Gadauner Gorge – the most beautiful place in Austria 2024
The fastest route to this destination
Gadauner Gorge – the most beautiful place in Austria 2024
The circular hiking route in Bad Hofgastein leads along the idyllic high path and through the impressive Gadauner Gorge, offering a perfect combination of natural enjoyment and adventure. The route passes through picturesque forests, along bubbling mountain streams, and offers spectacular views of the Gastein Valley. Especially the Gadauner Gorge fascinates with its imposing rock formations and the wild beauty of nature. The circular route is easily accessible, well signposted, and ideal for families, nature lovers, and hiking beginners. A highlight is the mix of tranquility and the unique scenic impressions that make this route unforgettable.
The circular hiking route in Bad Hofgastein combines the Gastein high path and the spectacular Gadauner Gorge, which was awarded as one of the most beautiful places in Austria in 2024 by the ORF “9 Places – 9 Treasures”. This hiking route offers a varied and unforgettable nature experience for everyone who wants to explore the impressive landscape of the Gastein Valley.
The Gastein high path is a barrier-free accessible section characterized by well-developed paths and gentle inclines. It is perfect for families with children, seniors, and people looking to enjoy a relaxing walk in a wonderful setting. Here, dreamlike views open up over the valley and the surrounding mountains.
The entire circuit is well signposted and offers numerous resting spots to enjoy the peace and the views of the untouched nature. This hike is a perfect mix of accessibility, adventure, and scenic diversity and will delight every nature lover.
moderate
4h 10min
12.18 km
Family-friendly
Stroller-friendly
A to B
Sankt Johann
Seasons
Directions
At the Bad Hofgastein Hohe Tauern/Hanusch bus stop, get off the bus. Then walk along the cemetery and turn right onto the high path. Follow this path to the Annencafé and simply continue along the paved path, following the signs. The panoramic view here is already impressive. You will come across a stream which should be crossed carefully. Afterwards, continue downhill along a paved path. Don't forget to enjoy the view! You then reach the high path and follow the signs to the Gadauner Gorge. From here, it is a leisurely walk back to the bus stop.
Information & contact
The Gastein high path was built in 1934 and runs at a constant altitude of 1,000 meters from Bad Hofgastein to Bad Gastein. The bridge that led guests over the Gadauner Gorge was destroyed several times during storms; therefore, about two decades later, an almost 50-meter-long tunnel was carved out of the rock at this point. The so-called "Katharina Tunnel" enables guests a safe crossing of the gorge, with spectacular and thrilling views before and behind the waterfall. In 1978, the gorge was listed as a registered natural monument in the state of Salzburg. Attentive visitors will notice the geological conditions as well as the special flora immediately. Stones appear to "bloom" and show various shades, revealing the weathering of the pyrite-bearing rock. The panoramic view rounds off the experience and makes the Gadauner Gorge a worthwhile destination.
Source: www.gastein.com
Zsófia Gábor-Flaskay
flaskay.zsofia@gmail.com
Photo credit: Zsófia Gábor-Flaskay
By public transport
By train & bus to the Bad Hofgastein Hohe Tauern/Hanusch bus stop 🚏
Coming from Salzburg, you reach the Bad Hofgastein Hohe Tauern/Hanusch bus stop as follows: first take the IC train to Bad Hofgastein station, then change at Bad Hofgastein station to bus 558 to the Bad Hofgastein Hohe Tauern/Hanusch bus stop.
Timetable information and downloads:
Online at www.salzburg-verkehr.at or on your smartphone via the free Salzburg Verkehr app for Android and iOS.
Safety information
The Gastein high path and the Gadauner Gorge are accessible by wheelchair and stroller. The ascent to the Gastein high path and also the descent (approx. 230 m) are somewhat steeper. These 230 meters of elevation can be bypassed by bus line 557 to the Höhenweg stop. In winter the gorge is closed for safety reasons, the high path is walkable from the Gadaunern district (Bad Hofgastein) to the Kötschach valley (Bad Gastein).Route profile
All content has been researched by the editorial team to the best of their knowledge. However, the editorial team of Salzburger Verkehrsverbund GmbH cannot guarantee the completeness, accuracy, or timeliness of the information provided. We kindly ask you to verify the details when planning your trip, as opening hours, admission prices, or other information may change. Any liability claims against the editorial team or Salzburger Verkehrsverbund GmbH relating to material or non-material damages arising from the use of the information provided, or from the use of incorrect or incomplete information, are generally excluded.
