A Winter Wonderland in Ramsau am Dachstein and Schladming
The Austrian Alps offer a breathtaking winter escape, and the regions of Ramsau am Dachstein and Schladming provide a diverse range of activities for every winter enthusiast. Ramsau am Dachstein, nestled at an altitude of 1,100 meters, boasts stunning views of the Dachstein Massif, with peaks soaring up to 3,000 meters. The area is a paradise for cross-country skiers, with 220 kilometers of trails, and winter hikers, with 300 kilometers of prepared paths. The well-maintained trails offer effortless walking and stunning panoramic views, especially near the village center. As the sun sets, casting an apricot glow over the mountains, the Waldschenke Ramsau, a traditional inn with a rustic ambiance and hearty food, welcomes visitors. The wooden interior, adorned with deer-patterned green fabric, sets a cozy atmosphere, further enhanced by the lively folk music played by local musicians.
Beyond the prepared trails, a snowshoe adventure awaits with Herbert Raffalt, a renowned local mountain guide and nature photographer. Venturing into pristine, untracked snow above Ramsau am Dachstein, Herbert shares his expertise, advising participants to let the snowshoes do the work and avoid the common mistake of lifting their feet too high. The rewarding trek reveals breathtaking views of the Dachstein Massif’s steep walls, a sight exclusive to those who venture off the beaten path. Snowshoeing, as Herbert explains, requires no special technique, allowing anyone to enjoy the tranquility and beauty of the winter landscape at their own pace. After the invigorating hike, the Alpengasthof Glösalm, a family-run inn, offers a comforting respite. Their specialty, Knödel, a type of dumpling, proves to be a culinary delight, showcasing the inn’s decade-long experience in perfecting this regional dish. A sweet treat of Topfenstrudel, a type of cheesecake, completes the satisfying meal.
Further enriching the winter experience is a leisurely horse-drawn sleigh ride around Kulmberg mountain. The horses effortlessly navigate the snowy terrain, switching from runners to wheels as they cross roads. The soft afternoon light paints the alpine landscape with a tranquil beauty, making the sleigh ride a truly memorable experience. For those seeking a more active adventure, fat biking offers an exciting way to explore the region. These electric bikes with sturdy tires effortlessly conquer steep slopes, allowing riders to enjoy the scenic beauty of the route to Rösteralm. At the Rösteralm inn, the stunning alpine views from the terrace complement the delicious wild game burgers and braised lamb shank. The innkeeper further enhances the experience by playing traditional Austrian music, creating a truly authentic atmosphere.
From the tranquil charm of Ramsau am Dachstein, the journey continues to the vibrant valley town of Schladming, renowned for its skiing opportunities. A gentler winter experience awaits in the Untertalbach gorge, where a snow-covered and illuminated path winds alongside the stream. The frozen waterfalls and ice formations, illuminated by colorful lights, create a magical spectacle. The short hike leads to the charming alpine village of Untertal, offering a peaceful contrast to the bustling ski slopes.
Back in the mountains, the Planai cable car station offers easy access to breathtaking views of the Dachstein Massif. A beginner-friendly winter hiking trail, the Hopsi-Winterwanderweg, provides stunning panoramic vistas, especially from the Nordpol playground. The invigorating hike in the glistening snow can be extended down to the cable car’s middle station for those seeking a longer adventure. Returning to snowshoeing, another excursion with Herbert Raffalt begins at the Hochwurzen cable car summit station. Descending from the bustling ski and tobogganing area into a quiet, snowy path leads to a tranquil realm of snow and forest. Ascending beyond the tree line, sweeping views of the snow-capped mountains unfold. The summit of Rossfeld, at 1,919 meters, offers a breathtaking panorama of countless alpine peaks, a truly unforgettable moment.
While Schladming is primarily known for skiing, the Untertal valley provides a haven for cross-country skiing and winter hiking. The 13.5-kilometer Kristallloipe cross-country ski trail, starting near the Hinkerbrücke bus stop, winds through a magical winter landscape. The valley, surrounded by snow-covered mountains and trees, and accompanied by the gentle murmur of a stream, creates a fairytale setting. The mostly flat terrain makes it ideal for leisurely skiing, culminating at the Granglalm inn before returning to the starting point. The Waldhäuslalm inn along the way offers a welcoming atmosphere with its rustic wooden tables and traditional décor. The inn, run by two sisters, prides itself on its homemade dishes using locally sourced ingredients. From hearty soups to flavorful meat dishes and a regional fish stew, every meal is a testament to their culinary passion.
The Dachstein region caters to diverse interests, offering everything from challenging hikes to leisurely strolls, thrilling fat biking adventures, and traditional Austrian hospitality. Whether seeking adrenaline-pumping activities or peaceful moments immersed in nature, Ramsau am Dachstein and Schladming provide an unforgettable winter experience. The region also boasts establishments like the Langlaufschule fit & fun for cross-country skiing lessons and biathlon experiences, the Hochwurzenhütte for a post-activity meal, cozy accommodations like Pension Zirbenhof and Hotel Garni & Landhaus Trenkenbach, and the Lodenwalker shop for locally produced wool products. The Dachstein region offers a harmonious blend of activity and relaxation, creating lasting memories for every visitor.
