The Wilder Kaiser – our big neighbour
From the Brixental you can see it on the horizon in many places: the Wilder Kaiser, a rugged limestone range that looks completely different from the gentle grass mountains around Brixen. A trip there is like a change of scenery – and in about half an hour by car you are in the Kaiser villages of Söll, Scheffau, Ellmau or Going.
For families: the Hintersteiner See loop
The Hintersteiner See near Scheffau lies picturesquely at the foot of the Kaiser. The circular path is about 5 kilometres long, has only about 200 metres of ascent and takes around 1.5 hours – perfect with children. There are several places to eat right by the lake and along the path.
For nature lovers: Schleierwasserfall
From Scheffau an easy hike (about 5.5 km there and back) leads to the Schleierwasserfall, a popular climbing area with around 200 routes, and on towards the Stiegenbachfall.
For the sporty: Gruttenhütte & Ellmauer Tor
The tour up to the Gruttenhütte and the Ellmauer Tor, a natural rock gate in the heart of the Kaiser, is a classic: about 13 kilometres, 5 to 6 hours, demanding and with short rocky sections. A popular starting point is the Wochenbrunner Alm above Ellmau. Sure-footedness and good footwear are essential.
A special experience: sunrise on the Kaiser
From May to October the Wilder Kaiser tourist board offers guided sunrise hikes on Fridays from the Wochenbrunner Alm. Registration with the tourist board, usually by Thursday 5 pm.
For long-distance hikers: Kaiserkrone
If you have several days, you can walk around the Wilder Kaiser on the Kaiserkrone: about 58 kilometres and 4,000 metres of ascent in 3 to 5 days, staying overnight in huts. Best time: June to October.
Combination tip
From the summit of the Hohe Salve you have one of the most beautiful views of the Wilder Kaiser – ideal for admiring the route of your Kaiser excursion beforehand.
Good to know
- On fine summer days the car parks at the starting points fill up early – starting early pays off.
- For alpine tours: check the weather forecast and allow for afternoon thunderstorms.
- Check hut opening times in advance.
