Dream tour with marvellous mountain lakes

Palfnerscharte - mountain lakes, panoramic views and alpine variety

This special tour in the Gastein Valley is ideal for experienced hikers and combines spectacular views with enchanting mountain lakes. What makes it special: Most of the metres in altitude are covered downhill - this makes the route pleasant and allows you to enjoy the alpine scenery in a relaxed manner.

From the mountain station of the Graukogel lift at 1,950 m, the Alpine Club trail first leads towards the Hüttenkogel and on to the Palfnersee lake at 2,074 m. A moderate ascent of around 150 metres in altitude takes hikers to the Palfnerscharte - the highest point of the tour at 2,321 m. At the top, a breathtaking panorama opens up over the Gastein Valley.

The descent to Reedsee - one of the most beautiful mountain lakes in the region - follows. The deep blue water amidst steep rock faces makes this section a real highlight. The route continues along a long, sometimes steep path through the mountain forest down into the Kötschachtal valley.

The end point is out of the valley at the Grüner Baum. There are refreshment stops along the route at the Graukogel mountain station, the rustic Himmelwandhütte in Kötschachtal and the traditional Gasthof Reiterbauer.

Tour overview:

• Starting point: Bad Gastein
• Difficulty:difficult
• Duration: approx. 6:30 hours
• Length: 12 km
• Elevation gain: 400 m (mainly downhill)
• Highest point: 2.320 m
• Lowest point: 1,058 m

An impressive tour for all those who appreciate alpine scenery, tranquil mountain lakes and challenging trails - a real experience for mountain lovers.