Why Grossarltal Is Among Austria’s Most Beautiful Hiking Destinations
Hiking in Grossarltal is a true paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and makes the valley one of the most beautiful destinations for hiking in Salzburg Austria. Thanks to its exceptional location, countless hiking trails can be explored directly from DAS EDELWEISS, leading through picturesque alpine landscapes and past traditional mountain huts. With its extensive network of well-marked trails, Grossarltal is perfect for nature lovers of all ages. The diverse flora and fauna, combined with breathtaking mountain panoramas, turn every hike into an unforgettable experience.
Particularly charming are the many traditionally managed alpine huts, where hikers can enjoy regional specialties and take a well-deserved break. An impressive 40 alpine huts can be found around our resort, which is why Grossarltal is affectionately known as the “Valley of Alpine Huts.”
At a Glance
- More than 40 serviced alpine huts and numerous hiking trails accessible directly from DAS EDELWEISS
- A wide variety of tours for families (including selected stroller-friendly routes), leisure hikers, and ambitious summit seekers
- Breathtaking mountain panoramas, idyllic alpine huts, and regional specialties along the trails
- Guided hikes and personal insider tips from hiking guide Daniel Hettegger
Hiking Tours for Families & Experienced Hikers
Daniel Hettegger, a member of the host family, is a passionate hiking guide who knows the trails of Grossarltal like no one else. From an early age, he was entrusted with leading hikes for guests, as his parents were heavily involved in the day-to-day operations of the resort. To this day, he enjoys sharing the most beautiful routes in the valley with guests, turning every excursion into a memorable experience.
For those looking to experience authentic mountain hiking in Austria, Grossarltal offers an exceptional variety of trails and alpine landscapes. From leisurely family-friendly walks to challenging multi-day tours for experienced hikers, the region caters to every level of adventure. Numerous routes are perfect for exploring nature with children, while selected trails are even stroller-friendly, making it easy to enjoy the mountains with the whole family.
Beyond the well-known paths, Daniel also knows a number of hidden gems off the beaten track, which he is always happy to share with guests. These insider tips make mountain hiking in Austria an even more rewarding experience, leading guests to secluded viewpoints, pristine alpine meadows, and untouched natural beauty.
Of course, no hike would be complete without stopping at one of the traditional alpine huts for an authentic Austrian snack. And every now and then, a small schnapps along the way is simply part of the experience.
The Most Beautiful Hikes in Grossarltal
Mountain Hiking in Austria with Local Expert Daniel Hettegger
One of the most memorable hiking experiences in Grossarltal is the sunrise hike to Schuhflicker. Depending on the season, the tour starts as early as 4:00 a.m. at the hotel, where a taxi takes guests to the Aualm, around 20 minutes away. From there, the trail leads up to the summit of Schuhflicker. Along the route lies the picturesque Schuhflicker Lake, whose crystal-clear waters perfectly reflect the surrounding alpine scenery. For Daniel, this untouched nature is what makes Grossarltal so special: “There is hardly a spring here whose water isn’t drinkable – our drinking water comes directly from nature.” Reaching the summit feels like standing close to the sky itself. Watching the first rays of sunlight illuminate the surrounding Alps is simply magical.
Another favourite is the hike to Hirschgrubenalm. A relatively gentle trail, followed by a short steeper section, winds through a beautiful forest carpeted with lush green moss. The route is especially popular among locals after a few rainy days, as lucky hikers may discover chanterelle mushrooms hidden along the way.
When asked whether he ever gets tired of hiking the same trails, Daniel's answer comes without hesitation: “No, never! Every group is different, and that’s what makes it so exciting.” Sharing his passion for the mountains and guiding guests through the valley remains one of his greatest joys.
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