The magic of the Alpe-Adria Trail: An adventure between natural pools, waterfalls and mountain lakes

The mountains are calling! And for everyone who loves the sound of the water, the chirping of the birds and the majestic beauty of the Alps, the Alpe-Adria Trail is an absolute must. This hiking trail not only offers breathtaking landscapes, but also unique experiences that you won't soon forget.

An idyllic start in Mallnitz

Mallnitz, a picturesque village, serves as a starting point for many hikes. With its rustic wooden houses and flowering geraniums on the windows, it offers a picture of peace and idyll. But the real magic only begins when you take the first step onto the Alpe-Adria Trail.

Stappitzer See: A jewel in the middle of the mountains

The first highlight of the hike is Lake Stappitz. Surrounded by imposing mountains, this lake offers a spectacle for bird lovers. Migratory birds gather here to wait for the perfect weather and cross the Hohe Tauern. A small house at the end of the lake also provides information about the different bird species that can be observed here.

Adventurous gorges and waterfalls

The journey continues along the railway tracks to the Rabischschlucht. A wooden arch marks the entrance to this wild paradise. But the real highlight follows shortly afterwards: the Groppenstein Gorge. Here meter-high waterfalls plunge into turquoise-blue pools, surrounded by orange-red rock walls that glow in the sunlight.

Obervellach: A witness to history

After crossing the gorges you finally reach Obervellach. The magnificent facades of the houses bear witness to a period of prosperity that the village experienced in the 16th and 17th centuries. A visit to the Oberstbergmeisteramt, the former administrative center of gold mining in the Hohe Tauern, offers an insight into the rich history of the region.

Conclusion

The Alpe-Adria-Trail is more than just a hiking trail. It is an adventure, a journey through time and an immersion in the untouched nature of the Alps. Every step along the way offers new discoveries and unforgettable experiences. For anyone who loves hiking and appreciates the beauty of the mountains, this trail is an absolute must.