Ramsau am Dachstein offers direct access to one of the most diverse climbing areas in the Alps. With 22 different via ferrata routes covering all levels of difficulty, experienced climbers and families with children alike are sure to enjoy a special climbing experience. From the Berggasthof Hunerkogel, you can reach the start points of the south face via ferratas and the starting points of the Schladming-Dachstein long-distance hiking trails without having to drive.
In Ramsau, you have numerous via ferratas to choose from. The routes are rated according to the Austrian standard and offer various profiles. The starting points of the via ferratas are accessible from Berggasthof Hunerkogel on foot or via the Dachstein cable car.
The Anna via ferrata is a consistently athletic route rated C/D, which stretches across the southeastern rock flanks of the Mitterstein. The tour is very demanding due to its length, steepness, and exposure. Solid physical conditioning, as well as absolute sure-footedness and a good head for heights, are required. The climb is frequently undertaken as the first stage in combination with the Johann via ferrata.
The Johann via ferrata is considered one of the most demanding classics in the Alps, conquering the massive Dachstein South Face. The route is characterized by extremely steep, partly overhanging passages with a difficulty rating of E, requiring high muscular endurance and alpine experience. There are two options for the approach: either directly from the valley station via the Südwandhütte to the marked starting point, or as an athletic combination via the Anna via ferrata.
This route connects several via ferrata sections into a continuous high-alpine tour. Over a distance of 4.8 kilometers and more than 1,200 meters of elevation gain, exposed passages alternate with longer walking sections on rock. The difficulty level is in the D/E range and requires physical stamina, experience in via ferrata climbing, and confident movement in alpine terrain.
This via ferrata runs directly below the mountain station of the Dachstein cable car. Short, very steep passages and consistently exposed terrain characterize this climb. The difficulty is rated D/E and requires experience in via ferrata climbing as well as confident movement at great heights.
These classic ascent routes lead across the glacier towards the summit and are technically considered relatively easy (A/B). However, the approach takes place over alpine glacial terrain and requires appropriate equipment as well as experience in dealing with ice and crevasses.
The Irg via ferrata leads along a long, alpine line to the Großer Koppenkarstein. The route runs predominantly on steep rock, offers expansive vertical views, and demands concentration and endurance over long sections. The difficulty level is in the C/D range.
The Amon via ferrata is a short but crisp route on the Hohe Wand near the Dachstein mountain station. It is characterized by its extremely steep and compact rock line, which leads directly into the upper difficulty level of C/D. Due to its exposed location and smooth passages, the climb requires precise footwork as well as significant arm strength. Since it is often in the shade, the rock remains cool for longer, which should be taken into account when undertaking the climb.
As a supplement to the alpine rock, the forest high ropes course at Rittisberg offers circuits at various heights up to 15 meters. Located just a few kilometers from the Berggasthof, it is particularly suitable for training sure-footedness and height confidence in a secured forest area.
Experience hikes in Ramsau am Dachstein that begin right at the doorstep of Berggasthof Hunerkogel: from relaxed alpine paths on the sunny plateau to demanding routes through the rugged rock faces of the Dachstein massif:
The "Torwanderung" is an absolute classic and starts directly at Berggasthof Hunerkogel. The route leads you to the striking "Tor" (Gate), a spectacular natural rock opening that acts like a stone portal, forming the transition between the wild, raw south side of the Dachstein and the gentle, vast alpine meadows.
The 5-Hütten-Weg (5-Huts-Trail) runs along the sunny side of the Ramsau plateau and is ideal as an extensive day tour. Spanning approximately 15 kilometers, the route connects several traditional alpine huts at the foot of the Dachstein South Faces. The paths are technically easy, well-marked, and offer a steady walking pace. Numerous stop-off points along the route allow for flexible breaks and make the tour easy to plan.
The Bachlalm is the perfect destination for a relaxed family excursion in Ramsau am Dachstein, where marmots take center stage. Via a wide, pram-friendly access road, you reach the territory of the "Manggei" (local dialect for marmots). With a little luck, these fluffy alpine inhabitants can often be observed right by the side of the path.
This forest-rich loop leads around the Rittisberg and is often suitable for strollers due to its wide paths. Along the route, you will find interactive points of the KALI Children's Hiking Trail, offering playful variety. Managed huts such as the Halseralm, Sonnenalm, or Ochsenalm are available for breaks. The tour runs mostly in the shade, making it well-suited for warm summer days.
From Berggasthof Hunerkogel, the route leads via the Edelgries directly into high-alpine terrain. The ascent is characterized by steep scree fields and exposed passages, which is why this tour is recommended exclusively for experienced alpinists. Physical conditioning and stamina are extremely challenged here. Those aiming for the Schleichspitz will be rewarded with an impressive view of the Enns Valley and the Tauern mountains.
The King’s Stage in Ramsau am Dachstein is an impressive high-mountain tour for endurance hikers. Taking approximately 7 hours, this path leads you through the most spectacular landscapes of the Dachstein massif. You will experience the fascinating contrast between the eternal ice of the glacier and the rugged limestone faces of the South Walls. The tour requires good basic fitness and sure-footedness but rewards you with incomparable views and a deep immersion into high-alpine nature.
Gentle hiking trails lead across the sun-drenched Ramsau alpine plateau, inviting you to enjoy the silence of the mountains to the fullest. On technically easy paths that are pram-friendly throughout, you can stroll from one rustic hut to the next while the mighty Dachstein South Faces appear close enough to touch.
From Berggasthof Hunerkogel, you first hike up a zigzag path to the legendary rock towers of the "Steinerne Jungfrauen" (Stone Virgins). The route requires a good head for heights and sure-footedness, offering spectacular views across the Ramsau plateau, into the vast Enns Valley and the Schladming Tauern, as well as westward toward the Hochkönig. Via the Brandriedel and the Austriahütte, you eventually hike leisurely back to your starting point.
The hike across the Dachstein Glacier leads you through a fascinating high-alpine world of snow and rugged peaks. Once a week, you have the opportunity to join a guided tour. A state-certified mountain guide will lead you safely across the plateau, explain the unique features of the glacier, and show you hidden crevasses and formations.
The network of trails allows for multi-day hikes in the Dachstein region without having to descend to the valley every day:
In eight stages, hikers circumnavigate the entire Dachstein massif on this route. The trail leads through three Austrian federal states and showcases the landscape's diversity between rugged limestone faces, dense forests, and gentle alpine meadows. A special highlight for your planning: Berggasthof Hunerkogel is located directly on the route. Use Berggasthof Hunerkogel at the end of the 2nd stage as a comfortable base for your overnight stay on the mountain. The circumnavigation requires solid basic fitness and good planning, but in return, it offers a comprehensive insight into the geological and ecological features of this UNESCO World Heritage region at the highest mountain in Styria.
The "Dachstein Sonnen-Runde" (Dachstein Sun-Loop) is a compact hut-to-hut tour that is ideal for a long weekend over two or three days. It focuses on the sunny south side of the mountains and combines selected stages with spectacular views. Since the paths partly lead through high-alpine terrain, alpine experience is necessary. Tip: Spend the night of your second stage at Berggasthof Hunerkogel at 1,700 meters and enjoy the sunset at the foot of the South Walls to the fullest.
The impressive long-distance hike "From Glacier to Wine" connects the eternal ice of the Dachstein with the gentle vineyards of Southern Styria on its southern route. Your hike through Styria begins directly at Berggasthof Hunerkogel in high-alpine terrain. Over several daily stages, you will experience an incomparable change in landscape: from rugged rock formations and dense forests to sunny vineyards. After an eventful week, the tour ends in the picturesque wine regions, where warm hospitality and fine wines invite you for a well-deserved stop-off.
The high-alpine environment of the Dachstein requires sound self-assessment and appropriate experience. If you feel uncertain about navigation, weather conditions, or difficult passages, you can rely on the support of state-certified hiking guides and mountain guides. The experts from local alpine schools accompany you both on the via ferratas and during challenging multi-day tours. This way, you can enjoy the mountains with maximum safety while also receiving valuable tips on technique and equipment.
Located right at the foot of the Dachstein, the Berggasthof Hunerkogel is the perfect accommodation for glacier courses, via ferrata training, and mountaineering and rope courses in Schladming Dachstein. The hosts at the Berggasthof Hunerkogel are also the ideal point of contact if you wish to book a private mountain guide. After an active day on the via ferrata or a multi-day tour, the Berggasthof Hunerkogel offers the perfect opportunity to unwind. The sauna and infrared cabins boost blood circulation in the muscles and aid recovery. On the Berggasthof Hunerkogel’s sunbathing lawn, you can round off your mountain tour with a cool drink whilst enjoying the view of the Dachstein South Face.
Start your next climbing project or multi-day tour directly from Berggasthof Hunerkogel. Send a non-binding inquiry for your stay now or book conveniently online.
