Great and Small Barmstein, the landmarks of Hallein

Great and Small Barmstein, the landmarks of Hallein

Crossing of the rock towers over Hallein with fantastic views of the Salzach Valley

From the bus stop to the Braugasthof Hofbräu Kaltenhausen. The hiking trail begins behind it. Always follow the signs to the Barmsteins. It goes steeply uphill immediately in the refreshing forest; it can be very muddy after rain.

Great Barmstein (851m)

After about 250m elevation gain, the path to the Great Barmstein branches off to the left. From here surefootedness and a head for heights are required. Right at the start there is a rope-secured section (I). Then you find yourself on the ridge, which drops steeply to the left. A wonderful view of the Salzach Valley opens up. The ridge follows a steep root path where hands sometimes need to be used, taking about 20 minutes to the summit. It’s worth continuing to the end of the ridge, where you are rewarded with a fantastic view of the town of Hallein and the Small Barmstein! Then return by the same route to the Great Barmstein junction, from where the path continues toward the Small Barmstein.

Small Barmstein (841m)

Now the path goes through the forest past the Great Barmstein on the right toward the Small Barmstein. The well-secured path leads in about 15 minutes to the Small Barmstein. Surefootedness and a head for heights are also required here. The path is somewhat easier than the one to the Great Barmstein. At the summit there is no cross but a maypole! At the top you enjoy views of the Salzach Valley, the Tennengebirge, the Osterhorn Group, Watzmann, Göll, and the Untersberg. The return route is the same as the ascent to the Small Barmstein junction. Afterwards, follow the signs to the Thürndl ruin and descend easily on forest paths into Hallein’s old town.