Simonyhütte
It is the moment that counts
Nestled picturesquely at the foot of the Dachstein, with a beautiful view, the Simonyhütte is located 2,203m above sea level, amidst the impressive mountains of the Dachstein plateau. As the morning sun appears, glowing red over the mountain tops, it's the moment that counts.
The one with the most beautiful views. Located for 135 years at 2,203m above sea level, the Simonyhütte counts as one of the most beautiful hiking destinations in the UNESCO World Heritage region of Hallstatt Dachstein Salzkammergut. The comfortable cabin of the Austrian Alpine Club, named after the famous geographer and Alpine researcher Friedrich Simony (1813 - 1896) is open all week from May to October. After many rebuilds in its long history, today the Simonyhütte has both rooms and dormitories. However, those who wish to experience the morning colours of the rising sun in high season, are advised to register in advance.
Hikers, from all over the world love the cosily furnished mountain hut at the foot of the Dachstein glacier. Not just as the destination of many mountain hikes, but more importantly as base for the ascent of the Dachstein. From here are also many more hiking opportunities such as to Adamekhütte, the High Gjaidstein, High Ochsenkogel and Schöberl. Additionally, the little ice lake, about a 20 minute walk from the cabin, is a worthy detour.
Sunrise for connoisseurs
When the night comes to an end and the first rays of the new day are about to appear, the lodge host brews the first early morning coffee and the aroma of freshly grounded beans can be smelt - then it's time to turn back over and sleep until the rich Alpine hut breakfast is ready. Or you just get out of the cosy warm sleeping bag, squeeze into your trousers, pull on your shirt, lace up your hiking boots and grab your camera. Now the time has come for the perfect start into the new hiking day. Because in front of the Simony Hut, at the foot of the Dachstein, a first class sunrise awaits you. An unforgettable experience when the warm sun rays immerse the mountain peaks of the Dachstein in the warm light of the early morning. Whoever starts so an atmospheric day, has also deserved an extensive breakfast : A rich buffet with fresh coffee, cold meat specialties, fruit spreads , cereals and delicious farmer´s bread as perfect start into the new day. A nourishing breakfast, a breathtaking view over the Dachstein plateau and thousands of impressions , this is how the new hiking day invites you on to a hiking tour, right through a unique feast for the eyes : The Dachstein hiking world in the UNESCO World Heritage region of Hallstatt Dachstein Salzkammergut .
Tips: Hiking in autumn
Autumn is here! Hooray! The most beautiful hiking season of the year! However, there are a few things you should keep in mind when hiking, especially at this time of year.
- Plan tours properly.
- Start early. Especially for high alpine hikes.
- Attention: It gets dark early!
- If you are staying overnight in a hut, register in good time by telephone.
- Do not miss the last cable car ride down the mountain when on mountain tours.
- Information on the current operating times of the cable cars in connection with a hike can be found below under "Information at a Glance".
- Check snow conditions. Because at this time of the year the first snow can already fall in the high mountains.
- We have summarised further important safety tips below.
- We wish you an unforgettable hiking autumn in the Salzkammergut.
Your editorial team
Safety Tips for Hikers
Admittedly, the landscape of the UNESCO World Heritage region of Hallstatt Dachstein Salzkammergut is the absolute pinnacle for hiking fans, mountain enthusiasts and nature lovers—unforgettable tours to incredibly beautiful mountain lodges and meadows, panorama views as far as the eye can see and cherished moments that will last a lifetime! However, you should remember that while hiking you might find yourself in high-alpine terrain. We’ve put together some resources to assist you: how to best prepare for your tour, recommended items for your backpack and steps to take in an emergency situation. Remember to always play it safe and enjoy your hiking adventure in the Salzkammergut!
Warning: Closed trails
Better to know before you go
Hiking trails in the Salzkammergut can be closed for various reasons. To help you prepare for your hike, we have set up a page with current road closures in the region. This will help you get to your destination without any detours or stress. Click here to visit the page...
Hiking & Co. - More offers
Adventure mountain "Dachstein Krippenstein" in Obertraun - Cave worlds for summiteers
Obertraun | Krippenstein: Discover the fairytale world of the Ice cave and follow in the footsteps of the cave researchers through the Mammut Cave and Koppenbrüller Cave. Feel the adrenaline pumping through your veins on the 5fingers viewing platform.
Simony Hut: So close to heaven!
Hallstatt / Obertraun: The hike to the Simony Hut below the mighty Dachstein glacier, is one of the most beautiful hikes in the Salzkammergut. Recommended is the gorgeous sunrise - just a dream!
Hike to the Wiesberghaus
Day hike on the high plateau with numerous further hiking options.
From Hallstatt through the Echerntal valley, or by cable car to 1884 m above sea level and through the karst landscape. Really fantastic! Surefootedness and mountain experience required.
Across the karst plateau
The recently established Nature trail on the Dachstein plateau is an important component of the World Heritage Hiking world. This trail travels across the karst plateau and "lures" with pristine high alpine scenery.
Hike from Hallstatt to the "Simony hut" Simonyhütte
Mountain experience and stamina are a prerequisite for the high alpine mountain tour of about 6 hours. The route leads steeply up through the Echerntal valley of Hallstatt to the Wiesberghaus and on to the Simonyhütte. Not for beginners!
Hike from the Krippenstein to Simonyhütte
The hike to the Simonyhütte from the Upper Austrian side is usually made with cable car assistance from Obertraun. The route to the hut, built in 1877, starts at the Gjaidalm and has several return options.
Available accommodation for your hiking holiday in the Salzkammergut
Hotels and accommodation providers in Hallstatt, Bad Goisern, Gosau and Obertraun offer the ideal room or apartment for your holidays, no matter what your tastes. Aside from establishments rated according to the international "star" scale, you will also find around Lake Hallstatt in Austria businesses that have been awarded two to four "edelweiss". The more flowers, the greater comforts you can expect. Whether you eventually find your cozy nest in an elegant 5-star luxury hotel, at comfortable guesthouse, a family-friendly apartment, or on a traditional farm, the choice is always entirely up to you.