Three routes, one starting point
Via ferratas on the Dachstein
Wake up in Ramsau and it is the first thing you see: the south face of the Dachstein. Some of the best-known via ferratas in the Eastern Alps run through and around it.
Three of them start from the same car park, a short drive from the Pehab. Here is how to pick yours.
Practise first: Kali, Kala and Kalo on the Sattelberg
Never been on a steel cable? Then do not start in the south face. On the Sattelberg in Ramsau there are three short practice routes: Kali (A/B), Kala (B) and Kalo (B–C).
The approaches are short and the routes are manageable. You will soon find out how height and exposure feel to you.
Anna: your way into the south face
The Anna via ferrata leads up the Mitterstein (2,097 m). It is graded D, which means difficult. Around 300 vertical metres on the cable, steep and almost continuous, with hardly any walking sections. Allow about two hours on the route.
You start at the valley station of the Dachstein glacier cable car at around 1,700 m. From there it takes about 45 minutes via the Dachstein-Südwandhütte to the start of the route.
The wall faces south. On clear days you climb in the sun.
Johann: long, steep, up to the glacier
On top of the Mitterstein you choose: descend or carry on. The Johann via ferrata starts right there and climbs through the south face to the Seethalerhütte at the edge of the glacier. Grade D/E.
Anna and Johann together make a long, serious mountain day. You need strong arms, stamina and experience. Start early and check the weather carefully.
The glacier cable car takes you back down to the valley.
Sky Walk: short and extreme
The Sky Walk via ferrata is the opposite: just 140 vertical metres, about one hour. But it is overhanging, very exposed and has almost no place to rest. Grade D/E, one of the hardest routes in the Eastern Alps.
You take the glacier cable car up and descend for about 25 minutes on a secured path to the start. The route ends right at the top station on the Hunerkogel at just under 2,700 m.
For very experienced climbers only.
When, with what, with whom
Depending on snow, the season runs roughly from mid-June to mid-October. In early summer there are often still snowfields on the approaches and descents.
A via ferrata set, helmet and gloves are essential. So is an honest look at your own ability. If you are unsure, go with a mountain guide. At reception we can put you in touch and know the current conditions.
Good to know: with the Schladming-Dachstein Card you ride the Dachstein glacier cable car free of charge once every seven days.
Afterwards: rest your arms
After the climb you want warmth. The Wärmewald in the Rooftop-Spa opens daily from 3 pm, the pool is 32 °C.
From up there you look at the wall you were hanging in that morning.
High up. Deeply relaxed.
