Saualpe: Hut route - circular hike

At the Zechhütte (start and end of the hut route), head southwest over forest and meadow paths to the unattended mountain hut Alpenrose. Then continue to the Reisberger Hut (trail no. 5b). After that, head northwest to the Pöllinger Hut with a walking time of about one hour.
At the Pöllinger Hut, go uphill across the pasture, following the trail markers/signposts to the Wolfsberger Hut (trail no. 7, 5c, ÖAV 338). From the Wolfsberger Hut, continue over the Große Saualpe to the Ladinger Spitz, the highest point of the circular hike (trail no. 308). From here, descend past the Meeraugen (mountain lakes) to the Ladinger Hut, the easternmost point of the hiking tour (trail no. 5a). Continue west, past the "Ruprechtsfelsen" to the Offner Hut (trail no. 1d). The last section of this circular hike leads the hiker back to the starting point.

Safety Instructions - 10 Recommendations of the ÖAV

As a nature sport, mountain hiking offers great opportunities for health, community, and experience. The following recommendations from alpine clubs aim to make mountain hikes as safe and enjoyable as possible.

1. Healthy into the mountains

Mountain hiking is an endurance sport. The positive stress on heart and circulation requires health and a realistic self-assessment. Avoid time pressure and choose a pace so that no one in the group is out of breath.

2. Careful planning

Hiking maps, guidebooks, the internet, and experts provide information about length, elevation difference, difficulty, and current conditions. Always tailor the route to the group! Pay special attention to the weather forecast, as rain, wind, and cold increase the risk of accidents.

3. Complete equipment

Adjust your equipment to your undertaking and pay attention to a low backpack weight. Rain, cold, and sun protection always belong in the backpack, as well as a first aid kit and mobile phone (European emergency number 112). Map or GPS support orientation.

4. Suitable footwear

Good hiking boots protect and relieve the foot and improve surefootedness! When choosing, pay attention to perfect fit, slip-resistant sole, waterproofing, and light weight.

5. Surefootedness is key

Falls due to slipping or tripping are the most common cause of accidents! Note that too high a pace or fatigue greatly impair your surefootedness and concentration. Beware of falling rocks: careful walking helps avoid dislodging stones.

6. Stay on marked trails

In terrain without trails, the risk of losing orientation, falling, and rockfall increases. Avoid shortcuts and return to the last known point if you lose the path. Often underestimated and very dangerous: steep old snowfields!

7. Regular breaks

Timely rests promote recovery, enjoyment of the landscape, and sociability. Eating and drinking are necessary to maintain performance and concentration. Isotonic drinks are ideal thirst quenchers. Muesli bars, dried fruit, and cookies satisfy hunger on the way.

8. Responsibility for children

Note that variety and playful discovery are paramount for children! In sections with risk of falling, an adult can only attend one child. Very exposed routes requiring prolonged concentration are not suitable for children.

9. Small groups

Small groups ensure flexibility and allow mutual help. Inform trusted persons about destination, route, and return. Stay together in the group. Beware solo hikers: even small incidents can lead to serious emergencies.

10. Respect for nature and environment

To protect mountain nature: do not leave waste, avoid noise, stay on trails, do not disturb wild and grazing animals, leave plants untouched, and respect protected areas. Use public transport or form carpooling for arrival.

A2 South Motorway - Wolfsberg South exit - towards St. Michael - Lading

see planning your arrival

Lavanttal Hiking Bus 2020

 Together safely on Austria’s mountain pastures

www.region-lavanttal.at