Around the Ötscher

Child-friendly walkways pass waterfalls and canyons. Enjoy the comfort of the rustic hut and the Mariazell Railway.

In Austria’s grand canyon, you will find crystal clear waterfalls, hiker-friendly walkways, and plenty of reasons to be amazed. At the halfway point, the cosy Ötscherhias hut, with its hearty regional cuisine and a stunning view, awaits you.

From the base to the show power station

The Alpine hike starts in the Naturparkzentrum Ötscher-Basis nature park. An absolute highlight is EVN’s oldest hydroelectric power station, the Wienerbruck power station, which supplies energy to the railway Mariazellerbahn.

Griaß di, Ötscherhias!

The romantic Ötschergräben is a unique natural spectacular. For centuries, small brooks and streams have dug their way through the limestone massif, forming deep canyons, bizarre rock formations, and unique waterfalls. On the route, which was named the most beautiful hiking route of 2011, you will come across the rustic Ötscherhias hut, a popular snacking stop (open May-Oct until 17:00).

Homeward bound on the railway Mariazellerbahn

Feeling refreshed and armed with memories, continue to the end point, Erlaufklause train station. The alternative destination, Mitterbach, is 1.5 hours away. From here, you can travel directly back to the starting point in Wienerbruck, in the comfort of the historic railway Mariazellerbahn.