Sometimes it’s the exceptional rock quality, sometimes the short Access, so you can still squeeze in a bit of scrambling after work. And sometimes it’s the Mountain Lodge/Hut at the end of the trail.
The Rock Climbing Areas around the Darmstädter Mountain Lodge, high above St. Anton am Arlberg, have it all – except for the short access.
Text: Simon Schöpf
11 kilometres, 1,200 metres of Altitude, a good four hours – that’s how high up the Knödel are when you hike up there. If you prefer, you can grab a Mountain Bike in St. Anton instead and cycle up through the secluded Moostal valley.
With an electric motor, the altitude is no longer a gruelling effort: what would otherwise be a proper mountain biking ride becomes a warm-up stroll. The big advantage of this is that you reach the top with strength in your arms, rather than with wobbly legs.
The Rock Climbing Areas are situated in the immediate vicinity of the Mountain Lodge/Hut. There are several large boulders in the surrounding area which have been fitted with adhesive pitons:
The area is characterised by compact rock and a wide selection of routes. That’s really all you need to know.
Afterwards, it’s wonderful to dip your aching feet into the little mountain stream – and then you’ve really earned them: the Darmstädter Mountain Lodge/Hut is famous for its dumplings far beyond the Arlberg.
The only question that remains is whether to spend the night in the rustic Mountain Lodge/Hut and check out the ‘Schweinestall’ the next day – or simply roll back down into the valley at a leisurely pace.
Tips & Safety
Would you like to know more about climbing safety? Click here for our safety tips.
