Winter hike in the Falkenstein Nature Park in Schwarzau im Gebirge

Your hikes in the Vienna Alps should be a thoroughly pleasant and safe experience.

Please observe the following:

Make sure the chosen route matches your fitness. Check the weather report in advance. Always set out properly equipped (sturdy footwear, winter hiking gear). Check if the huts and snack stops you want to visit on the way are open. Inform someone about your route choice and your planned return before you start. Stay on marked paths and avoid shortcuts. Do not litter and dispose of waste properly.

Warning, this winter hiking trail may not be fully cleared in snowy conditions and can have slippery spots. Use is at your own risk! Also keep in mind that in winter, markings may be invisible due to snow, so prepare well for your tour! Pay attention to the early dusk and plan your tours carefully.

Mountain rescue: 140

EU emergency number: 112

Always carry suitable maps. Wear sturdy shoes adapted to the route, bring sun and rain protection as well as water and a snack. Take your mobile phone and save the mountain rescue emergency number: 140

Parking spaces are available at the Nature Park.

From Vienna, take the A2 South Motorway to the S6 Semmering Expressway and take the Gloggnitz exit. Drive via the B27 towards Payerbach/Reichenau and through the Höllental to Schwarzau im Gebirge.

From Graz, take the S6 Semmering Expressway and take the Gloggnitz exit. Drive via the B27 towards Payerbach/Reichenau and through the Höllental to Schwarzau im Gebirge.

Travel by train to Payerbach-Reichenau station. From there, bus line 341 runs to the "Schwarzau im Gebirge Ortsmitte" stop, where the hiking starting point is located.

Alternatively, you can book an individual ride with the RUFbus Semmering-Rax, which will take you to the hiking start point.

RUFbus stops along the way:

PB6 Payerbach station

SW7 Falkenstein Nature Park

More info: www.oebb.at and www.vor.at

• Refreshments at the Café Naturpark opposite