Via Alpina and Ruperti Trail

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Via Alpina and Ruperti trail The long distance hiking loop through 5 national parks and 3 countries Editor and Publisher: National Secretariat Via Alpina Austria and Germany, Department of Spatial Planning and Nature Conservation of the Austrian Alpine Association (OeAV)

Texts: Triglav National Park Management, Gesäuse National Park Management, Kalkalpen National Park Management, Berchtesgaden National Park Management, Hohe Tauern National Park Management, Via Alpina National Secretariat Austria and Germany, Peter Šilak, Franz Genger, Rudi Felber, Arnold Kreditsch, Susanne Schwab, Erika and Fritz Käfer, Christina Schwann Extracts from the OeAV (Austrian Alpine Association) yearbooks of 1961, 1968, 1976, hiking guide “Österreichischer Weitwanderweg 10 (Rupertiweg)” (Austrian Long-Dis- tance Hiking Trail 10, Ruperti Trail) by Erika and Fritz Käfer, privately published by the long-distance hiking section of the Austrian Alpine Association, 2007.

Translations: German - English: Markus Wieland, Steve Tomlin

Maps: Latitude-Cartagène / Geosys-Mona / Teleatlas / Network of Alpine protected areas, Randonnées Créations (Jean-Philippe Repiquet), Art’Graphi Créations (Sophie Simon) Reproduction with consent from the BEV – Bundesamt für Eich- und Vermessungswesen (Federal Office for Calibration and Measurement) in Vienna, EB 2008/00307, p. 32.

Layout and Graphic Design: Christina Schwann - National Secretariat Via Alpina Austria and Germany, Department of Spatial Planning and Nature Conservation of the Austrian Alpine Association (OeAV)

Printing: Samson Druck GmbH - St. Margarethen

Cover Pictures: f.l.: “View on the Königssee with the Watzmann east wall” – Berchtesgaden National Park Management; “Reißeck balcony trail” – G. Mussnig, Hohe Tauern National Park Management – Carinthia; The “Goldlochquelle” (Golden Lair Fountain) – F. Sieghartsleitner, Kalkalpen National Park Management; “On the top of the Črna prst” – F. Mihelič – Triglav National Park Management; “View of the Hochtor group from the Johnsbachsteg trail” – A. Hollinger – Gesäuse National Park Management

Picture Credits: Angermann, P.: p. 30, p. 31, p. 32-33 Archive of Hohe Tauern National Park – Carinthia: p. 30, p. 31 Archive of Stift Admont: p. 18 Böhme, W.: p. 31 Gstalder, R.: p. 4, p. 5 Hagspiel-Photography-8952: p. 19, p. 24-25 Hollinger, A.: p. 12, p. 18, p. 19 Kleider, M.: p. 5, p. 7, p. 9 Klinar: p. 13 Kovacs, F.J.: p. 18-19 Kren, E.: p. 18, p. 19 Lerch, J.: p. 12, p. 35 Mihelič, F.: p. 6, p. 7, p. 9, p. 12, p. 13, p. 14, p. 15, p. 20. p. 21 Mussnig, G.: p. 30-31 Berchtesgaden National Park Management: p. 13, p. 26-27 Pointl, A.: p. 10, p. 11 Schleching, S.: p. 6-7 Schwann, Ch.: p. 4, p. 4-5, p. 6, p. 7, p. 8, p. 8-9, p. 9, p. 28-29 Sieghartsleitner, F.: p. 12, p. 13, p. 22-23 Šilak, P.: p. 4 Zdešar, F.: p. 8, p. 14, p. 14-15, p. 16-17 Zlodej, W.: p. 5

This publication was published by funds from the VIADVENTURE project – which is co-financed by the European Union (European Funds for Regional Development) and the eight Alpine countries within Community initiative Interreg IIIB-Alpenraum. (www.alpinespace.org)

The masculine form always includes the feminine form in the text. Innsbruck, 2008 ia Alpina and Ruperti Trail V The long distance hiking loop through 5 national parks and 3 countries

5,000 km of trails, 5 routes through eight countries, from 0 m sea level up to over 3,000 m, impressive scenes of nature and old cultures ranging over centuries – along the Via Alpina through the Alps. VSimply extraordinary: the national parks, where the wilderness is able to unfurl as it has been doing for thousands of years, where people can learn many things from nature, and where tranquillity and relaxation are the highest priority. This long-distance hiking trail connects five national parks and three countries along the Purple Trail of Via Alpina and the Austrian long-distance hiking trail no. 10 – the Ruperti Trail. A very special journey through the heart of the Alps. Ruperti Trail National Parks ia Alpina and its Philosophy

Via Alpina started in 2000 as The result is admirable: five routes, main completely suppressed in this teraction of animal and humans, de- an Interreg V IIIB Alpine Space divided into 342 daily stages, over fast-paced age. pendent upon the season, all make project. The concept of an in- 5,000 km of trails. The fact that no Walking, however, allows you to be up this very diverse habitat. ternational, transalpine trail new trail needed to be established a lot more aware of your surround- stems from an initiative by the is amazing. The close net of hiking ings and of small details. Walk- Hiking does not require a lot of Grande Traversée des Alpes – a trails, which are primarily main- ing allows you to not only become technological aids, is environmen- French association for tourism tained and marked by local Alpine aware of the beauty and unique- tally-friendly, peaceful – a kind of development. The idea was to associations and tourism organiza- ness of a larger, inter-connected tourism, which responds to the con- find a route through the Alps tions, as well as numerous mountain area of Alpine nature and culture, ditions of the landscape, and not connecting existing trails and refuges, offer optimal conditions for but it also races awareness that this the other way around. paths and leading you through a hiking holiday that is filled with is a very vulnerable area to exploi- Those who get started on the trail, nearly all mountain ranges: an adventure, enjoyment, impressions tation and maltreatment. Its animal and “let themselves go” for a few expedition taking you through of nature and new acquaintances. and plant habitats are being pushed days, will be able to feel and appre- the diversity of nature and cul- to the edges. Via Alpina would like ciate this “Spirit of Via Alpina”. tures in a unique region. However the Via Alpina philosophy is to bring the valuable treasures of not only hiking – although this type old cultures and traditions to your In eight Alpine countries (Italy, of travelling indeed is the most suit- attention: ancient knowledge about Slovenia, Austria, Germany, Swit- able to convey its message. Human the conditions of the landscape, its zerland, Liechtenstein, France and perception is not adjusted to quick potential dangers, and the close in- Monaco), different private and pub- mobility and many impressions re- lic institutions cooperated on the implementation of this unique project.

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Koča na Prevalu - Slo. View of the Niederjochferner - A. The village, Saorge - F. Church at Dientmannsdorf - A. Madone de Fenestre - F. Wendelstein, with its spectacular view - D. Impressive Carnic range - A. VIA ALPINA AND THE ALPINE Tourism, Soil conservation, Energy trail maintenance, sign-posting and scape that is old yet full of tradition, CONVENTION and Transport as well as Population marking, but also for other initia- and a huge selection of biodiversity and culture, which is still in plan- tives directly on and around Via Al- of interest to many guests. Due to its special objectives and ning. pina. Individual municipalities and So why not connect the two – hik- philosophy, Via Alpina was rec- tourist boards also offer packages, ing and national parks, astonish- ognised as one of the first official The objectives of Via Alpina can be sometimes custom-made for Via Al- ment and learning, switching of and implementation projects of the Al- found in nearly all protocols, but pina. Innkeepers and restaurateurs relaxing? pine convention in February 2005. they are especially pronounced in play a special role too, as they will Even if all national parks pursue the The Alpine convention is an inter- the tourism protocol. happily provide information about same goals and have the same mis- national treaty of Via Alpina as well as further trail sions, the five national parks that the Alpine states stages. are presented here are so unique Extract from: Article 6 “Orientation of Touris- and the European Linking together different initiatives that they are able to offer some- tic Development” (BGBl. Nr. 230/2002): Community. With- in the alpine area is becoming in- thing for everyone: from the sunny in the framework “1. The contractual parties integrate the issues of creasingly interesting for the further slopes of the Triglav National Park to of this treaty, the nature conservation and landscape care in tourism development of Via Alpina’s targets. the thunderous Enns in the Gesäuse objectives for the aid. They agree to promote only projects that have From here, applicable symbioses National Park, via the “Water Pal- protection and a low impact on both landscape and environment as ensue. ace” in the Kalkalpen National Park the development far as possible. to the steep cliffs of the Berchtes- of the Alpine 2. The contractual parties initiate a sustainable pol- FIVE NATIONAL PARKS ALONG gaden National Park, and up again area are formu- icy which encourages the competitive ability of na- A STRING OF PEARLS to the high-alpine glacier world of lated. The treaty ture-oriented tourism in the Alpine region and thus the Hohe Tauern National Park. came into effect makes an important contribution to the socio-eco- This great, long-distance hiking trail They all have one thing in common: in 1995, and con- nomic development of the Alpine region. (...)“ through the national parks of east- the Via Alpina and the Ruperti Trail sists of eight the- ern Via Alpina provides us a concrete connect them like pearls on a neck- matic protocols: example. The national park regions lace – to a national park loop trail, Spatial planning and sustainable The Alpine convention is not the play a substantial role in research, whereby the national park regions development, Mountain economy, only important partner of Via Alpina. conservation, and environmental are an ideal entry or exit to a hike Conservation of nature and Other organizations are involved, education. At the same time, na- spanning several days. the countryside, Moun- such as the Alpine Associations, tional parks represent a largely un- v.org tain forests, which are not only responsible for affected nature, a cultivated land- lpcon ww.a rg w lpina.o ww.via-a w

An idea is born! active partnership with the mu- marked and offer enough possibili- and suitable way, so that visitors will T nicipality of Bohinj, situated in the ties for accommodation in the many also be able to easily comprehend In the spring of 2006, representa- national park region of Triglav, for mountain huts and valley inns. the information. If people under- tives from the national parks of Ber- many years. So the idea of connect- All five national parks have always stand it, they are also prepared to chtesgaden, Kalkalpen, Gesäuse and ing the Purple Trail of Via Alpina via been involved – especially in the actively protect it. Triglav and the national coordinating the Ruperti Trail (a practically direct area of scientific work – in an- ac All five national parks have exten- office for Via Alpina met in Molln, connection from Berchtesgaden, tive exchange. In recent years, in- sive programmes, offer exhibitions Upper Austria. The cornerstone of towards the south, to the Naßfeld) creasing value has been placed on and tours, and invite visitors to play the national park loop trail was laid. with the Red Trail, to close the circle offering visitors the chance to sus- interactive games at the national and include Austria’s largest national tainable access the beauty and wil- park information centres. There are many trails in Slovenia, park, the Hohe Tauern National Park derness of the national park regions. All five regions are easily accessible Austria, and Germany, but none of was conceived. At the same time, the national park by public transport, what is of partic- these take you through four differ- Hence the long-distance hiking regions stand for ancient culture and ular importance when walking long- ent national parks. This is one of loop winding through five na- rural tradition spanning centuries, distances. Whether you select only the special characteristics of the so- tional parks and three countries which have considerably shaped the one national park, hike from one to called Purple Trail of Via Alpina, from was born. The trail consists of a to- landscape. For the sustainable con- the other, or if you decide to tackle the Triglav National Park up over the tal of 60 daily stages, 41 along the servation of our mountain world, it the entire loop trail, it is guaranteed Gesäuse, the Kalkalpen, all the way Purple Trail, 14 along the Ruperti is essential to depict the gathered to be something special. to Berchtesgaden. Trail, and five along the Red Trail knowledge in such a well-prepared In addition, the municipality of Ram- of Via Alpina. All routes are well- sau, located in the national park region of Berchtesgaden, has had an

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Signposts in the Carriage ride in the village, Studor - Slo. Mieminger Mountains- A. Mittergalm at Hochkönig - A. View from Geigelstein - D. Jalovec from Sleme - Slo. Long-worn hiking boots View from Nebelhorn - D. he History of Long-Distance Hiking

Historical Reflection gang”, which nowadays belong to its largest regional organizations, visitors on to the national park re- T the “Südalpenweg 03” (Via Alpina, with an enormous network of long- gions (Berchtesgaden, Gesäuse, Ka- A brief historical view of hiking is Red and Purple Trails) as well as distance and main hiking trails. Of lkalpen, Triglav), which border the seemingly appropriate before further the “Zentralalpenweg 02”. However, the existing European cross-country Purple Trail, together with the Hohe discussing this complex issue. Our other Alpine associations have also trails (depicted as E 1 to E 11), nine Tauern National Park. ancestors were already undertak- created paths and trails in the moun- cut through the Federal Republic By the way: apart from the eastern ing long and difficult marches (due tains, especially the Austrian Tourist of Germany, whereby on the sec- Austrian, Grenzlandweg 07, the Via to lack of other alternatives) in order Club (ÖTK) and the tourism association from Ruhpolding to Pfronten, Alpina touches on all nine long-dis- to go about their daily routine. Many tion of “Die Naturfreunde” (Friends the Purple Trail of the Via Alpina is tance trails in Austria. paths were created by settlers, war- of Nature, TVN). accompanied for long stretches by In Slovenia there is a large number riors, craftsmen, smugglers, traders, the Pre-Alpine long-distance trail 04 of main hiking trails in the Julian and shepherds, and pilgrims, whereby What is a long-distance trail, what (E4, - also known as the „Maximil- Kamniker-Savinjer Alps, Karawank- the latter visited holy sites and sanc- is a cross-country trail? ian Trail“). en, and in the Bachern mountain tuaries (Rome, Santiago, Mariazell), It seems strange that the option of range. Besides the Red and Purple so they also “hiked”. According to the definitions provided creating long-distance hiking trails trails of Via Alpina, the cross-coun- by a “general plan” (Fundamentals in Austria was not considered for try trails E 6 (“Ciglar Trail” – from the The Developers of Planning for the Development of quite a long time, despite many sug- Drau to the Adria), E 7 (“Naprudnik 10 Austrian Long-Distance Trails), a gestions being made. With the crea- Trail” – from Isonzo to the Mur) and The construction of mountain huts as long-distance trail is at least 300 km tion of the “Nordwaldkammweg” the “Slovenian Mountain Transverse well as the creation of alpine paths long and touches on three provinces (Dreisesselberg – Nebelstein – Man- No. 1” (from Koper to Maribor) are advanced rapidly once the Alps start- or states. A cross-country trail is at delstein, following the ridge trail particularly notable. ed being developed, and this is espe- least 500 km long and covers three which had been created in 1908) Finally it should be mentioned that cially down to the German and Aus- European countries. in 1960, and the internationally fa- “long-distance hiking” allows you to trian Alpine Association. As early as mous “Nord-Süd-Weitwanderweg become acquainted with a country 1912, Josef MORIGGL, Secretary of Long-Distance trails in germany, 05” in 1970, however, hikers finally and its people, and the endurance the Alpine Association, began to hike austria and slovenia began looking towards Austria. training is beneficial to your health. from “hut to hut”. He hiked along the The “Rupertiweg 10” or Ruperti Trail “Karawanken Höhenweg” as In Germany, long-distance hiking 10 (also known as E 10), which well as the “Pinzgau- belongs almost exclusively to the connects the Purple and Red trails rer ande er Spazier- domain of the German Mountain and of the Via Alpina, puts the focus of weitw ein.at/ Hiking Associations e.V. and a few of lpenver www.a www.via-alpina.org

The Purple trail ahead. Along the Austrian border, panoramic view of the Klagenfurt ish Riding School in Vienna, grazing Tof Via Alpina takes you will be able to enjoy the won- basin and the Triglav in the south- along the pastures near the “Gab- you through 66 derful, panoramic views of Carin- west. erl”. The horses are primarily bred daily stages from thia and the Gorenjska region. Soon Now comes the crossing of the in Lipica, Slovenia, which is also a Slovenia and across eastern Aus- you are in the third-largest massif Petzen to Bleiburg and further on stage on the Via Alpina. tria through Carinthia, Styria, Upper of Slovenia, the Kamniker-Savin- to Lavamünd. Soon, you will have Via the Steinplan you continue to Austria and Salzburg, and touches jer Alps, the Steiner Alps. A short reached the border to Styria, stayed Knittelfeld, hike over the Tremmel- on five Austrian long-distance hik- excursion to the Storžič (2.132 m) in the lovely hamlet of Soboth, and berg mountain, with its high, wood- ing trails. Via the Steinerne Meer rewards you with a fantastic view, descended towards Eibiswald – the en watch tower, and continue to- you reach Berchtesgaden, where the and is definitely worth the trouble. hiking centre of eastern Austria. wards Seckau which is famous for its route continues on several stages of Via the village of Jezersko you final- In the last few offshoots of the Benedictine Abbey and its secondary the “Maximiliansweg” through Ba- ly reach the Austrian border at the “Schilcher” wine region, you will be school. varia into the Allgäu. Seebergsattel. Via the small village able to relax before making the long Trekking past the picturesque lake The Purple Trail begins in the Triglav of Trögern with its lovely old church, trek along the Koralm – exactly on of Ingering and over the Kettentörl, National Park, at the heart of the you reach the Eisenkapplerhütte af- the border between the provinces of you reach Trieben and subsequently, Julian Alps. ter a steep ascent. Carinthia and Styria. Admont. Admont is the gate to the Due to the special climate conditions, Refreshed and invigorated the fol- In the summer months you will find Gesäuse National Park. Those many endemic species are able to lowing day, you should definitely Lipizzaner horses, the world-re- who have already been there, know prosper here. The route from the Red make the effort to take an excursion nowned white horses of the Span- exactly why Admont was given this Trail of Via Alpina forks at this point, to the Hochobir (2.139 m), which of- name. A mighty gate guards the en- and leads hikers north-east through fers you an impressive, trance to the national the grand Vrata Valley. The next massif – the Karawanken - lies

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Triglav in the clouds. „Die Kramerin“ chapel on the Koralm. The summit cross at Hochobir. The Widdersbergalmen at Hochkönig. The Klinser gorge in the Toten Gebirge . Working the hay at the village of Sorica. View over the Lech at Füssen. park, where the Enns (river) has as the site of the Pühringerhütte to Germany at the Steinernen Meer out along the Elmaubach Valley, you made its bed between Haindlmauer demonstrates, the Tote Gebirge is (Stony Sea), and enter the Ber- reach Linderhof in the Graswang Val- and Himbeerstein. anything but dead. Actually, the op- chtesgaden National Park with its ley, where you can spend a royal night Over the Haller Mauern and through posite is quite true as the landscape beautiful Königssee. in the Castle Hotel before continuing the “Dr. Vogelgesang – Klamm”, the is diverse and is home to a wide va- Take another excursion to Austria, on your journey over the isolated second-longest, accessible rocky riety of mountain flowers. via the Neue Traunsteinerhütte and Ammergebirge (mountain range) in gorge in Austria, you will reach Spital From the Albert-Appel-Haus over the the Reiter Alm to Unken, before con- the tourist centres of Schwangau and am Pyhrn, in the Kalkalpen Region “Karl-Stöger-Steig”, past the Los- tinuing to the Chiemgau and from Füssen with their world-renowned, National Park. An excursion into er mountain and the Sandlingalm, there, over two mountains, the fairy-tale palaces of Neuschwanstein Austria’s densest forests and most you reach the world heritage village Hochfelln and the Hochgern, which and Hohenschwangau. If that is not water-abundant national park will of Bad Goisern, and via the Gois- offers the most spectacular views, enough, you can also visit Germa- guarantee you an unforgettable ex- ererhütte Gosau on the idyllic Lake to Marquartstein. Over the Kampen- ny’s highest castle ruins, Falkenstein perience. If you are lucky you might Gosau. Over the Gosaukamm, face- wand, with a small stop at the Prien- Castle, before you reach Pfronten. see the white-backed woodpecker or to-face with the Großen Bischofs- erhütte, you reach Sachrang, and from there you cross the Tannheim the Apollo butterfly. mütze and the Dachstein massif, the via the Spitzsteinhaus, Austria. After Mountains into Austria’s Tannheim From Spital am Pyhrn, you will enter Via Alpina follows the trail to Lungötz a visit to the location of the Passion Valley. Soon, however, you ascend the Tote Gebirge (Dead mountains), and the southern edge of the Ten- Festival in Erl, you continue over the the Allgäuer Alps and follow the “Ju- a massive limestone mountain range. nengebirge (mountain range) to Zollhaus-bridge to Oberaudorf, past biläumssteig” to the Prinz-Luitpold- Over the Wurzeralm and the Zeller- Werfenweng and Werfen, where the the Brünnstein, the big Traithen and Haus, where you come across the hütte you reach the small villages of Hohenwerfen Castle looks over the the Rotwand to Lake Spitzing, and Red Trail of Via Alpina. For a short Vorderstoder and Hinterstoder, and Salzach. over the Risserkogel to Kreuth. Af- while you hike along this trail before than the Prielschutzhaus. Through Now at the foot of the impressive ter the last stage in the Mangfallge- you turn to the north and hike past the Klinser canyon the trail continues Hochkönig massif, accompanied birge (mountain range), you reach the Edmund-Probst-Haus, down to over the core part of the Tote Ge- by numerous small open mountain Lenggries. From there you continue Oberstdorf. At this point the Purple birge. Bring a lot of water with you huts, you are invited to take a break along the foothills of the Bavarian Trail, the third trail in the alliance because the rainwater seeps very and try the area’s typical products. Alps, over the Benediktenwand and along with the Yellow and Red Trails, quickly into the gaps, cirques, and Continue to Hinterthal and Maria the Herzogstand to Eschenlohe, and reaches the important crossroad in dolines of this sparse, mountain- Alm. After a steep ascent to the Rie- over the Wank in the Olympic city Allgäu. ous landscape. However, mannhaus which offers a wonder- of Garmisch-Partenkirchen. North a.org ful view, you will cross the border of Garmisch, past Lake Pfleger and -alpin w.via ww

Triglav in the clouds. „Die Kramerin“ chapel on the Koralm. The summit cross at Hochobir. The Widdersbergalmen at Hochkönig. The Klinser gorge in the Toten Gebirge . Working the hay at the village of Sorica. View over the Lech at Füssen. he Ruperti Trail – Long-Distance Hiking Trail and connecting route T The Ruperti Trail ternative trail From the Hausruck via the termiething). Then, the trail con- (110A), par- Kobernausser Forest to Salzach tinues towards Falchgau, to the The Austrian long-distance hik- tially utilizing Salzach and via Wildshut – where ing trail no. 10 takes you, in 25 the Donau- From the Feitzinger Höhe, you will you will soon reach the Salzburg daily stages, some 560 km, from Höhen loop first arrive at the Steiglbergwarte (a – Upper Austrian border – to Obern- the Bärenstein in Upper Austria to trail through look-out point) in the Kobernauss- dorf near Salzburg and Nußdorf am Carinthia’s Naßfeld. Neustift im er Forest, and come along via the Haunsberg. The next target is the From Berchtesgaden towards the Mühlkreis and Rannamühl to Nied- Frauschereck, to Maria Schmolln Haunsberg itself, and along the hik- south, the trail is the connecting errana in the Donautal (Danube Val- and Mattighofen. ing trail you pass Lake Ragginger, route between the Purple Trail and ley). It continues through Hörzinger The trail continues along through Maria Plain, the Gaisberg and the the Naßfeld on the Red Trail of Via Forest towards Andorf. From here, Eggelsberg to Ibm, at the edge of Ib- urban area of Salzburg. At the latest Alpina. the trail continued to Zell an der mer Moor, to Dorfibm and Holzöster, in Maria Plain, you will have decided Pram and Riedau, also taking you on the banks of the lake of the same whether to take the “Gaisbergroute” From the Böhmerwald to the danube through the idyllic Pram Forest to name. Before you reach Ostermieth- and Glasenbach or head for visit the and to the Hausruck Haag am Hausruck. Via the Luisen- ing, you pass through the villages festival city of Salzburg and then go höhe and the Haminger Höhe, the of Ortholling and Gumpling. (The towards the Pfleger Bridge. From the Bärenstein in Mühlviertel, trail takes you through a total of five alternative section “Inn-Salzach- the Ruperti Trail follows the Falken- stages to the Feitzinger Höhe at the Uferweg” joins the main trail in Os- steiner Path via Aigen and Schlägl to heart of the Hausruck. Peilstein, and further over the Ameis- berg mountain towards Oberkappel. At this point, you can hike an al-

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At the Gusenalm with the Eckwand. The thunderous Kitzlochravine. The Arthur-von-Schmidt house. In Dösen Valley – View of Säuleck. Gorgeous flowers at the side of the path. Hiking group at Steinernen Meer. Resting at the Seebachalm. he Ruperti Trail – Long-Distance Hiking Trail and connecting route

Through the Salzburg Kalkalpen to to the Hundstein and down again into see), you reach Hermagor and finally Egger until you reach the Dellacher the Pinzgau as well as through the the Salzachtal (Salzach Valley) to Naßfeld, a small village at the foot of Alm, Görtschacher Alm, and finally, Rauriser and Gastein valley to the Taxenbach. From here the trail leads the Carnic Alps, which is the end of the Feistritzer Alm. Over the moun- Hohen Tauern you through the wildly romantic Kit- the Ruperti Trail as well as a stage tain pastures, Maria Schnee, and zlochklamm into the beautiful Rauris location of Via Alpina Red Route. (A over the Achomitzer Alm, you will This section runs from Salzburg, or Valley and over the Seebachscharte detailed description can be found on page 33). find a magnificent, panoramic view Glasenbach, to reach Glanegg via to Bad Hofgastein, a renowned health of the western Julian Alps and the the Pflerger bridge and over the Re- resort. Further on to Lake Bockhart, Dobratsch. Afterwards the itsteig the Zeppezauer-Haus below then up to Mallnitz Tauern (Hagener path runs through a ma- the Salzburg Hochthron. Over this, Hütte, 2.448 m) on the main Alpine Along the Red Trail of Via Al- jestic forested area, down you will hike the Mittagscharte as ridge, and finally down to Mallnitz, pina to the starting point to Thörl-Maglern and over well as the Berchtesgaden Hoch- the national park community of Hohe the Wurzenpaß to Slovenia thron, and finally, the Stöhrhaus. Tauern. From Mallnitz, the trail goes and the Dom v Tamarju (hut). Hike Berchtesgaden and Königssee are up to the Arthur-von-Schmidt Haus You can reach the Triglav National up the Tamar Tal (Tamar Valley), and reached via Maria Gern. at Lake Dösner (Dösner See). Park again from Naßfeld via the Wur- you reach the Tičarjev dom na Vršiču From here the Ruperti Trail is iden- zenpaß in five days. (hut), and finally, the village, Trenta, tical with the Via Alpina for a short From the Hohen Tauern to the You follow the trail of Via Alpina’s where the information centre of the while: you cross the Königssee by Reisseckgroup, into drautal (drau Red Route (longest Via Alpina Route Triglav National Park is situated. boat, and over the ascent through valley) and over the Gailtaler to the from Trieste to Monaco, 161 daily the Saugasse to the Kärlingerhaus Carnic Alps stages) in the reverse direction: from at Lake Funten (Funtensee). Subse- Naßfeld, you scale the Garnitztörl be- Further information on Ruperti Trail and all other long-distance hiking quently you cross the extended pla- Via the demanding Reißeck trail, you tween Gartnerkofel and the Garnitz- trails in Austria: teau of the Steinernen Meer (Stony will continue across the Seeschartl berg, from where you can enjoy a OeAV-Sektion Weitwanderer Sea) to the Riemannhaus and finally, until you reach the Pfaffenberger spectacular view of the Hohe Tauern Thaliastrasse 159/3/16 down towards Maria Alm. Lakes and the Mooshütte, as well as in good weather. The trail continues A-1160 Wien While the Via Alpina extends east- the Reißeckhütte. over the Garnitzenalm and the north- Tel.: +43 (0)1 493 84 08 wards from Maria Alm to the Via the Roßalmscharte you finally ern slopes of the Kronalpe, briefly [email protected] www.alpenverein.at/weitwanderer Hochkönig, the Ruperti reach St. Paul and the district capital through Italian territory, to the Eg- Trail leads Spittal an der Drau. From the beauti- ger Alm. Hike past the lovely Lake er ander ful yet nippy Lake Weißen (Weißen- t/weitw nverein.a www.alpe

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National parks are responsible dance of different plant and animal parks offer the ideal requirements ature conservation for protectingN areas of outstand- N types can be found, in particular on for scientific research in new fields. ing natural beauty, areas which are extensively farmed mountain mead- Current issues, such as the effects made up of unique animal and plant From an ecological point of view, ows. of climate change, can sometimes worlds, rare and endangered spe- national parks – there are a few be observed differently in natural cies, as well as all the diverse won- thousands, worldwide – are an im- areas when compared to landscapes ders of nature. This conservation portant area of retreat for the plant Research that are heavily utilized economi- status is meant to prevent technical and animal kingdoms. They are eco- cally. National parks can supply im- expansion and economic exploita- systems which are able to develop National parks are outdoor labora- portant clues to understanding the tion, as well as to secure a high de- freely and which have as little hu- tories. National parks are of con- circumstances of this phenomena, gree of natural and dynamic devel- man interference as possible. In the siderable importance in the field and thus have an effect far beyond opment. Humans are not locked out core areas of national parks, wilder- of scientific research: where else their borders. but, instead, invited to participate ness is given space again, and hu- can you observe natural processes as quiet, careful observers of this mans learn to let nature simply be without any human interference? development. nature. In other areas, where hu- Where else is nature given prior- Education mans have carefully and effectively ity, and where else is such eco- National Parks are based on four pil- lived and worked with nature for nomic utilization, especially in the Another important task of nation- lars: nature conservation, research, centuries, this tradition should be areas of hunting and forestry, relin- al parks is to provide knowledge education and recreation. continued: such as on the mountain quished? For these reasons, national about the interconnection found in pastures. An extremely large abun- nature as well as to educate peo-

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The Škrlatica group - Triglav NP. Wiegenwald - Hohe Tauern NP. Enns with the Hochtorgroup - Gesäuse NP. Hintergebirge - Kalkalpen NP. At the summit of Črna prst- Triglav NP. At Reißeck - Hohe Tauern NP. The Königssee - Berchtesgaden NP. ple on these issues. Perceptions in around in the national parks, using frastructure) have already been themselves do not help if they are all of their senses. They should re- implemented around the national limited only to the experts. It is im- lax and recuperate. To avoid conflict park regions. Due to their variety What does IUCN actually portant to build up different areas of with conservation goals, however, of offers, national parks provide big mean? knowledge, and to target different well thought out visitors manage- opportunities in tourism and in the „International Union for groups. The spectrum ranges from ment is important: where does the economy for the surrounding re- Conservation of Nature and kindergarten and grammar school recreation for people have priority? gions. These opportunities are more Natural Resources“ offers all the way to adult education Where is the development of fauna obvious in some regions than in oth- and specialized excursions aimed at and flora of particular importance? ers. One thing, however, should be It is an international organisation experts. The reasons behind this ed- In our modern, technological world, obvious: the offers in the protected with the aim to raise the aware- ucative efforts of the national park areas without climbing aids and areas – from theme hikes to school ness for the protection of nature can be found in the following quote: comfortable infrastructure are be- trips and scientific research teams and species, in order to allow a “You are only able to love what you coming an increasingly desired and – tempt many into the national park sustainable and careful use of resources. The organisation is know, and you are only able to pro- valued alternative. regions. mainly known for the publication tect, what you love”. Based on this, of the „Red Lists“ of endangered the passing on of knowledge leads The individual entrepreneurial spirit species and the categorisation of to a higher acceptance of the con- Economic Aspects is required as well as the coopera- protected areas. servation areas. tion of many in order to obtain eco- There are six categories. from nomic advantages for a region. The Ia and b – wilderness area – to National parks today are independ- national parks provide the ideal re- VI –resource reserves. National Recreation ent holiday destinations, and rep- quirements! Parks fall under category II. resent a rare economic commodity. These are protected areas man- aged mainly for the protection of The direct benefits to tourism and ecosystems and for recreation Almost a contradiction to nature the economy should nevertheless be purposes. conservation, but nevertheless, en- stronger on the borders of the pro- suring the recreational function of tected areas as well as in the hinter- the protected landscapes is just as land of the protected areas. A large important a task. Guests are part of the economic value creation invited to actively move (food, drink, sleep, and the means p.si for establishing the necessary in- ww.tn de w w.bfn. r.at ww www.nationalparks.o

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n the sunny side of the Alps! O T Characteristics Obertrias), and by its nearly one thousand metre thick layer of Cord- The National Park Triglav lies in the the same time, tall enough for na- Pointed limestone mountain ridg- evol limestone. Strongly fissured north-western part of Slovenia, on ture to display its true power. es of the Julian Alps, ranging over and glacier-formed valleys lie on all the border with neighbouring Italy 2,000 metres in height, are charac- sides of the Triglav, which is located and not too far from the Austrian As a typical alpine national park, teristics of the Triglav National Park. in the middle of the mountain range. border. It encompasses almost the the Triglav National Park cooper- Towards the north, craggy and im- Its aesthetically-pleasing shape is entire Slovenian T part of the Julian ates within the Network of Alpine pressive cliffs, ranging over hun- formed by boulders, forests, and Alps, meaning the eastern Julian protected areas. Since its found- dreds of metres in height, stretch clear bodies of water, which make Alps and a small part of the western ing in 1906, and the first protected out. In the southern part, however, up the backdrop of this high moun- Julian Alps. The Triglav National Park area which was established in 1924, the area is a bit flatter. In the west, tain range. It is the source of two is named after the Triglav (2,864 Triglav is one of the European na- the Dolomite prevails, which is why of Slovenia’s most important rivers, m), the highest mountain in Slov- tional parks with the longest tradi- the summits are more sharp, dis- the Sava and the Soča. enia and a national icon, which rep- tion. Its task is above all, to protect tinctive, and bold, with deep slopes There is not much surface water in resents the last important mountain and conserve the unique nature of over green valleys. In a geological the national park. The high moun- peak of the south-eastern Alps. With the Julian Alps, whereby it also car- aspect, the national park makes tain karst forms numerous water- its magnificent shape and its great ries out specialist, educational and its most important impression with ways and lakes in the insides of height, with which it amply towers research tasks. its one and a half thousand metre the mountains, whereby the water over neighbouring summits, the thick “Dachsteinkalk” (limestone - surfaces again through the charac- Triglav is justly the sovereign ruler teristic karst springs. Nevertheless of the Julian Alps, a true king. The Triglav Mountains are small enough to be nice and friendly, but at

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Lake Bohinj at Studor. The Soča gorge. The information centre „Trenta Haus“. The Konjščica mountain pasture. Narcissus at the Dovška Baba. View from Triglav. The Sava fountain at Podkoren. you will also find groups of glacial scape, which highlights the boulders ica, 2,515 m) below the Triglav. The al average precipitation rate is more curves which form lakes where the and rocks, in the southern part of average winter temperatures lie be- than 1,500 mm. There are between limestone layers are less porous. the national park. This makes the tween 0.7 °C and -8.8 °C. The annu- 120 and 145 rainy days per year. The Julian Alps provide an important appearance of identical landscape source of drinking water which ad- elements change substantially. As a ditionally highlights the importance mirror image of a thousand-years, Information: of its conservation. in harmony with nature, the inhab- National park administration and information centre The valleys are covered with abun- itants of the Julian Alps and their Triglavska roža, SI-4260 Bled dant forests, which grow on the lifestyle has been interwoven with Tel.: +386 (0)457 80 200 [email protected] northern side of the national park the nature of the Julian Alps. It has www.tnp.si up to 1,900 m, and on the southern become an inseparable part, which side up to 1,600 m. Forests are a is the base location of the common distinguishing element in the nation- cultural heritage of the national »Top 12« in the area of Tourism and Alpinism al park landscape, as two thirds of park today. its surface are forested. The nature The meeting of alpine and Medi- 1. Lake Bohinj with the Church of St. Johannes. found in the national park is very di- terranean influences can also be 2. Savica waterfalls, the source of Sava Bohinjka River. verse, colourful and vibrant. Many observed in the weather and in its 3. Brown cliff (Vogel), look-out point, ski area and starting point for mountain tours. of the plants and animals symbolize features. The harsh climate in the 4. Pokljuka with hikes in the forest, high moors, and the surrounding moun- the alpine world, such as edelweiss northern part of the national park is tains at all times of year. (Leontopodium alpinum), chamois a result of the influences from the 5. The Triglav (2,864 m). (Rupicapra rupicapra) and the gold- central European mountain and con- 6. Valley of the Triglav Lakes (Valley of the Seven Lakes). 7. Vrata Valley with the Peričnik waterfall and the northern face of the Triglav. en eagle (Aquila chrysaetos). tinental climate. On the other hand, 8. Vršič mountain pass, look-out point and starting point for mountain tours. An alpine cultivated landscape is in the Soča valley, the climate is no- 9. Trenta, especially the Soča source, the memorial for Dr. Julius Kugy, the typical with its farmed fields, mead- ticeably milder due to the Mediter- Mlinarica gorge, the botanical alpine garden named Juliana and ows, mountain meadows and grazing ranean influence. The average sum- the Trenta house („Dom Trenta“), information centre of the Triglav National Park. land, as well as valley settlements mer temperatures lie between 19.6 10. Mangart pass and Mangart-Sattel. and mountain pastures. These ele- °C in the valleys of Tolmin, where 11. Lake Krn and the mountain massif named Krn (2,244 m). ments contrast with the Medi- the lowest point of the Triglav Na- 12. The riverbed of Tolminka, commemoration church in Javorca and the terranean cultural land- tional Park can be found, and 5.6 °C village of Čadrg. p.si in the high mountain range (Kredar- w.tn ww

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From Bled,T for the Via Alpina path, you can admire the surround- lake is up to 15 m deep, and due to you reach hike through the ings that are filled with alpine flow- its typical form, it is also known as Lake Bohin- Triglav National ers and increasingly rare larches. Ledvička (“Little Kidney”). jsko, which Park. From here You will recognize the high Veliko Above the lake the trail contin- is an ideal you can hike via Špičje (2,398 m) directly in front ues over broad screes. Continue starting point the Koča pri Savici of you, to which a path branches in through the valley, where the trail (hut), past the small the upper valley. This way you will ascends over a distinctive barrier in Črno Lake, and directly reach the former grazing area of Pri the valley, and subsequently turn climb up the Koča pri Triglavskih utah, below the bulging face of the to the northeast. Through a com- Jerzerih (hut) to 1,685 m. Kopica’s (2,190 m) summit, which pletely bare and grey world, you is on your right hand. will reach a small body of water Stage R12 Koča pri Triglavskih At the crossroads, continue hiking called Lake Zeleno (Green Lake, Jerzerih - Tržaška koča na Doliču up the valley, towards the north. 1,988 m). The lake is named after Hiking time approx. 3h Below the eastern slopes and a the green algae growing on its floor. bit above the valley, you continue The trail through the valley of the Right behind the cabin you walk climbing until you can see a large Triglav lakes ends here. The trail on past Lake Močivec. Below the wall expanse of water. This is Lake Veliko the left leads you to the Zasavska of the Tičarice, you clime up to the (1,831 m), the largest of Triglav’s koča na Prehodavcih (hut) (2,071 plateau-like landscape at the foot seven lakes. At certain points, the m). You take the trail on the right, of the screes. Hiking along an easy and climb up to the dip, which falls and gently rising nformation I

oča pri riglavskih jezerih ržaška koča na oliču K T T D

Informacijska pisarna Planinsko društvo Radovljica

Ukanc 149 Gorenjska cesta 31

SI-4265 Bohinjsko jezero SI-4240 Radovljica

Mobile: +386 (0)406 20 783 Tel.: +386 (0)457 440 69

[email protected] Mobile: +386 (0)50 614 780

com alpe. w jske- Aljažev dom v Vratih ww .juli Planinska zveza Slovenije .via-a www lpina. .tnp.si org ww ing www Triglavska cesta 89 Alpenverein Slowenien w.pzs.si www.slovenia.info/hik SI-4281 Mojstrana Dvoržakova 9, SI-1000 Ljubliana Tel.: +386 (0)458 951 00 Tel.: +368 (0)143 456 80 16 www.pzs.si 17 from the edge of the Hribarice. In Stage A1 Tržaška koča na Doliču - mountain until it reaches the Korita. forest, descend into the Vrata val- serpentines, climb over the edge, Aljažev dom v Vratih The Korita is a deep gorge, which on ley, past the memorial for fallen par- and you reach the saddle between Hiking time approx. 4h one side drops down to the Zadn- tisan mountaineers until you reach the Poprovec on the left and the jice valley and on the other, extends the Aljažev dom v Vratih (hut) in 20 Vršaki on the right. You are at the Up until the crossroads below the up to the Luknja sadle (1,758 m). minutes. edge of the Hribarice, a broad, quite Luknja, the 13th stage of the Red The gorge is impassable, and there- flat and rocky plateau. To your right Trail is simultaneously the 1st stage fore the route continues on the mule Stage A2 Aljažev dom v Vratih - Dovje the trail from Zelnarica joins this of the Purple Trail. At first the trail track above the Korita. In serpen- Hiking time approx. 2h 30min trail. Cross the plateau which has takes you along a broad mule path, tines, climb up the steep moun- only sparse vegetation, towards which was created along the former tain slope. Doing so, you will have You leave the high mountain range the east, and you come closer to border by the Italian army after the conquered an altitude difference of and hike through the grand Vrata the starkly distinctive, rocky peak First World War. You start at the 250 metres! After 1 h 30 min, you valley, which is surrounded by two- of the Mišeljski konec. Below the signposts and hike in the direction will have reached the grassy Luknja thousand-metre high mountains. A Mišeljski koncec, you reach the sad- of Luknja and the Zadnjice Valley. saddle, providing you with a splen- large part of this trail takes you on an dle of Čez hribarice (2,358 m) which Soon a very difficult trail branches did view of the Vrata valley. asphalt road through forests, lead- is located between the Kanjavec off to the right in the direction of the From the Luknja pass, descend down ing from the Aljažev house, through and the Mišeljski konec. This is the Triglav (2,864 m). The ascent up a narrow rocky valley and over the the valley to the Peričnik waterfall. highest point of the stage. Over a the highest mountain in Slovenia is scree. Across the trail on the right, The waterfall, which is separated steep scree, you will climb down the reserved only for experienced, sure- you will see the high northern face into two parts falls 52 m in the lower upper end of the Velska Valley. At footed climbers who are not afraid of the Triglav. Between the grass part alone. At the end of the valley the crossroads, keep to the left and of heights. and the continuously thicker forests, you leave the Triglav National Park. follow the gently inclining path un- At the junction below the Tržaška you continue your journey through From Dovje, you have the possibility Information til you reach the Dolič Pass (2,164 koča na Doliču, you begin the gentle the valley. A well-trodden path leads of travelling to Podkoren or to Villach

m). Directly in front of you is the descent down to the Zadnjice Vaelly, you past a monument, to the Bis- via Jesenice, from where it is easy oča pri riglavskih jezerih ržaška koča na oliču K T T D Tržaška koča na Doliču (hut) (2,151 along a flat, winding path. South of trica, a mountain stream, where the to reach Admont, the next national

Informacijska pisarna Planinsko društvo Radovljica m), the end of this stage. the broad Zelenica plateau, you can path from the Triglav to the Prague park community at the Purple Trail.

Ukanc 149 Gorenjska cesta 31 observe the corrugated cliffs of the extends. At the junction, you can Or you decide to hike over the Kara-

SI-4265 Bohinjsko jezero SI-4240 Radovljica northern Kanjavec. Bare slopes are refresh yourself with clear drinking wanken and the Koralm to Admont

Mobile: +386 (0)406 20 783 Tel.: +386 (0)457 440 69 gradually replaced by dwarf pines water. However, during the dry sum- (22 daily stages). [email protected] Mobile: +386 (0)50 614 780 and rare larches. The path zigzags mer months the stream often dis-

around the rocky Skok appears. Through the com alpe. w jske- Aljažev dom v Vratih ww .juli Planinska zveza Slovenije .via-a www lpina. .tnp.si org ww ing www Triglavska cesta 89 Alpenverein Slowenien w.pzs.si www.slovenia.info/hik SI-4281 Mojstrana Dvoržakova 9, SI-1000 Ljubliana Tel.: +386 (0)458 951 00 Tel.: +368 (0)143 456 80 16 www.pzs.si 17 Berchtesgaden National Park

“On a single day through all climate zones, from moderate to polar, along the longest vertical in Germany!”

• Location: in south-eastern Bavaria, on the border to Austria • Founding year: 1978 • Surface area: 210 km² • Highest point: Watzmann at 2,713 m • Special features: Height amplitude of 2,110 m • IUCN category: II

Hohe Tauern National Park

“From the highest mountain in Austria over the meteorological divide and water divide through the second largest national park in Europe!”

• Location: Hohe Tauern between the springs of Isel, Möll, Mur and Salzach; Provinces: Salzburg, Carinthia and Tyrol • Founding year: 1981 • Surface area: 1,800 km² • Highest point: Großglockner at 3,798 m (highest mountain in Austria) • Special features: Glacier; broad parts still untouched by humans • IUCN category: II

18 Kalkalpen National Park

“The wilderness in an ocean of forest and the moated castle of Europe!”

• Location: in southern Upper Austria between the rivers of Steyr and Enns, encompasses the Sensen mountain range and the Reichraminger Hintergebirge (mountains) • Founding year: 1997 • Surface area: 208 km² • Highest point: Hoher Nock at 1,963 m • Special features: 30 different forest communities and 800 springs • IUCN-Category: II

Gesäuse National Park

“The last, unregulated river kilometres of the Enns rushes through the Gesäuse”

• Location: in the west of the bend of the Enns in upper Sty- ria, between Hieflau and Admont • Founding year: 2002 • Surface area: 110 km² • Highest point: Hochtor at 2,370 m • Special features: craggy Gesäuse mountains and gorge-like valley of the Enns • IUCN-Category: II

Triglav National Park

“The meeting of alpine and Mediterranean nature and culture!”

• Location: in north-western Slovenia, on the border to Italy and Austria in the Julian Alps • Founding year: 1981 • Surface area: 808 km² • Highest point: Triglav at 2,864 m • Special features: numerous endemic species, such as the Zois’ bell flower (Campanula zoysii), or the Soča trout 19 • IUCN-Category: II esäuse National Park

Welcome to the alpine region of Gesäuse National Park! and chamois at the same time? The G rare “Zierliche Federnelke” (delicate A national park, a nature park, ● On secured fixed rope routes, fol- ● Enjoy the culinary delights and feathered pink) and an until now and a monastery with an interna- low the legend of Gesäuse. numerous inns and taverns – our undiscovered species of stone flies tional reputation in the immediate ● Learn to understand nature at tip: try the “Xeis red deer”! are part of the botanical treasures. proximity: this is only possible in Gesäuse National Park, with ac- “Gesäuse”! ExpansiveG surfaces, tivities from summer and winter VISITOR FACILITIES AT THE framed by distinctive rock forma- programme. The Gesäuse National Park GESÄUSE NATIONAL PARK tions interchange with narrow val- ● Track geology during GeoLine ex- leys and create the perfect environ- cursions. Variety distinguishes the young- Weidendom and Lettmair Au ment for an unforgettable holiday. ● Taste the water on the rivers of est national park in Austria. It is The offers at “Gesäuse” are varied Enns and Salza, be it in a raft or more than 11,000 ha. (110 km²) in The Weidendom (the “willow ca- and diverse, and can best be de- in canoe. size, and was founded on October thedral”) is the largest living con- scribed by the following motto Ex- 26, 2002. Large difference in al- struction in the Alps, and provides perience Nature – Experience EXPERIENCE CULTURE titude, diverse steep locations and the scientific research workshop Culture! expositions, as well as a bedrock of with dignified surroundings. It is ● Experience the largest monas- limestone and greywacke, enable a a “building” made of living osier Experience Nature tery library in the world as well wide range of biodiversity. Where stakes. With modern technology, as the unique museum landscape else can you see alluvial forests the programme at Weidendom ● On hikes, some for all the fam- at the Benedictine monastery of ily, through the Gesäuse National Admont. Park or tank up with energy at the nature park in Styria’s Eisen- wurzen.

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20 21 Mountain tour with a view of The Enns with the Hochtorgroup. Weidendom and Lettmair Au. The library at the Admont monastery. Interactive national park exhibition. National park pavilion in Gstatterboden. the Hochtorgroupe. Thundering Enns at flood. esäuse National Park

guides you through the microcosm crossed, and a virtual climbing tour of life in water. must be conquered. A virtual flight Tip! The Weidendom is the starting point over the Gesäuse National Park and for the Au adventure trail in the its surroundings concludes the ex- 2 National Parks - 1 Trail Lettmair Au. This leads you along hibition. Hike along the ”VIA ALPINA” from Admont in the alpine region an elegant footbridge construction, Gesäuse National Park to Spital am Pyhrn, on the edge of the Kalk- over the alluvial forest, and the Location of visitor facilities alpen National Park, with luggage transport. backwaters of the Enns. Due to the raised position, the observer gets The Weidendom, the Lettmair Au Services: unknowing insight into the increas- and the national park pavilion are ● 4 x accommodation/breakfast ingly rare habitat of the alluvial for- located directly on the Gesäuse ● Entry to Admont Monastery museum est. national road, and can be easily ● 24 hour ticket Styria Public transport network reached by public transport. ● Entry to geology exhibition at the national park pavilion ● Entry to research workshop at Weidendom National park pavilion ● Luggage transport Admont – Spital am Pyhrn Gstatterboden with an ● Entry to Dr. Vogelgesang gorge interactive geology exhibition Information: ● Bowling evening Nationalpark Gesäuse ● Entry to panoramic indoor swimming pool at Spital am Pyhrn * The architectonic, innovative na- Tel.: +43 (0)3613 211 60 20 ● Scheduled public transit bus Spital am Pyhrn - Wurzeralm – tional park pavilion in Gstatterboden [email protected] Windischgarsten * has an information stand, a restau- www.nationalpark.co.at ● Funicular railway Wurzeralm * rant and catering business, as well or ● Wurzer Natural Adventure World – themed loop trail * as a modern, interactive geological Alpenregion Nationalpark Gesäuse ● Chair lift Wurbauerkogel Windischgarsten * ● Entry to Kalkalpen National Park panoramic tower with the exhibition. Tel.: +43 (0)3613 211 60 10 “Faszination Fels” (Fascinating Rocks) exhibition* The creation of the Gesäuse moun- [email protected] tains is explained in eight stages, www.alpenregion.cc * Entry with the “Pyhrn-Priel AktivCard”, which you receive free of charge whereby you need to manually op- with your overnight stay!

erate each stage. Mountains have to both situated at You can find the detailed programme with the exact route description, price information be unfolded, ice age glaciers Infobüro Admont and a „Via Alpina” hiking ticket at the information office in Admont or the one in Hauptstraße 35 Spital am Pyhrn. o.at A-8911 Admont ark.c onalp w.nati ww

The heart is wild! for hours through the forest without In the 20 mountain pasture regions, Water determines the everK meeting a single person. Instead you will also find “peterg‘stamm” landscape Deep gorges, ridges, karst caves you can find all kinds of animals and (Aurikel), gentians and alpine roses. and innumerable fountains are hid- plants that you will rarely see else- 1.500 different types of butterflies You will find over 800 springs in the den at the Kalkalpen National Park. where. Lynxes, alpine longicorns, have been found, and the “Höh- Kalkalpen National Park. The numer- Wilderness has been expanding here capercaillies, black grouses, hazel lenlaufkäfer” (a kind of beetle) - ous, nature-orientated brooks and for more than ten years. While new hens, red deer, and chamois have “Arctaphaenops muellneri” is unique rivers in the region bring a colour- trails are being builtK in other moun- made this region their home. With a in the world. In the just recently dis- ful multitude of insects, amphibians, tains, landscapes furnished with cab- bit of luck you can observe golden covered giant Klara cave the largest fish and birds. ins and forests equipped with new eagles, peregrine falcons or black stalagmite in Austria was found. Large and small natural wonders wood trails, tranquillity has returned storks on their majestic flights. Hikers who want to experience wil- are formed by this element of mois- to Kalkalpen National Park. Thirty different forest communities derness are in the right place in the ture: the kilometre-long conglomer- The largest, enclosed woodlands exist in the Kalkalpen National Park. Kalkalpen region. They can hike ate gorge of Steyr which is mostly in Austria are situated here, and it In this environment, thousands of optimally marked hiking, biking still left in its natural state between would need further trails in order flowering plants, moss and ferns and theme trails of mountain sum- Frauenstein and Grünburg, (inter- to penetrate the national park. This thrive, including a number of treas- mits with great views, introspective mittent) karst springs such as the woodland is similar to the broad for- ures that have become rare else- mountain pastures, and colourful “Teufelskirche” which originates est expanses of Canada. In the pris- where: pyramidenorchis and lady’s meadows of flowers. near St. Pankraz under a free-stand- tine forests, trees are able to grow, slipper, mountain avens and orchids, ing rock bridge, or the source of the get old and die; just like nature stone roses and Globularia. Pießling in Roßleithen, the largest intended. Mountain pastures and meadows are colourful islands in the sea of forests. You can hike

n.at kalpe w.kal ww ion.com alparkreg www.nation

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Sun rise at Engerdinkar. Jörglgraben in the Hintergebirge. The imposing golden eagle. Balcony trail at the Sensengebirge. The roaring waters of Goldloch springs. Forest wilderness at the national park. Winter landscape at Engerdinkar. alkalpen National Park

and most impressive karst spring in blacksmiths and hammer mill own- will be able to see unique pictures of Upper Austria. ers, at the stately hammer mill golden eagles and wallcreepers, as Eat well and sleep well in One of the most beautiful water homes, the iron and wheat stores well as the craggy mountain world the Kalkalpen National wonders is the ravine world in the and the richly adorned fronts of the of the Kalkalpen. From the crystal- Reichraminger Hintergebirge (moun- cities and the markets. Jaw’s harp like glass tower, you can admire the Park Region tain range). Its heart is the “Große shops, feitel manufacturers, nail- mountain world of the Kalkalpen Schlucht” (Large Ravine), an epige- ers or scythe shops invite you for a National Park region with more than 31 quality-inspected hotels netic breakthrough: an unhurried visit. 21 two-thousand-metre high moun- and guest houses are situat- stream buried itself in softer layers tains. ed in the Kalkalpen National Park region. From farms for of soil; as soon as it reached harder First port of call are the children to cosy bed- and- rocks, it had to stay with its selected three national park visitor s At the national park visitor’s cen- ’ breakfasts, as well as guest- route. Thus, it milled a 200 metre centres tre in Ennstal in Reichraming, houses and the National deep, “ravine arch” into the dolomite you can gain interesting insights Park Hotel Villa Sonnwend rocks – an obstacle which the wood- At the national park centre in into the forest wilderness of the Ka- in Windischgarsten provide cutters once had to cross on dizzy- Molln, an adventure exhibition in- lkalpen National Park. You can learn you with a broad selection of ingly high wooden bridges. forms you about the mysterious and about bush drums in the forest, the places to stay. Attractive hik- hidden world of water. Play stations, forest apartments, the wood eaters, ing packages, shared adven- The Eisenstrasse (iron road) films and reliefs provide you with in- and the return of forest wilderness ture programmes, taxis which you take you from town to sight into the wildest landscapes in in the Kalkalpen National Park. town; the cooperation with The Eisenstraße runs around the Ka- Austria. the Kalkalpen National Park lkalpen National Park. Along this road and with mountain guides you find many signs of a great past. At the national park Panorama- Information: ensures an adventuresome, Through the centuries, iron from the turm at the adventure mountain National Park cente Molln safe and relaxing hiking holi- streams and rivers of Kalkalpen Na- Wurbauerkogel in Windisch- Nationalpark Allee 1, A-4591 Molln day. tional Park region was turned into garsten, the exhibition “Faszination Tel.: +43 (0)7584 36 51 sickles, scythes, blades or knives. Fels” (Fascinating Rocks) informs [email protected] www.wanderspezialisten.at You can still see the former pros- you about everything extraordinary, www.kalkalpen.at perity which the iron trade special and exceptional regarding brought to the the plant and animal world situat- n.at kalpe ed above the forest borders. At the w.kal ww rocky cinema, you ion.com alparkreg www.nation

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Knittefeld is easily accessible, and and onto the pilgrimage trail down rural road, in the direction of Schat- O offers a good starting point to the to Seckau with the Benedectine Ab- tenberg, until you reach the village Via Alpina. bey. The road leads you through a of Ingering II. small forest, down into the Graden- bach valley, where you cross the Stage A 23: Ingering II - Trieben Stage A 22: Knittelfeld - Ingering II road to the stone mill at the “Moar” Hiking time approx. 9h 30min (shortcut Hiking time approx. 5h grange (810 m). Towards the west possible by bus, from Braun Tavern.) you continue up a slightly inclined From the town centre, hike into road along the village street, un- From Ingering II, follow the forest the suburb of “Hautzenbichl”. From til you reach a small chapel at the road to the Ingering valley, where there, follow a slightly uphill forest “Weigand” grange. Turn left into a the 02 Zentralalpenweg (Central road to the Böckstein farm. forest trail which you follow until Alpine Trail) joins the 08 Eisenwur- Soon you will reach the just before the “Kielbrein” grange. zenweg. At the Prater bridge, keep 1,194 m high Trem- At this point you will be able to en- to the right until you reach the Rei- melberg with its dou- joy a superb view of the villages of cherhube grange. Along the roadway The sec- ble-towered wooden Bischoffeld and Ingering II with its and the Ingering river, you continue tion from lookout post. Wasserberg Palace. Branching to slightly upwards until you arrive at Knittelfeld to From Tremmelberg the left again, you walk through a Lake Ingering which lies at an alti- Spital am Pyhrn the trail climbs gen- cool forest trail down to the former tude of 1,221 m. The trail continues not only leads you tly up towards the “Braunwirt” Tavern (785 m) and the along the right bank of the lake. Fur- through two provinces, Kalvarien church, ther on, the trail becomes narrower but also connects the and steeper. The national park regions of Information Gesäuse and Kalkalpen

with one another. Rohrauerhaus Bosruckhütte

OeAV-Sektion Spital am Pyhrn Naturfreundehaus Tel.: +43 (0)7563 666 Ortsgruppe Linz Tel.: +43 (0)7563 660 Mobile: +43 (0)664 134 31 81

Mobile: +43 (0)676 722 12 23 [email protected]

www.bosruckhuette.at

at nde. Benediktiner Abtei Seckau Stift Admont rfreu Oesterreichischer A lpenverein .natu www ein.at Seckau 1, A-8732 Seckau A-8911 Admont 1 .alpenver Wilhelm-Greil-Str. 15, A-6010 Innsbruck www.via-alpina.org www Tel.: +43 (0)3514 52 34 Tel.: +43 (0)3613 23 12 0 (from 1st of June 2008: Olympiastr. 37, A-6020 Innsbruck) www.abteigym-seckau.ac.at/abtei [email protected] Tel.: +43 (0)512 595 47 24 www.stiftadmont.at Fax: +43 (0)512 575 528 25 [email protected] www.alpenverein.at numerous larches swerve around trail until you reach the settlement Essling stream. Follow the course of est ravine in Austria. At the power dwarf pines and bilberries. Only one of Obersonnberg. After a short as- the stream along this beautiful for- station of Spital am Pyhrn, the trail track leads up to the Kettentörl at cent over pastures you arrive at the est trail northwards. The Via Alpina from the ravine joins up with the 1,864 m, whereby the last stretch is roadway near the farm “Egger”, and leads you on the salt trail through roadway from the Bosruckhütte. It quite steep. in an easy uphill climb, you reach the forest to a small salt inhalation is a leisurely hike to the town centre From Kettentörl, the trail continues the “Kaiserau” main road. The broad centre. At the point where the salt of Spital am Pyhrn. down into the Ketten valley and via path to Nagelschmiede Tavern can- trail opens up to the road, keep to the Kettentalalm onto a forest trail not be missed. Right behind the tav- the right and then turn left, short- Kalkalpen National Park is in the in the Hinteren Trieben valley. At ern, left of the street, you will find a ly afterwards. Passing the “Alpen- direct proximity of Spital am Pyhrn. this point, the 02 and the 08 tracks track that leads you slightly up the heim”, the Via Alpina continues to By bus or by train (both depart from split: the 02 continues on the forest Lichtmess stream. Finally, you ar- the power station in Mühlau. At the the train station), you can easily trail to the south, along the Mödring rive at a forest trail which takes you parking lot, the Via Alpina turns to reach Windischgarten, in order to stream to Mödringalm, and finally, to Kaiserau main road again. Soon the left and follows the forest trail. visit the Kalkalpen National Park to Triebener Törl. The Via Alpina, on you will reach the place-name sign Here you can take one last look at – the park with the most forest and the other hand, follows the 08 out for Admont, which marks the vil- Hall, Admont and the mountains of the most water in Austria, as well as of the Trieben valley to the Braun lage not only as an European village Gesäuse. Continue through the for- to experience its extensive informa- Tavern. From the tavern it is pos- but also a national park community. est until you reach the “Pyhrgasgat- tion programme. sible to travel to Trieben by bus, in Continue hiking easily through the terl”, the provincial border between order to shorten this long stage. district called “Paradies” until you Styria and Upper Austria. On a gen- Both from Spital am Pyhrn as well reach the centre of Admont. tly rolling trail, follow the track to as from Windischgarten, you have Stage A 24: Trieben - Admont A visit to the national park house in the Rohrauerhaus, which is very excellent train connections to Selz- Hiking time approx. 3h 20min Admont, as well as to the monas- idyllic and located at the foot of the thal or Kirchdorf an der Krems. Or tery with the largest library in the Großen Pyhrgas. you can continue on the Via Alpina Information Up to the village of Dietmannsdorf world is definitely worth your while. From the Roherauerhaus continue to the next national park, the Ber-

the Via Alpina follows the 08 trail down the forest trail in the direction chtesgaden National Park (15 daily Rohrauerhaus Bosruckhütte on the main road and crosses the Stage A 25: Admont - Spital am of the Bosruckhütte. A steep track stages).

OeAV-Sektion Spital am Pyhrn Murtal motorway. Keep to the right Pyhrn provides a shortcut and within ap- Naturfreundehaus Tel.: +43 (0)7563 666 past the beautiful small church, and Hiking time approx. 5h 30min prox. 30-45 minutes you will have Ortsgruppe Linz Tel.: +43 (0)7563 660 Mobile: +43 (0)664 134 31 81 follow the street up, which soon reached the popular lodge. Shortly

Mobile: +43 (0)676 722 12 23 [email protected] opens into a forest trail. In Admont, follow the main street after this, there is a worthwhile al- www.bosruckhuette.at Stay on this in the direction of “Hall”. Right after ternative through the “Dr. Vogelge-

the bridge, turn right and cross the sang” ravine. It is the second long- at nde. Benediktiner Abtei Seckau Stift Admont rfreu Oesterreichischer A lpenverein .natu www ein.at Seckau 1, A-8732 Seckau A-8911 Admont 1 .alpenver Wilhelm-Greil-Str. 15, A-6010 Innsbruck www.via-alpina.org www Tel.: +43 (0)3514 52 34 Tel.: +43 (0)3613 23 12 0 (from 1st of June 2008: Olympiastr. 37, A-6020 Innsbruck) www.abteigym-seckau.ac.at/abtei [email protected] Tel.: +43 (0)512 595 47 24 www.stiftadmont.at Fax: +43 (0)512 575 528 25 [email protected] www.alpenverein.at erchtesgaden National Park

Experience nature at all times of year! education, recreation and monu- take a break, and offer big and small B ment maintenance are likewise all refreshments with typical products. Nature is always in season birthday. However, the history of na- the tasks of the conserved area. This is how Berchtesgaden National – even in Germany’s sole alpine ture conservation in this region goes Park tastes like! national park. The independ- back further: After the establish- In order to keep pollution for flora and ent development of animals and ment of the “Vereins zum Schutze fauna as low as possible, recreation The national park is filled with a re- plants are, naturally, a top pri- und zur Pflege von Alpenplfanzen” on foot is the main focus. Around 230 markable diversity of different spe- ority in the conservationB area (association for the protection and kilometres of hiking trails and alpine cies. You may come across deer, red around the Watzmann and the care of alpine plants) in 1900, a spe- tracks encompass Berchtesgaden deer, chamois, ibexes, woodchucks, Königssee. But this is not all: cial area for plants was established, National Park: from the Reiteralm arctic hares, grouses, as well as the visitors can gain unique expe- and in 1921 it was designated the via the Hochkalter, Steinernes Meer “King of the Skies”, the golden eagle. riences in the wilderness, and Königssee nature reserve. In 1978, (Stony Sea) and the Watzmann, to The majestic bird of prey plays a spe- become acquainted with the big the dream of many nature lovers and the Funtenseetauern and the Hohen cial role, and is the centre of inter- and small secrets of the golden nature conservationists came true: Göll. There is something for every- est for many visitors. In Klausbach eagle, woodchucks and co. the Berchtesgaden National Park body here, regardless of whether you valley there are three adventure was finally created. The primary ob- are an ambitious mountain climber, trails where you can find information The Berchtesgaden National Park jective is to protect nature and con- leisurely hiker, or a family with chil- about the “King of the Skies”. In the is located in the south-eastern part serve it in its original state, according dren. Numerous open mountain hots national park there are five breeding of Bavaria, and borders on the Aus- to the motto: let nature be nature. at the edge of the trail invite you to pairs; in the entire alpine area there trian province of Salzburg. It cov- That, however, is not all: research, are an estimated 1,300 pairs. The ers an area of around 210 square environmental variety of flora is also kilometres, and is exclusively public property. In 2008 the national park will celebrate its 30th

e en.d sgad rchte ark-be ationalp www.n

26 27 Children’s group at the Hintersee The Watzmann east wall. Cliff pins below the Mayrbergscharte. Often seen in NP: the ibex. View of Königssee. information stand. Magnificent colours of the alpine rose. Kärlingerhaus at Funtensee. erchtesgaden National Park

amazing: apart from alpine roses, the lake. The Klausbach valley is mation is available at the address: Projects in Berchtesgaden snow roses, and gentians, there are the third main valley in the national www.nationalpark-berchtesgaden. National Park also very rare plants such as the park. It is around seven kilometres de. Swiss mannsschild, lady’s slipper, long, and stretches from Lake Hinter Berchtesgaden National Park takes and the Pyrenees “Drachenmaul”. to the Hirschbichl Pass – the border In 2011, Berchtesgaden will be gain- part in numerous national and with neighbouring Austria. In the ing another attraction: the “Haus international projects. Some A special geological feature is the Klausbach valley, an “Alm Erlebnis- der Berge” (house of mountains) – a are solely carried out by the Wimbach valley – one of three main bus” (mountain pasture adventure centre for environmental informa- national park, others are carried valleys in the national park. It is bus) is operated during the summer tion and education at the heart of out together with universities and situated between the massifs of months, and comfortably transports Berchtesgaden. Apart from a diverse agencies, other nature conserva- Watzmann and Hochkalter, and is of hikers and friends of nature to and exhibition area and a large outdoor tion areas or project partnerships. unique beauty: the deeply cut Wim- from the national park. adventure area, the emphasis is on At the moment experts are working on climate change projects, bach ravine, high rising steep faces environmental education for young research on bats, moths and on both sides, as well as the up to Around 1,5 million guests visit the and old. small butterflies and a forest 300 metres thick flow of detritus national park each year. This large development plan. In addi- – so-called “Gries” – are the distinc- interest confirms its extraordinary Natural experiences at all times of tion, experts are working on tive elements of this grand mountain attractions: for locals, holiday-goers, year: welcome to Berchtesgaden projects such as ALPENCOM world. The Königssee is world fa- people searching for rest and recov- National Park. We are looking for- (Alp Environmental Communica- mous, and is situated in the König ery, researchers, mountain athletes, ward to your visit! tion) or HABITALP (Alpine Habitat valley with the St. Bartholomä’s pe- families, children and friends of Diversity). In this way the national ninsula. The Königssee is one of the nature of any age. The whole year Information: park is contributing to the understanding of connections and the cleanest lakes in Germany. Since round, the national park offers its Nationalpark Haus protection of other regions. 1909 only environmentally-friendly guests a colourful programme: from Franziskanerplatz 7 electric boats have been using the horse-carriage rides in winter to bat D-83471 Berchtesgaden lake. The characteristically green hikes, grill evenings around the camp Tel.: +49 (0)8652 643 43 colour comes from the limestone, fire and guided tours in the valley of Fax: +49 (0)8652 694 34 which has dissolved in the water, the eagle. The hiking brochures are [email protected] and been broken down by available in the Berchtesgaden na- www.nationalpark-berchtesgaden.de the sunlight that tional park house as well as in the e en.d shines into tourist information centres in the sgad erchte surrounding villages. More infor- ark-b ationalp www.n

An imposing Via Alpina section you. At the fork in the road, keep to Riemannhaus begins. Numerous V is waiting for you: on the stages the left and follow the signposts in stone steps and wire ropes aid you A 39 – 41, over the sparse “Stony the direction of the Riemannhaus. in your ascent, which is partially ex- Sea”, to the beautiful, crystal-clear After hiking a lengthy part, you will posed. Once you have passed the Königssee, into which the eastern reach the upper parking lot and a “Ramseidner Scharte”, however, face of the Watzmann dives verti- barrier. This is where the nature you are practically right at the foot cally. conservation area of Kalkhochalpen of the Sommerstein , also known Starting point of the tour is Maria begins. The vegetation becomes as the “Eule” (owl) because its to Alm. You can travel comfortably to increasingly lighter, and there is a caves appear like big eyes. Saalfelden by train, and take the view of the Breithorn to your left, The Sommerstein is a popular climb- postbus to the idyllic village with and the marvellous Sommerstein to ing mountain, whereby the route Salzburg’s highest church tower. your right. difficulty ranges between 8 and 9. Continue over the “Sandten”, where From the back of the Riemannhaus the trail becomes increasingly steep. (2,177 m), you can easily climb Stage A 39: Maria Alm - Riemannhaus To your left, a path forks to the up the Sommerstein in about 20 Hiking time approx. 4h 30min “Fürstenbrünnl” and to the “Bilgeri- minutes. The view is magnificent: rast”, a spring where you can re-fill on the one side the green forests Follow the Griess stream from Mar- your water bottles. of Maria Alm, the Saalfelden basin ia Alm to the “Griessbachwinkel”. At the bottom end of the goods ca- and Zell am See stretch out, and on On the asphalt road, the trail con- ble lift a very steep ascent to the the other side: the wasteland of the tinues slightly upwards, with the stony high plateau. Stony Sea in front of Information

- Tourismusverband Maria Alm Tourismusregion Berchtesgaden

Königssee Nr. 65, A-5761 Maria Alm

Tel.: +43 (0)6584 7816 Königsseer Str. 1, D-83471 Berchtesgaden

Fax: +43 (0)6584 7600 Tel.: +49 (0)8652 967 0

[email protected] Fax: +49 (0)8652 967 400

[email protected]

.de erein lpenv Riemannhaus Kärlingerhaus ww.a Deutscher Alpenverein e . V . .org w ia-alpina www.v DAV-Sektion Ingoldstadt DAV-Sektion Berchtesgaden Von-Kahr-Str. 2-4 Fax: +49 (0)89 14003 98 Tel./Fax: +43 80)6582 733 00 Tel.: +49 (0)8652 609 10 10 D-80997 München [email protected] Mobile: +43 (0)664 211 03 37 [email protected] Tel.: +49 (0)89 14003 0 www.alpenverein.de 28 [email protected] www.kaerlingerhaus.de 29 28 www.riemannhaus.de An excursion to the Schönfeldspitze, Rotwandl (2,231 m), which gets its 421 with its difficult ascent to the est rock cliff in the eastern Alps. with its large wooden cross that is name from its distinctly red colour: Siegeretplatte (you must be sure- It was first climed in 1881 by Jo- well known beyond the borders of it is red jura limestone. footed and have no fear of heights), han Grill Sr. The baroque church Salzburg, is definitely worth your Soon you reach the “Schwarze and subsequently the descent into in St. Bartholomä was inaugurated while. The ascent over the Schönegg Lacke”, a small waterhole to the the Wimbach valley. After St. Bar- on 25.08.1134, making it the old- and the Wurmkopf is fabulous, but right of the trail. After the long tholomä you have to continue on- est church in the Berchtesgaden you have to be sure-footed and not march across the treeless terrain, ward on trail no. 412, in the direc- region. Possibilities for accommo- afraid of heights. Shortly below the there is a dense forest area at the tion of Saugasse. Shortly thereafter dation are reserved only for climb- summit of Schönfeldspitze, there is Stony Sea. At a height of 1,787 m you will notice 36 narrow, jagged ers of the Watzmann east wall in a very exposed and therefore dif- you cross the border from Austria hairpin bends which descend down a lodge of the DAV (the German ficult part to conquer, but the view to Germany and at the same time the Saugasse. At the end, there is Alpine association), rest stops can is absolutely magnificent. the border with the Berchtesgaden a distinctive, rather crudely carved be found in the restaurant and fish- National Park. Through the forest crucifix, bearing the name “Foaster smokehouse. you reach Lake Funten (Funten- Herrgott”. With a boat you can easily cross the Stage 40: Riemannhaus - Kärlinger- see). Along the bank, you will soon A very lovely stretch follows through Königssee and reach the village of haus reach the Kärlingerhaus (1,630 m). sparse, untouched beech wood, Königssee. Hiking time approx. 2h 30min which leads you past a lodge, the Schrainbach Holzstube - a wooden Busses regularly run to Berchtes- The trail from the Riemannhaus Stage A 41: Kärlingerhaus - cabin used to serve as a refuge for gaden, where there are good train to the Kärlingerhaus is the short- Königssee woodcutters. Shortly before the connections. est crossing over the Stony Sea to Hiking time approx. 4h end of the descent you cross the Berchtesgaden. The trail is promi- Schrain stream, and after another nent with red-white-red markings. The descent from the Kärlingerhaus sharp bend, you will see a thun- Information With snow and fog, however, it to St. Bartholomä via the “Sau- dering waterfall. Finally you reach

can sometimes be difficult to find gasse” is a well-built, well-marked the alluvial fans of St. Bartholomä, - Tourismusverband Maria Alm Tourismusregion Berchtesgaden your way. After a light climb, you and popular trail. At the first fork cross another distinguishing debris

Königssee soon reach the highest point of the in the road, keep to the right in the cone, and return to civilisation with Nr. 65, A-5761 Maria Alm stage at the “Salzburger Kreuz”, at direction of the “Ofenloch”. At the its taverns, boat moorings, and the Tel.: +43 (0)6584 7816 Königsseer Str. 1, D-83471 Berchtesgaden 2,135 m. From here you have waterhole of the dilapidated Ober- church. Fax: +43 (0)6584 7600 Tel.: +49 (0)8652 967 0 a great view of the lahner Alm, you are able to enjoy All of this lies at the foot of the [email protected] Fax: +49 (0)8652 967 400 a small break. The next fork in the impressive, nearly 2,000 m high [email protected] road goes left onto the trail no. Watzmann east wall, the high- .de erein lpenv Riemannhaus Kärlingerhaus ww.a Deutscher Alpenverein e . V . .org w ia-alpina www.v DAV-Sektion Ingoldstadt DAV-Sektion Berchtesgaden Von-Kahr-Str. 2-4 Fax: +49 (0)89 14003 98 Tel./Fax: +43 80)6582 733 00 Tel.: +49 (0)8652 609 10 10 D-80997 München [email protected] Mobile: +43 (0)664 211 03 37 [email protected] Tel.: +49 (0)89 14003 0 www.alpenverein.de [email protected] www.kaerlingerhaus.de 29 28 www.riemannhaus.de ohe Tauern National Park

Exciting in so many ways! 25 years of Hohe Tauern National park Pionieer, Albert Wirth H National Park over thundering mountain streams; The foundation stone for the con- With 1,800 km² of surface area, busy woodchucks can be seen when 25 years ago, a law pasted the pro- servation area was established the Hohe Tauern National Park is the hiking in the national park. The vincial government of Carinthia es- by the wood industrialist, Albert largest nature conservation area in beautiful colours of the forests and tablished the Carinthian part of the WIRTH. He bought a 4,072 hectare the Alps. It is one of the most awe- the unique view entices many hik- Hohe Tauern National Park. Salzburg large area on the Carinthian side of some landscapes H on earth, and is ers to come in the autumn in order and Tyrol followed suit. At the time, the Großglockner, and donated this a Noah’s Ark for thousands of ani- to observe nature preparing for the a lot of pioneer work was necessary area to the Austrian Alpine Associa- mals and plants. In May, there are upcoming winter. – Hohe Tauern was not a complete- tion in 1918. There was one condi- colourful spring flowers waving ly untouched and unsettled region, tion: the Alpine Association should in lush green meadows, provid- Another special feature is the culti- but an area that had grown, in both establish a national park there. The ing a unique contrast to the sum- vated landscape of the region. Hu- natural and cultivated landscapes, background for this donation was mits (over 100 three-thousand me- mans, who have been living here for for centuries. clear: tourist and economical de- tre peaks), which are still deeply centuries, live in harmony with the Conflicts between conservation and velopment in the Alps had already blanketed in snow. During the hot nature of the landscape all the way exploitation of nature were pre-de- begun at the beginning of the last- summer months, an unbelievable up the mountain valleys. Therefore termined. century. Technological progress en- life force emanates from the Hohe you can still see many open cabins abled projects which no one would Tauern. The mountain meadows are and lodges, and enjoy traditional have dared dream of before. The a unique, dazzling sea of flowers, treats of the region. “Hochalpenstraße” (High Alpine with innumerable butterflies. The ravens perform adventurous flight demonstration. The majestic golden eagle glides

rn.at etaue w.hoh ww

30 31

The Hagener cabin. The Tauern Cross on the Ruperti Trail. En-route in Dösen Valley. Der Reißeck balcony trail. Lake Dösen. The Arthur-von-Schmidt house. Golden autumn. ohe Tauern National Park

Road) of the Großglockner or the three-province agreement - which one of the most valuable landscapes hiking trail) was opened – and with Kaprun power station are a testi- stipulated the establishment of a in Europe. However, 25 years ago, it, an extensive information infra- mony of this period. national park in Hohe Tauern. Once scepticism and rejection with which structure for the visitors of the con- A cable car to the Johannisberg was again, there were power station was met the planned conservation servation area. planned, and a parking lot for al- and cable car projects which lie in area, was immense: concerned land Today, the Hohe Tauern National pine tourists was supposed to be weight on the cusp of the conserva- owners, mayors in the planned na- Park (1,836 square meters) is the developed in the area of Gams- tion area and which promised the tional park villages, hunters, farm- largest nature conservation area in grube. With his donation, Wirth region tourist development, pros- ing communities – the committed the European Alps. A natural land- wanted to protect the Großglockner perity, and jobs – but also the de- proponents of the national park scape, basically untouched in the and Pasterze (the longest glacier in struction of nature. idea had to work very hard in order core zone, providing with many Austria and the eastern Alps) from to convince the masses at innumer- rare animals and plants a secure such a mistreatment. Carinthia is a forerunner able meetings. The fear that the habitat. A treasure, of which with Dedicated individuals, nature con- national park could lead to restric- many people are proud and which servationists and alpine associa- Although all three provinces were tions for hunters, farmers or climb- still need to be protected. tions demanded more protection in agreement about the politi- ers was very large. for the glacier region of Hohe Tau- cal convention of the “Heiligenblut (quoted from: Nationalpark Hohe Tauern ern over the years. A “nature con- Declaration”, the legal basis for the Impulses for the region – Spring 2006 – 25 Jahre Nationalparks servation park” was demanded, as establishment of a national park in Österreich (25 years of national parks was a Tauern park or national park developed at different speeds. Car- A breakthrough came when the na- in Austria), Claudia Lagler) – which were only known form the inthia took an important step in tional park activists took a message USA at the time. 1981, when it regulated the estab- from Vienna to the Hohe Tauern: in lishment of a national park on 186 1982, the state provided subsidies Information: Three-province agreement of square kilometres in the Schober for the national park region for the Hohe Tauern National Park Heiligenblut and Glockner mountain ranges. This first time. From the beginning it Carinthia “solo attempt”, however, was criti- was clear that a conservation area Döllach 14, A-9843 Großkirchheim In 1971, the provincial govern- cized because people feared that would also bring impulses for regio- Tel.: +43 (0)4825 6161 ments of Carinthia, Salzburg, and the base consensus of the Heiligen- economical development. Model www.hohetauern.at Tyrol signed the “Agreement blut Declaration could be in danger. regions and projects were created, of Heligenblut” – a Salzburg followed in 1983, Tyrol en- the first infrastructure projects were t ern.a acted its national park law in 1991. discussed. In 1983, the “Gletscher- etau w.hoh Today, pride prevails in possessing weg Pasterze” (glacier ww

30 31

The Hagener cabin. The Tauern Cross on the Ruperti Trail. En-route in Dösen Valley. Der Reißeck balcony trail. Lake Dösen. The Arthur-von-Schmidt house. Golden autumn. ver the Water and the Meteorological Divide to the South

O The Ruperti Trail From the Königssee to Bad which the descent to Taxenbach – the Austrian Hofgastein follows. The Kitzloch ravine is also l o n g - d i s t a n c e very interesting, through which the hiking trail no. From Berchtesgaden, the Königssee trail to the Rauriser valley and Rau- 10 – is an op- and St. Bartholomä, you climb – fol- ris leads. timal connec- lowing the Purple Trail of Via Alpina In order to reach the Gasteiner val- tion from the in the reverse direction – up to the ley, a further ascent to the See- Berchtesgaden Kärlingerhaus and over the broad, bachscharte is necessary, before National Park sparse plateau of the Steinernen you descend across the Biberalm along the Purple Meer (Stony Sea) to the Riemann- and hike down to Bad Hofgastein. Trail of Via Alpina to haus, from where you can enjoy Bad Hofgastein is easily accessible the Hohe Tauern Na- a breath-taking view of the green by train from Schwarzach St. Veit. tional Park and fur- Saalfelden basin all the way to Zell Mallnitz, on the other side of the Al- ther on to Naßfeld in am See and the Kitzsteinhorn. pine main ridge, is also accessible Carinthia along the After the descent to Maria Alm, exit by train. The car-train through the Red Trail of the Via the Via Alpina and follow the Ruper- Tauern tunnel allows you to bring Alpina. It completes ti Trail southwards. your private car. the circle of the A long ascent leads you to the long-distance hik- Statzerhaus on the Hundstein, from ing trails.

Information

Kur- und Tourismusverband Urlaubsinformation Mallni t z

ad ofgastein B H A-9822 Mallnitz 11

Tauernplatz 1, A-5630 Bad Hofgastein NATIONALPARK HOHE TAUERN

Tel.: +43 (0)6432 3393 Tel.: +43 (0)4784 290

Fax: +43 (0)6432 339 32 32 Fax: +43 (0)4784 635 [email protected] [email protected] www.mallnitz.at www.tiscover.at/badhof- in.at gastein nvere Hagener Hütte .alpe esterreichischer lpenverein www O A derer weitwan DAV-Sektion Hagen Sektion Weitwanderer www.alpenverein.at/ Tel.: +43 (0)4732 4290 32 Mobile: +43 (0)664 403 66 97 Thaliastrasse 159/3/16, A-1160 Wien [email protected] 32 Tel./Fax: +43 (0)1 493 84 08 www.alpenverein.at/weitwanderer 33 Mobile: +43 (0)664 27 37 242 Bad Hofgastein – Sportgastein Sportgastein – Hagener Hütte Further to Nassfeld on the red In order to reach the Sonnenalpe Hiking time approx. 7h 30min – Mallnitz route of Via Alpina on the Naßfeld, you have to go via Hiking time approx. 6h 30min Möderndorf and the Kühweger Alm From Bad Hofgastein, the trail first The final seven stages of the up to the Kühweger Törl and over runs parallel to the Gastein arch to From Sportgastein you climb Ruperti Trail from Mallnitz towards the Watschiger Alm down to the Anger or Lafen, forks to the right up the Naßfelder arch over the the south are more challenging. In Naßfeld Pass, the connection point from Anger valley train station, Naßfelderalm and the Hinter- four hours, you hike uphill to the to the Red Route of Via Alpina. In uses a small stretch of road, which naßfeldalm to the Veitbauerhütte Arthur-von-Schmidt Haus which five daily stages from the Naßfeld, leads past the Vorder- and Hinter- (hut). The trail becomes increas- is located on the banks of the ro- you will reach Trenta in the Triglav schneeberg. Soon it turns left, and ingly steep and stony, and it is mantic Lake Dösner. The Reißeck National Park, concluding your continues in a winding trail on the an 800 m ascent to the Hagener – balcony trail starts here. First, round trip after 60 days, through north-western flank of the Stub- Hütte (2,488 m) on the Mallnitz you go over the Seeschartl to the all five national parks in the three nerkogel. Tauern, on the provincial borders isolated Lake Pfaffenberger, and countries of Slovenia, Austria, and The trail continues to the Schatt- of Salzburg – Carinthia in the Hohe then through the boulders over the Germany. bachalm and over the Mahdleiten- Tauern National Park. From the Kaponigtörl and Zwenbergtörl to alm to the Miesbichlscharte, from Hagener Hütte, you have to turn the Mooshütte. Proceed across the which you descend to Lake Unteren down to the “Tauernkreuz” (cross), Riekentörl and past the Reißeck (Text: Extract from: Käfer, F. (2007): Bockhart. (In poor weather condi- which was created in memory of an Lakes to the Reißeckhütte. Österreichischer Weitwanderweg Nr. 10 tions, is is possible to stay at the innkeeper who lost her life to a bolt Over the Roßalmscharte, you – Rupertiweg (Austrian Long-Distance Lake Bockhart cabin or the Vie- of lighting. Further on, following reach the Kohlmaierhütte (hut) Hiking Trail No. 10). Vom Böhmerwald hauseralm overnight. Otherwise, the serpentines over the “Lasch- and the roadways to St. Paul as zu den Karnischen Alpen (From the Böh- you must follow the Naßfelder arch gwand”, you reach the Jamnighütte well as the district capital of Spittal mer Forest to the Carnic Alps). Austrian Information until you reach Böckstein or take Tavern. Here you reach the forest, an der Drau. Afterwards, the Gol- Alpine Association, section long-distance

the bus.) and a few moments later, the win- deck, with its magnificent view, is hikers (Hrsg.), Vienna. Kur- und Tourismusverband Urlaubsinformation Mallni t z From the Bockhartseehütte, ter bridge, where you stay to the ascended and you walk through the ad ofgastein B H A-9822 Mallnitz 11 you climb down to Sportgastein right of the Mallnitz stream, and Staff area as well as the Gajacher All Via Alpina – stage descriptions can be

Tauernplatz 1, A-5630 Bad Hofgastein NATIONALPARK HOHE TAUERN (1,598m). directly reach the national park Alm to Techendorf. Here you reach found on the website www-via-alpina.

Tel.: +43 (0)6432 3393 Tel.: +43 (0)4784 290 centre called “BIOS”. Lake Weißen and cross the Naggler org.)

Fax: +43 (0)6432 339 32 32 Fax: +43 (0)4784 635 Alm to reach St. Lorenzen in the [email protected] [email protected] Gitsch valley, as well as Hermagor. www.mallnitz.at www.tiscover.at/badhof- in.at gastein nvere Hagener Hütte .alpe esterreichischer lpenverein www O A derer weitwan DAV-Sektion Hagen Sektion Weitwanderer www.alpenverein.at/ Tel.: +43 (0)4732 4290 32 Mobile: +43 (0)664 403 66 97 Thaliastrasse 159/3/16, A-1160 Wien [email protected] Tel./Fax: +43 (0)1 493 84 08 www.alpenverein.at/weitwanderer 33 Mobile: +43 (0)664 27 37 242 ddresses and information

National Parks: info.lto@bovec.si Tel.: +43 (0)4784 290 [email protected] www.bovec.si Fax: +43 (0)4784 635 www.grande-traversee-alpes.com Triglav National Park [email protected] Administration and Information centre Local Tourist Organisation www.mallnitz.at Via Alpina - national Secretariat Triglavska roža, SI-4260A Bled Kranjska Gora Austria and Germany Tel.: +386 (0)457 802 00 Borovška 99a, SI-4280 Kranjska Gora Tourismusbüro Obervellach Oesterreichischer Alpenverein Fax: +386 (0)457 802 01 Tel.: +386 (0)458 850 20 A-9821 Obervellach Christina Schwann [email protected] Fax: +386 (0)458 850 21 Tel.: +43 (0)4782 2510 21 Wilhelm-Greil-Str. 15, A-6010 Innsbruck www.tnp.si [email protected] [email protected] (from 1st of June: Olympiastr. 37, 6020 Innsbruck) www.kranjska-gora.si Tel.: +43 (0)512 595 47 31 Gesäuse National Park Tourismusbüro Heiligenblut/Großglockner Fax: +43 (0)512 595 47 40 Information centre Local Tourist Organisation Sotočje A-9844 Heiligenblut [email protected] Hauptstr. 35, A-8911 Admont Petra Skalarja 4, SI-5220 Tolmin Tel.: +43 (0)4824 2001 21 www.alpenverein.at Tel.: +43 (0)3613 211 60 20 Tel.: +386 (0)538 004 80 Fax: +43 (0)4824 2001 43 [email protected] Fax: +386 (0)538 004 83 [email protected] Via Alpina - national Secretariat www.nationalpark.co.at [email protected] www.heiligenblut.at Slovenia www.lto-sotocje.si GIZ Združenje za pohodništvo Kalkalpen National Park Kur- und Tourismusbüro Bad Gastein Hiking association Administration and Information centre Alpenregion Nationalpark Gesäuse Kaiser-Franz-Josef-Straße 27 Ljubljanska cesta 7, SI-4260 Bled Nationalpark Allee 1, A-4591 Molln Infobüro Admont A-5640 Bad Gastein Tel./Fax: +386 (0)457 435 48 Tel.: +43 (0)7584 3651 Hauptstraße 35 Tel.: +43 (0)6432 3393 560 [email protected] Fax: +43 (0)7584 3654 8911 Admont Fax: +43 (0)6432 3393 537 www.slovenia.info/hiking [email protected] Tel.: +43 (0)3613 211 60 10 [email protected] www.kalkalpen.at [email protected] www.tiscover.at/badgastein www.alpenregion.cc Alpine Associations: Berchtesgaden National Park Kur- und Tourismusverband Bad Hof- Administration and Information centre DMC Tourismus GmbH Pyhrn Priel gastein Sektion Weitwanderer des Doktorberg 6, D-83471 Berchtesgaden Hauptstraße 28 Tauernplatz 1, A-5630 Bad Hofgastein Oesterreichischen Alpenvereins Tel.: +49 (0)8652 96 86 0 A-4580 Windischgarsten Tel.: +43 (0)6432 3393 260 Thaliastrasse 159/3/16, A-1160 Wien Fax: +49 (0)8652 96 86 40 Tel.: +43 (0)7562 5266 Fax: +43 (0)6432 3393 232 Tel./Fax: +43 (0)1 493 84 08 [email protected] Fax: +43 (0)7562 5266 10 [email protected] Mobile: +43 (0)664 27 37 242 www.nationalpark-berchtesgaden.bayern.de [email protected] www.tiscover.at/badhofgastein [email protected] www.ppu.at www.alpenverein.at/weitwanderer Hohe Tauern National Park Carinthia Administration and Information centre “Die Wanderspezialisten” Via Alpina and Alpine convention: Oesterreichischer Alpenverein (Austrian Döllach 14, A-9843 Großkirchheim Infobüro Hinterstoder Alpine Association) Tel.: +43 (0)4825 6161 A- 4573 Hinterstoder 38 Permanent Secretariat of the Wilhelm-Greil-Str. 15, A-6010 Innsbruck www.hohetauern.at Tel.: +43 (0)7564 5263 Alpine Convention (from 1st of June: Olympiastr. 37, 6020 Innsbruck) Fax: +43 (0)7564 5263 55 Tel.: +43 (0)512 595 47 Local tourist organisations: [email protected] Main office in Innsbruck Fax: +43 (0)512 575 528 www.wanderspezialisten.at Herzog-Friedrich-Str. 15 [email protected] Tourism Bohinj A-6020 Innsbruck www.alpenverein.at Triglavska cesta 30, SI-4264 Bohinjska Bistrica Tourismusregion Berchtesgaden-Königssee Tel.: +43 (0)512 588 589 0 Tel.: +386 (0)457 475 90 Königsseer Straße 2, D-83471 Berchtesgaden Fax: +43 (0)512 588 589 20 Deutscher Alpenverein (German Alpine Fax: +386 (0)457 475 91 Tel.: +49 (0)8652 967 0 [email protected] Association) [email protected] Fax: +49 (0)8652 967 400 www.alpconv.org Von-Kahr-Str. 2-4, D-80997 München www.bohinj.si [email protected] Tel.: +49 (0)89 140 03 0 www.berchtesgadener-land.info Branch office in Bolzano Fax: +49 (0)89 140 03 98 Tourism Bled Drususallee 1 / Viale Druso 1 [email protected] Cesta Svobode 11, SI-4260 Bled Nationalpark Hohe Tauern I-39100 Bolzano www.alpenverein.de Tel.: +386 (0)457 805 00 Kärnten Tourismus Tel.: +39 0471 055 354 Fax: +386 (0)457 805 01 Handwerkstube Fax: +39 0471 055 059 Planinska zveza Slovenije (Slovenian [email protected] Döllach 1, A-Großkirchheim 9843 www.bled.si Tel.: +43 (0)4825 200 Via Alpina - international Secretariat Alpine Association) [email protected] La Grande Traversée des Alpes Dvoržakova 9, SI-1000 Ljubliana Local Tourist Organisation Bovec 14 rue de la République, B.P. 227 Tel.: +386 (0)143 45 680 Trg Golobarskih žrtev 8, SI-5230 Bovec Urlaubsinformation Mallnitz F-38109 Grenoble Cedex www.pzs.si 34 Tel.: +386 (0)538 964 44 A-9822 Mallnitz 11 Tel.: +33 (0)476 42 08 31 Fax: +386 (0)538 964 45 NATIONALPARK HOHE TAUERN Fax: +33 (0)476 42 87 08 Correct Behaviour in the Mountains

These rules were published by the „International Mountaineering and Climbing Federation“ (UIAA) and the „Verband Alpiner Vereine Österreichs“ (VAVÖ) for the protection of hikers and of nature.

1. The physical suitability and the mountain experience of all participants – young and old – must be checked before every tour. Mountain hiking often requires sure footedness and no fear of heights.

2. Each mountain tour should be carefully planned by means of tour descriptions and maps. Also information from Alpine clubs and people with local knowledge, such as mountain guides and hut guardians, can be decidedly helpful.

3. Appropriate equipment and clothing are necessary when mountain hiking: above all solid high shoes with anti-slip soles. Since the weather in the mountains often changes rapidly, protection from rain and cold is also very important.

4. For reasons of safety, before starting, the route and destination of the tour, as well as the expected time of return should be communicated to the hut guardian or hotel owner, or to friends.

5. The pace must be adapted to the weakest members of the group. Walk particularly slowly at the beginning of the tour. It is essential that you observe the other participants, in order to recognize signs of exhaustion in time.

6. Do not leave marked paths. In order to avoid falls, maximum attention is also necessary on easy land. Be careful when crossing steep grass slopes, especially when it is wet. Crossing steep snow fields or glaciers is particularly dangerous.

7. Be extremely careful to avoid dislodging stones which could fall and injure other mountain hikers. Areas with falling stones should be crossed as quickly as possible and without stopping one person at the time.

8. If the weather changes, fog appears, the path becomes too difficult or is in a bad state, you should turn back. This is nothing to be ashamed of, rather a sign of being sensible.

9. If there is an accident, stay calm. In many cases, it is possible to help yourselves. If this is not possible, try to call for help by means of mobile phone, shouting, light signalling or by waving large pieces of clothing. An injured person should normally be left in the place of the accident and must never be left alone.

10. Mountains are there for everybody. It is a duty of every mountain hiker to help to maintain them and keep them clean. Bring back your waste with you to the valley, do not harm wildlife.

International emergency call: 112

Source: UIAA/VAVÖ Sektion Weitwanderer