The 15th stage of the Viennese Alps (WAB) route sees another change in the landscape. We leave the rock structures of the Schneeberg region and head into the heavily forested ridges of the Gutenstein Alps.
Description
This route heads from the Edelweißhütte vantage point towards the Öhler via the Mamauwiese and Schober, enjoying wonderful views of the Schneeberg as we look back. The lowest point of the Mamauwiese features a fascinating primeval bog. The Schober is conspicuous due to its pyramid profile. This short stage has plenty of spots for great photographs.
Starting point of the tour
Edelweißhütte
Destination point of the tour
Öhler Schutzhaus
Route description WAB - Stage 15: Edelweißhütte - Öhler Schutzhaus
Starting from Edelweißhütte, we hit the gravel track with our backs to the Schneeberg, head past Almreserlhaus and along the Dürre Leiten summit to Berggasthof Mamauwiese. At this point we briefly come across the Mariazellerweg, which crosses the Mamauwiese on its way west on a documented Roman road. We carry on east along the marked path towards the Öhler Schutzhaus. A small ridge is crossed via a heathland trail before we are greeted with a fantastic view of the Schober and Öhler. We hike slightly downhill over gentle meadows onto a gravel track and then turn right. After heading past the Schoberhof we turn to a refreshing spring just left of the road and follow the marked hiking path uphill beneath the rock faces of the Öhler to the Öhlerschutzhaus. This is a splendid place to end the day and to enjoy specialities such as “Öhlerknödel” (a meat dumpling with cabbage) or the ever-popular bratwurst soup.
Directions
The Edelweißhütte is in alpine surroundings and can only be reached directly on foot.
If you are coming from Vienna or Graz, take the A2 as far as the exit at Wiener Neustadt West. Take the B26 up to Puchberg am Schneeberg. A road leads to the end of the valley and the chairlift at Losenheim.
Parking
Car parking is available in Losenheim at the Schneeberg chairlift.
The Edelweißhütte is in alpine surroundings and cannot be reached directly with public transport. Take the train to Puchberg railway station. Carry on from there with the 1720 regional bus to Losenheim. Either ascend via the route to the cabin marked out in yellow, alternatively the Schneeberg chairlift takes you very close to the Edelweißhütte.
More information at www.oebb.at
Author's tip
It is possible to stay overnight in the valley at Hotel Restaurant Forellenhof. Bookable offers can be found here.
