Then you approach the magnificent peaks of the Wilder Kaiser region just as the ‘young wild ones’ – Preuß, Dülfer, Rebitsch and co. – used to do in days gone by. Sounds exciting? It certainly is – and it’s a source of pride, too, when you’ve achieved it all under your own steam.
Text: Susa Schreiner
From our Starting Point in Ellmau, we cycle comfortably to the first stop on our route, the Wochenbrunner Alpine Pasture. There’s a climb of around 290 metres to tackle by bike – those who wish can use electric assistance, whilst purists rely solely on muscle power. Either way, without a car, your senses are much more alert early in the morning as you breathe in the scent of the meadows and watch the cows perform their own version of the yoga sun salutation.
The second stage takes you on foot along a wide Hiking Trail towards the Gaudeamushütte, affectionately known to locals as the ‘Gaudi-Hütte’. If time allows, you can stop for a break on the terrace here – otherwise, leave the Mountain Lodge/Hut on your right and follow the yellow signs to the start of the Klamml Via Ferrata/Iron Way. The path leads past the Marmot Rock, a lovingly restored climbing rock face complete with wooden benches. Recharge your batteries one last time – from here on, the terrain becomes rougher.
We kit ourselves out with a climbing harness, helmet and Via Ferrata/Iron Way set. From here on, we’re heading vertically towards today’s destination, the Gruttenhütte, and the motto is: full concentration ahead. Place your feet precisely on the rock, build up pressure, push yourself up – and really give it your all with your arm muscles.
The Klamml Via Ferrata/Iron Way is very challenging and is not suitable for beginners or young children. It can be divided into two sections, separated by the spectacular double-rope bridge. Anyone who gets cold feet here should take a look at it, choose the exit route and climb up to the Gruttenhütte via a Hiking Trail. Everyone else dares to dance across the wire rope and, in the second section, pushes their way up a steep wall using iron rungs and ladders. Muscle power and strong nerves are essential.
The exit comes into view far too quickly. You cover the last few metres to the Gruttenhütte by hiking with a spring in your step, always with the terrace in sight. The descent back to the Wochenbrunner Alpine Pasture and the bikes is straightforward along a lovely path, partly through dense woodland, where numerous cairns in the clearings create a mystical atmosphere.
Travelling by train. From Innsbruck to Wörgl, then continue by bus to Ellmau. Riding time around 1 hour 45 minutes. Check online in advance whether you can take bikes on board; timetables are available at oebb.at.
Bike hire on site. Many sports shops in Ellmau and the surrounding villages hire out Mountain Bikes and E-Bikes. The cost for one day ranges from 20 to 40 euros depending on the category – book online or through the tourist board.
Via Ferrata/Iron Way routes in the area. You can find all the options around the Wilder Kaiser on the area pages.
Tips & Safety
Would you like to know more about climbing safety? Click here for our safety tips.
