures at 8 stations in honour of the ski boards that mean the world. All of these ski stars have trained on Peter Hörl's legendary racing piste at the Hinterreit lifts, getting themselves in shape for their appearances in the Ski World Cup.

The name of this hike alone sounds promising. And it also delivers what it promises. Fans of alpine skiing will be particularly impressed, as similar to the famous Walk of Fame on Hollywood Boulevard, you can walk from pillar to post and not only place your own hand in the footprints of famous ski stars, but also read up on their sporting history.

The first stop on the Walk of Fame is at the entrance to Maria Alm. From here, walk through the subway to the other side of the road and take path no. 27 up the Schlossberg with stations 2, 3 and 4. At the top, turn right and follow the tarmac path no. 27c past stations 5 and 6.

Once you reach stations 5 and 6, path no. 27 branches off at station 7 up to the Hinterreit mountain inn and the 8th and final station.

Follow the path back to Maria Alm and pass the Hinterreit lifts before you come to a tarmac road and turn right onto it. Then continue straight ahead until you reach trail no. 27. You already know the rest of the way back from the ascent.

Duration: 2 hours, length: 4.51 km, 180 vertical metres

Info: www.hochkoenig.at

Rauris waterfall trail

Address / Directions: Lenzanger car park, Kolmstrasse 21, 5661 Bucheben
Paid car park
Distance from Feriendorf Oberreit: 55 minutes by car (50 km)
Difficulty level: easy
Admission: free
Dogs: allowed, grazing cattle may be near the hiking trail

Circular hike past 5 impressive waterfalls in the Kolm Saigurn valley head.

Starting from the Lenzanger car park, the forest path leads towards the head of the valley where the entrance to the waterfall circular trail can be found on the right-hand side shortly before the Naturfreundehaus (30 min walk to the Naturfreundehaus, also possible with Postbus 640). From there, walk along a meadow path to the first waterfall at the foot of the Hoher Sonnblick. Following the trail, you will pass other impressive natural spectacles. You finally reach the Naturfreundehaus via a suspension bridge.

The way back is the same as the way out, alternatively you can take the forest road back to the Lenzanger car park. Refreshments available at the Naturfreundehaus or Ammererhof. It is also worth visiting the Zimmererhütte behind the Naturfreundehaus, where you can learn about gold mining and the Hohe Tauern National Park. The Zimmererhütte is open in the summer months. Free admission.

A combination with the Rauris primeval forest is also possible.

Duration: 1.5 hours, length: 2.77 km, 207 metres in altitude (highest point 1772m)

Info: www.raurisertal.at

Wildlifetrail Saalbach-Hinterglemm

Address / Directions: Talschlussweg 102, 5754 Hinterglemm
Distance from the holiday village: 39 minutes by car (27 km)
Difficulty level: easy, circular trail 1.2 km
Admission: free
Dogs: allowed

On the new Wildlife Trail you can explore together with Lilo and Ossi, which animals are at home in the Glemmtal, how they look and live and learn funny details about the animal inhabitants.

Chamois, foxes, golden eagles, deer and co. are masters at playing hide and seek and only the lucky ones can tell you about an encounter. On this exploratory tour along the nature trail, however, you are guaranteed to come across a devout golden eagle, a playful chamois, a curious marmot, a cunning fox and a magnificent stag. The life-size wooden figures can even be stroked. The absolute highlight of the nature trail: the majestic Alpine ibex - the "King of the Alps" - awaits a visit at the end in full size and in the flesh in the large ibex enclosure. And with a lot of luck, you can spot the animals in their natural habitat through the large binoculars at the Ossmannalm.

You will find the folder with the wildlife quiz at the start of the Wildlife Trail.
Grab it and a pen, solve the puzzle and then collect your medal at the Ossmannalm.
(On closing day at the tourist office in Saalbach)

Open daily, free admission!

Info: www.saalbach.com

Hochkönig swing park

Address / Directions: Hochmaisbahn: Hochmais 6, 5751 Maria Alm, Gabühelbahn: Dorf 66a, 5652 Dienten am Hochkönig,
Distance from Feriendorf Oberreit: Hochmaisbahn - 24 km / 25 minutes by car
Difficulty level: easy
Admission: see homepage: www.hochkoenig.at
Dogs: allowed

Austria's first swing park at over 1600 metres above sea level

The Gabühelbahn in Dienten and the Hochmaisbahn in Hinterthal (operating alternately 6 days a week) take you safely and comfortably to the swing paradise.

Austria's first swing park awaits you on a total area of 600 square metres at Gabühel in Dienten. In addition to two waterfall swings, there are also four other swing attractions. With a combination of nature experience and adventure, the swing park on the Hochkönig is a unique experience amidst the mountain scenery. All swings have a view of the Hochkönig and are freely accessible. The offer is rounded off by play equipment for younger guests and deckchairs that invite you to rest and relax.

As the facility is easily accessible by cable car, the swing park is ideal for a family outing. If your stomach is rumbling after the adventure, you can fortify yourself in the nearby Steinbockalm or in the Gabühelhütte.

Info: www.hochkoenig.at