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Gesäuse: Natural paradise for adventure and relaxation

The Gesäuse, a breathtaking national park in Styria, is known for its rugged rock faces, deep gorges and wildly rushing rivers. This is where untouched nature and exciting outdoor activities such as hiking, climbing and rafting come together. Whether you want to marvel at the impressive rock formations or seek relaxation in the silence of nature - the Gesäuse offers both adventure and peace for nature lovers.

Short info:

  • What is the Gesäuse? The Gesäuse is a region in Austria, more precisely a national park and a nature park. It is located in Styria and is known for its impressive landscape and its diverse flora and fauna.
  • What can you experience there? There are numerous activities and experiences for visitors to enjoy in this region. Some of the most popular activities include hiking, climbing, mountain biking, rafting, canyoning and more. There are well-marked hiking trails and climbing routes suitable for both beginners and experienced adventurers.
  • Where is the Gesäuse? The Gesäuse is located in Styria, in the heart of the Austrian Alps. It is approximately Admont easily accessible from.
  • When is it open and how much does admission cost? The Gesäuse National Park is open all year round. Entry to the national park is free. The day ticket for parking costs 6€
  • How much time should you plan for a visit? The length of a visit to Gesäuse depends on personal interests and the activity planned. Some visitors spend just one day in the national park, while others stay for several days to fully enjoy hiking, climbing and other activities. It is recommended to plan at least two to three days to explore the beauty of the region.

The Gesäuse in general

The Gesäuse National Park is a true natural jewel that has been attracting visitors from all over the world since 2002. The 120 km² area offers a fascinating mountain landscape with steep rock faces, deep gorges and wild rivers. Here you can go hiking and enjoy the beauty of nature to the fullest. The well-marked hiking trails lead you to spectacular waterfalls, picturesque viewpoints and idyllic mountain lakes. There are numerous mountain huts along the trails where you can stop for a break (see huts below). Children and older people will find beautiful themed trails and barrier-free walking paths with entertainment. Whether you are an amateur athlete or a professional, everyone will find a hike to suit their taste. For those who are adventurous, there are challenging climbing routesWhat the 6-8 day hut tour is for hikers, the Buchstein tour is for cyclists. The 158 km long bike tour can be completed in 3 days. Especially since the advent of e-bikes, the Gesäuse has enjoyed increasing popularity with a well-developed network of routes for mountain bikers. Those who need even more adrenaline can take part in an exciting rafting or canyoning tour on the Enns. visitor centers are located at willow dome and in Gstatterboden, where you can get further information. Unfortunately, these were closed during our visit, so we recommend that you make plans in advance.

What is the best way to get there and is there public transportation?

The Gesäuse is easily accessible by various means of transport. By car, you can reach the Gesäuse via the Ennstal federal road (B146). It takes about 100 minutes from Graz and Linz and 150 minutes from Vienna. If you prefer public transport, you can take the train to Admont station, which is on the edge of the Gesäuse. From there, there are bus connections to the surrounding towns.

What accommodation options are there?

There are a variety of accommodation options in Gesäuse to suit different needs and budgets. From cozy inns and guesthouses to traditional mountain huts and comfortable hotels, everything is available. We chose Admont as our starting point because we absolutely wanted to see the Admont Abbey with the world's largest monastery library wanted to visit.

Which hiking trails and routes are particularly recommended?

The Gesäuse is a true hiking paradise and offers a variety of impressive hiking trails and routes. The hike to the Hesshütte is particularly recommended, for example, from where you have a wonderful view of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The Admonter Kalbling is another highlight, which impresses with its striking rock formation. The Haindlkar waterfall trail, which leads along an impressive waterfall, is also a worthwhile route. In blog posts we report on the most beautiful photo spots in the Gesäuse and the Johnsbacher Almenrunde.

Are there guided tours or activities in Gesäuse that can be booked?

Yes, guided tours and activities are also offered in the Gesäuse. For example, you can take part in guided climbing tours where experienced guides show you the best routes and climbing spots. Guided hikes, rafting or canyoning tours are also possible. These tours are organized by local providers and offer a great opportunity to explore the Gesäuse under expert guidance and experience exciting adventures.

Are there any special nature reserves or animal observation opportunities?

The Gesäuse National Park is the region's outstanding nature reserve. Here, visitors can experience untouched nature with its diverse flora and fauna up close. There are special nature trails and observation points from which you can observe the local wildlife. The Gesäuse is home to golden eagles, chamois, marmots and numerous other animal species. Guided excursions and ranger programs are also offered to give visitors a deeper insight into the natural treasures of the Gesäuse. Apart from snails, we didn't discover much on our own.

What is the climate like and when is the best time to travel?

The climate in the Gesäuse is characterized by continental influences with warm summers and cold winters. The best time to visit the Gesäuse is in the summer months from June to September, when temperatures are pleasantly mild and nature is in full bloom. This is the time to make the most of the hiking trails and outdoor activities. In spring and autumn it is a little cooler, but still attractive to experience the autumnal colors of the forests or the awakening of nature in spring. In winter, the Gesäuse offers opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, touring and snowshoeing, with the best time being from December to March when there is sufficient snow.

What equipment or clothing should you bring for a stay?

When staying in Gesäuse, it is advisable to bring the right equipment and clothing. Good hiking boots with non-slip soles are essential, as many of the paths in Gesäuse are rocky and uneven. A weatherproof jacket and trousers are recommended, as the weather in the mountains can change quickly. It is also advisable to wear layers, as the climate can change depending on the altitude. A hat, sun protection, plenty of water and snacks should also not be forgotten. We would like to thank the Gesäuse National Park for providing photos!

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