Impressive gorges, unforgettable views, and hiking in a memorizing alpine landscape are what we experienced during four days in Mölltal in northwestern Carinthia.
We were looking for outdoor adventures slightly off the beaten track, and hiking friends recommended Mölltal in Carinthia. The tip was a success, and we were rewarded with fantastic hiking adventures and outstanding views of the tremendous landscape.
Stunning hikes
Mölltal, a small valley northwest of Carinthia, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and hikers located at the foot of the High Tauern mountain range. The region includes some of Austria’s highest peaks and offers genuinely stunning hikes. We used the village Flattach as a base for our excursions in the Mölltal region. Getting some inside info before exploring the area is always a good idea, so we visited the local tourist office. They recommended we start with an exciting hike through the impressive canyon Raggaschlucht, which offers a thrilling walk through narrow, steep pathways alongside roaring waters.
Raggaschlucht canyon
Raggaschlucht is short but spectacular. Nonetheless, the approximately 800-meter-long gorge offered a great nature experience. Our adventure started with a leisurely walk through the forest along the river and to the mouth of the canyon. From here, we followed safe wooden walkways winding through the narrow gorge. Nonetheless, be aware that the walkways can be slippery. Shoes with non-slip soles are highly recommended.
Furthermore, the walkways are rather steep at times. In addition to enjoying nature, we also picked up some knowledge along the way. In German and English, practical boards offer information about the canyon’s origin and geology. Hiking to the top takes about 1.5 hours. From here, a forest road takes you back to the starting point in 20 minutes. Along the way, you can catch glimpses of the Mölltal.
< Click on the images to enlarge >
Mölltaler Glacier
Next up on our itinerary was hiking at the Mölltaler Glacier. For those seeking high-altitude adventures, the Mölltaler Glacier provides breathtaking views from over 3000 meters, with trails leading deep into the mountains. Sadly, the glacier has shrunk markedly during the last decades and is not very exciting. Nevertheless, whether hiking, skiing, or simply enjoying the view from 3000 meters altitude, the trip is worth the money. You can either hike up the mountain or use the more comfortable and much faster funicular.
On foot or by cable car
The funicular and cable cars take you from the valley at (1250 m) and up to the middle station (2234 m) in only 14 minutes. You continue by cable car from the middle station to the top station at 2800 m. We opted to go even higher up and went for a 20-minute hike from the top station to the chairlift. It takes you up to 3122 meters. You can head on several marked hiking trails far into the mountains. If you want to ski on the glacier, use the same chairlift. At this altitude, the views are truly breathtaking. We could see the Grossglockner 3,798 m (12,461 ft) on the horizon, Austria’s highest mountain. Whether it’s the stunning hikes, the geological wonders, or the panoramic views of Austria’s Highest peaks, Mölltal promises an unforgettable outdoor experience.
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Easy and scenic family walk
Besides the high-altitude hiking trails, the area has plenty of easy walks. We made a lovely walk into the Seebachtal valley. The about 8-kilometre-long walk is one of the easiest, but also among the most beautiful nature experiences we have had in the Alps. The hike follows the primarily flat valley bottom along a dirt road. At the end of the valley, you find a mountain hut offering food and drink. This hike suits families with children or those not ready for mountain hiking. Please read the full article about >>>
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Falkenstein Castle
We always try to visit a medieval castle when travelling around Austria. In Mölltal we added Burg Falkenstein to the list. Nobody knows exactly when the castle was built, but it was first mentioned in written sources in 1164. The castle has been altered many times but has gained much of its current appearance in the last century. Falkenstein Castle is privately owned but offers guided tours on request. We joined a fascinating 1-hour tour that gave us access to most of the castle and took us on a journey through history. It gave us glimpses into the daily life at the castle, inhabited from the Middle Ages to 2004. The keep was highlighted, with a brilliant view of the valley. Falkenstein Castle is open from June to September.
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