Short Information:
- What is Gesäuse? Gesäuse is a region in Austria, specifically a national park and nature park. It is located in Styria and is known for its impressive landscape and diverse flora and fauna.
- What can you experience there? In this region, there are numerous activities and experiences that visitors can enjoy. 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 Gesäuse located? Gesäuse is located in Styria, in the heart of the Austrian Alps. It is easily accessible from Admont.
- When is it open and how much does admission cost? The Gesäuse National Park is open year-round. Admission to the national park is free. The parking fee for a day ticket is 6€.
- How much time should you plan for a visit? The duration of a visit to Gesäuse depends on personal interests and planned activities. Some visitors spend only a 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.
About Gesäuse
Gesäuse National Park is a true natural gem that has been attracting visitors from around the world since 2002. The 120 km² area offers a fascinating mountain landscape with steep cliffs, deep gorges, and wild rivers. Here, you can go hiking and fully enjoy the beauty of nature. The well-marked hiking trails lead you to spectacular waterfalls, picturesque viewpoints, and idyllic mountain lakes. There are numerous mountain huts along the trails for refreshments (see huts below).
Children and older individuals are offered beautiful themed paths and barrier-free walking paths for entertainment. Whether you are a recreational athlete or a professional, everyone can find a hike to their liking. For adventurous individuals, there are challenging climbing routes.
What the hut circuit is for hikers, the Buchstein round is for cyclists. The 158 km bike tour can be completed in 3 days. Especially since the rise of e-bikes, Gesäuse has been increasingly popular with a well-developed network of trails for mountain bikers.
For those seeking more adrenaline, they can participate in an exciting rafting or canyoning tour on the Enns River.
Visitor centers are located at Weidendom and Gstatterboden, where you can obtain further information. Unfortunately, these centers were closed during our visit, so we recommend making plans in advance.
How to get to Gesäuse and are there public transportation options?
Gesäuse is easily accessible by various means of transportation. By car, you can reach Gesäuse via the Ennstal-Bundesstraße (B146) road. It takes about 100 minutes from Graz and Linz, and 150 minutes from Vienna. If you prefer public transportation, you can take the train to Admont station, which is located on the edge of Gesä
use. From there, bus connections are available to the surrounding villages.
What accommodation options are available in Gesäuse?
Gesäuse offers a variety of accommodation options that cater to different needs and budgets. From cozy inns and guesthouses to traditional mountain huts and comfortable hotels, everything is available.
We chose Admont as our base because we wanted to visit the Admont Abbey with the world’s largest monastery library.
Which hiking trails and routes are particularly recommended in Gesäuse?
Gesäuse is a true hiking paradise and offers a variety of impressive hiking trails and routes. One particularly recommended hike is the one to Hesshütte, from where you can enjoy a magnificent view of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Admonter Kalbling is another highlight, impressing with its distinctive rock formation. The Haindlkar Waterfall Trail, which leads along an impressive waterfall, is also a worthwhile route.
In our blog posts, we will provide you with information about the most beautiful photo spots in Gesäuse and the Johnsbacher Almenrunde.
Are there guided tours or activities that can be booked in Gesäuse?
Yes, guided tours and activities are also offered in Gesäuse. For example, you can participate in guided climbing tours where experienced guides show you the best routes and climbing spots. Guided hikes, rafting tours, and canyoning tours are also possible. These tours are organized by local providers and offer a great opportunity to explore Gesäuse under expert guidance and experience exciting adventures.
Are there special nature reserves or opportunities for wildlife observation in Gesäuse?
Gesäuse National Park is the outstanding nature reserve of the region. Here, visitors can experience the 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. Gesäuse is home to species such as golden eagles, chamois, marmots, and numerous other animals. Guided excursions and ranger programs are also offered to provide visitors with a deeper insight into the natural treasures of Gesäuse.
On our own, we didn’t discover much except for snails.
What is the climate in Gesäuse and when is the best time to visit?
The climate in Gesäuse is characterized by continental influences, with warm summers and cold winters. The best time to visit Gesäuse is during the summer months from June to September, when temperatures are pleasantly mild and nature is in full bloom. During this time, you can make the most of the hiking trails and outdoor activities. In spring and autumn, it is slightly cooler but still charming to experience the autumn colors or the awakening of nature in spring. In winter, Gesäuse offers opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, ski 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 in Gesäuse?
For a stay in Gesäuse, it is advisable to bring the right equipment and clothing. Good hiking shoes with slip-resistant soles are essential as many paths in Gesäuse are rocky and uneven. A weatherproof jacket and pants are recommended as the weather in the mountains can change quickly. It is also advisable to dress in layers as the climate can vary depending on the altitude. A hat, sunscreen, sufficient water, and snacks should also not be forgotten.
We thank Gesäuse National Park for providing the photos!