Summer activities
near the Apartment Naturnah
Schladming-Dachstein Card
The wonderful location of our apartments in the heart of the region, in the Obertal district of Schladming, opens up a wide range of vacation activities for the whole family. Here, you can enjoy the luxury of peace and quiet—yet the charming mountain town of Schladming and the diverse attractions of the Schladming-Dachstein region are just a short distance away.
A special perk—as a guest of our hotel, you’ll receive a free Summer Card that grants you access to over 100 top attractions at no cost starting from your first day, plus many bonus activities at significantly discounted prices.
The Summer Card is valid from 1:00 PM on the day of arrival and all day on the day of departure. As a guest of our hotel, you’ll receive the Summer Card free of charge.
With the Sommercard you can enjoy almost every one of our facilities in the region in summer for free!
You can use the following services free of charge:
• Mountain railways (Dachstein, Planai, Hochwurzen, ...)
• Toll roads (Dachsteinstraße, Ursprungalm, Lake Constance, ...)
• Transportation (bus Ramsau / Dachstein, hiking bus, ...)
• Bathing lakes & baths (indoor swimming pool Ramsau, Bad Schladming, leisure lake Pichl, ...)
• Museums (Stift Admont & Museum Schloss Trautenfels, Museum Schladming, ...)
• Leisure and nature experience (experience "Wilde Wasser",)
• Sports and hiking (INJOY sports & wellness clubs, Qi Gong, ...)
• Children's and family program (Kids Forest Park Ramsau, Kids Adventure Park, ...
In addition, you will receive reductions for the following services:
Bicycle rental, rafting, paragliding, jeep safari, Bromriesen Untertal, Tennis courts, golf course Ramsau, archery, National park Gesäuse, summer toboggan run Hochwurzen
Hiking vacation in Austria in the region Schladming-Dachstein / Styria
The view from your apartment is sure to inspire you to “conquer” the nearby mountains of the Schladminger Tauern or the Dachstein Massif.
We invite you to start looking forward to your extraordinary hiking experience in the Schladming-Dachstein region today. Here is a selection of our favorite hikes:
Easy hikes for families and leisure hikers
The Duisitzkarsee in the Obertal
This mountain lake is a true gem of the Tauern and is hard to beat in terms of scenic beauty. Its deep blue color and the view of the surrounding mountains guarantee moments of pure enjoyment. Speaking of enjoyment—you shouldn’t miss walking around the lake for the views, or stopping at one of the two huts—the Duisitzkarseehütte and the Fahrlechhütte—for the culinary delights. If you’d like, you can take a loop trail via the Neualm to the Keinprechthütte and back to the starting point at the Eschachhütte. Feel free to leave your car at your vacation home; the free hiking bus will take you comfortably to the starting point and back home again.
The Riesachsee in the Untertal
What sounds a bit wild quickly turns out to be a scenic highlight and is more reminiscent of paradise. The “Durch die Höll” alpine trail is part of the “Wild Water” trail and leads across a 50-meter-long suspension bridge and numerous ladders along the imposing 100-meter-high waterfall, finally reaching the idyllic Riesachsee. If you prefer a less spectacular route, you can also reach the lake via a forest path suitable for strollers. Once you reach the top, you’ll be captivated by this magnificent scenery. Typical Styrian delicacies await you at the Gfölleralm at 1,338 meters above sea level.
Hike from the Gasselhöhe - Rippertegg - Spiegelsee / Reiteralm
This hike offers truly majestic views stretching far beyond the region. You can reach the starting point at Reiteralm—a multi-award-winning ski resort in winter—several days a week via the modern “Preunegg Jet” gondola or the Reiteralm Road; both are free with your Summer Card. From there, you’ll hike up to the Gasslhöhe at 2,001 meters and continue along an attractive ridge to the summit of the Rippetegg. Accompanied at every turn by phenomenal views of the Dachstein massif and the Tauern mountains, you’ll find countless photo opportunities of the highest caliber. If you choose the loop trail, you’ll also reach the Reiteralm Spiegelseen. They are true celebrities. When there is no wind, the Dachstein massif across the valley is reflected in the water, creating a unique backdrop that has served as an attractive “photo model” countless times. Back at the Reiteralm, numerous huts await you, such as the Reiteralmhütte, Gasslhöhhütte, and Eiskarhütte, offering authentic local delicacies.
There’s plenty for children of all ages to discover here, too. In addition to great bike trails complete with a conveyor belt, real snow and fantastic play areas are available even in summer. Definitely worth an extra visit!
To Giglachsee over the Ursprungalm
Another must-see destination is the pair of Giglach Lakes. They’re particularly easy to reach on foot from the Ursprungalm, even with children. With the Summer Card, you can also reach this starting point completely free of charge. The idyllic setting, nestled in a striking mountain landscape, will completely captivate you. Silver used to be mined here, but we think this hiking paradise is worth its weight in gold. If you’d like, you can hike around the lakes, stop for a bite to eat at the Giglachseehütte or Ignaz-Mathis-Hütte, and then perhaps continue on to the Lungauer or Steirische Kalkspitze. A breathtakingly beautiful panorama is included!
Long distance trails
From the Hochwurzen to the Giglachlakes
This hike requires a bit of stamina, but it rewards you with a breathtaking mountain experience and unforgettable views. Take the gondola up to the Hochwurzen, then head south for about 6 hours across alpine pastures and rocky trails to the Giglachseen lakes. On this hike, the Tauern Mountains reveal their most beautiful side, and you should definitely take the time to appreciate it. The Giglachseehütte and Duisitzkarhütte are perfect for a snack before heading down to the Ursprungalm, where you can catch the hiking bus for the return trip.
From the Gollinghütte - Klafferkessel - Preintalerhütte - Riesachlake
This premier hike, lasting 8 to 10 hours, is suitable for experienced hikers, who will be rewarded with a wealth of breathtaking views. From the Gollinghütte, the trail leads up to the 2,618-meter-high Greifenberg, which offers a stunning panorama and already provides a glimpse of the approximately 30 lakes of the Klafferkessel. This relic of the Ice Age impresses with its extraordinary beauty, and you should allow enough time to fully enjoy this wonderful place. The route continues to the Preintalerhütte and back down to the Untertal via the Riesachsee.
Cycling, mountain biking, and e-biking in Schladming-Dachstein
From casual cyclists to ambitious elite riders—the Schladming-Dachstein region in Styria is a paradise for all cycling enthusiasts.
From your vacation home, the “Naturnah” apartment building, there are numerous routes to choose from—ranging from easy rides on the Ennstal Cycle Path, which you can easily reach via the Talbachweg, to routes into the Untertal and Obertal valleys, all the way to challenging mountain bike tours that take you along well-marked trails throughout the entire Schladming-Dachstein region.
Along your routes, you’ll find wonderful places to stop for refreshments, such as the Waldhäuslalm, Sondlalm, Weiße Wand in Untertal, or the Eschachalm in Obertal. In total, there are more than 50 tours with over 900 kilometers of well-marked trails available.
Starting point: Naturnah
Wild Waters (Bike & Hike)
The route follows the road through the beautiful Untertal valley, past the Tettermoor, which is known for its unique flora and fauna. There are plenty of places to stop along the way: Waldhäuslalm (especially for kids), Sondlalm (quaint), Weiße Wand (best Kaiserschmarrn)
At the end of the valley is the trailhead for the Riesach Waterfall and the Riesachfall Alpine Inn. Here you can take another break and enjoy the scenery before heading back the same way, or you can leave your bike behind and venture up the approximately 40-minute trail to Riesach Lake.
Loop: Untertal – Janabrücke – Fastenberg (E-bike recommended)
Head toward Riesach until you reach Janerweg. Turn left here. Continue along the road onto Fastenbergweg, passing the Fiedlerhof and Mitterwallnerhof. At the end of Fastenbergweg, you’ll cross Planaistraße, which leads to the Planai mid-station. The Kessleralm is a great spot to stop for a break—it’s a hotspot for all cyclists.
The return route takes you along Planaistraße, through downtown Schladming, and through the Talbachklamm gorge back to the Appartement Naturnah.
Preunegg-Ursprungsalm (E-bike or bike)
The route passes the Hochwurzen gondola station; shortly after, a turnoff to the right leads into Preunegg. From there, follow the valley to the Ursprungsalm toll booth. The view along this stretch will make you forget everything else. After about 1 hour and 45 minutes, you’ll arrive at your destination, the Ursprungsalm. The route then follows the same path back.
Shop-Eat-Bike
This suggested route takes you through the Talbachklamm gorge to the center of Schladming. You can leave your bike at the main square to sit in one of the outdoor dining areas or browse a shop or two.
Downhill biking
If you prefer downhill riding—but with plenty of speed—you’ll love the elite downhill trail on the Planai. Where skiers find perfect conditions in winter, daring downhill riders take to the slopes in summer. And if you’ve still got energy left—just hop back on the gondola and go for another run!
The Schladming Bike Park
The Schladming Bike Park on the Planai, with a length of 40 km and an elevation difference of 1,000 meters, is one of Austria’s largest bike parks. The offerings range from easy flow trails for beginners to challenging freeride trails for pros.
Accessibility: by bike via the Talbachklamm in 10 minutes
Downhill Fun on the Reiteralm
Compared to the Schladming Bike Park, the Reiteralm is more compact and caters primarily to experienced downhill riders. Beginners and families with children, however, will find more suitable options here in the “Reiteralm Junior Trails,” which feature practice courses and easy descents. The most famous downhill route on the Reiteralm is Route 66, offering an action-packed ride over rough and smooth terrain. The trail is ideal for advanced riders looking for a challenge and natural downhill sections.
Accessibility: by bike via the Talbachklamm in 10 minutes to the “Schladming/Lendplatz” bus stop, then by bus in 30 minutes.
Here you’ll find all the info & more bike tours in Schladming-Dachstein.
Family vacation with children's activities
Hikes and Activities for Kids
When we're out and about with kids, we like to choose routes where the journey itself is the destination. There's so much to explore and discover that boredom never even has a chance to set in.
Tip: With the Kids Summer Card, there are over 40 great vacation activities designed especially for the little ones. Adventure, play & fun, creativity, and crafts—your kids are sure to find the perfect activity!
Märchenwanderweg und Schwammerllehrpfad
There are wonderful fairy-tale hiking trails on the Rohrmoos and in Ramsau on the Rittisberg. Following in the footsteps of the most beautiful princesses, Snow White, Hansel, and Gretel, even the youngest children reach their destination effortlessly, as if by magic. At the Rittisberg, a surprise awaits brave hikers, along with a huge playground featuring many animals, a barefoot trail, and much more. By the way, the Rittisberg is a fantastic adventure mountain—even for older kids, who will love zooming through the forest on the Flyline or racing down the mountain on the Rittiscoaster.
Giant mushrooms are the highlights along the Mushroom Trail in Rohrmoos—a very nicely designed path for a great walk.
1. Austrian Children's Nature Trail
There’s a cool attraction to be found at Sattelberg in Ramsau. The 1st Austrian Children’s Nature Trail here is full of excitement. Young explorers and researchers encounter the realm of Kali, the Ramsaurier, and set out to uncover nature’s secrets. Even adults will be amazed by a thing or two they learn here.
Extra tip: Young geocachers will also get their money’s worth here, and the caches are hidden with real imagination.
Climbing for Kids
On the north side of the children’s nature trail, there is the Kali children’s via ferrata, and for older climbing enthusiasts, the Kala, Kalo, and Heidi youth via ferratas. Children with climbing experience will also enjoy two new via ferratas on the Reiteralm, along the path to the Spiegelseen.
The highest playground in Styria
Hopsi, the Planai mascot, invites all the kids to come play, play, and play some more on their local mountain. Giant climbing frames, water play areas, wooden snowmobiles, a marble run, a giant swing, and a real snow groomer—if only one day were enough…
Bike Playground and Summer Snow on the Reiteralm
On the western slope of the 4-Mountain Ski Area, kids aren’t just welcome in the winter—they’ll also find plenty to do in the summer. And there’s actually snow to play in even in the summer! Plus, there’s a giant sandbox and, brand new, junior bike trails in four different difficulty levels. Great—kids can save their energy for the descent and take the conveyor belt back to the starting point. Really cool, and off they go again! Helmets, protective gear, and bikes are available for rent!
And when it rains...
... then we have plenty of great tips just for our younger guests. Check out our recommendations for things to do on rainy days.
Swimming vacations at Styrian lakes and water parks
What could be better than diving into the cool water on a hot day, swimming, splashing around, and just having fun? Enjoy a great selection of swimming pools and lakes with excellent water quality during your summer vacation—free with the Sommercard!
Schladming Water Park
The Schladming Water Park features a heated outdoor pool and a fantastic indoor pool complete with spectacular slides, whirlpools, spinning pools, and waterfall showers. A huge sunbathing lawn, a beach volleyball court, a solarium, a sauna, and a fitness center round out the offerings.
Pichl Swimming Lake: More Than Just a Lake
Pichler Badesee is one of the cleanest swimming lakes in Styria and a popular gathering spot for families and sunbathers. Children can enjoy a great playground with a sandbox and a bouncy castle, and Plantschi, the mascot, stops by from time to time. Active visitors will appreciate the beach volleyball court, and the food options offer plenty of delicious treats.
Hauser Water Park
The Hauser Water Park is small but charming, and with a water temperature of 26 degrees, it’s especially pleasant. The lovely sunbathing area is perfect for relaxing, and if you’re in the mood for some exercise, there’s also a beach volleyball court. Kids of all ages will never get bored here. A giant slide and diving gear available for rent are just a few of the fun activities on offer.
Aicher Lake
The Aicher Badesee is a truly special gem for swimming and relaxing. A huge sunbathing lawn, complete with lovely shaded spots under the trees, lets you quickly forget the stresses of everyday life. There’s plenty to discover in the water as well, including several rafts and islands. For the daring, there’s also a boat-shaped dock from which you can dive into the lake.
There’s also a kayak school on the lake—if you’re interested, you can take your first steps in a kayak here and then paddle down the Enns River under expert guidance, or even try your hand at the giant SUP “Beast.” www.kajaktiv.at
Sightseeing tours of Mozart's city and many more ideas
Salzburg
Salzburg, with its many attractions—such as Hohensalzburg Castle, the Salzburg Festival, the Haus der Natur, Mozart’s birthplace, Getreidegasse, and the entire historic old town—is a well-worth-visiting destination that can be reached in less than an hour by car.
Benedictine Abbey of Admont
The Benedictine Abbey of Admont is also breathtaking, featuring the world’s largest abbey library and a treasure trove of historical manuscripts, impressive art exhibitions, and a natural history museum. Located about 70 kilometers from Schladming, admission is free with your Summer Card!
Trautenfels Castle
Trautenfels Castle is a small but very impressive museum featuring rotating special exhibitions and a permanent exhibition that vividly illustrates the traditions and way of life in the Ennstal valley. It is located about 40 kilometers from Schladming. Admission is free with the Summer Card!
A Soothing and Relaxing Vacation at the “Naturnah” Apartment House
All around our property, you’ll find peaceful tranquility and nature to enjoy. You’re more than welcome to use our garden to make your stay even more pleasant. If you’d like, we’d be happy to provide you with access to our small but lovely wellness area, complete with a sauna and shower, free of charge between 5:00 and 8:00 PM.
We look forward to welcoming you as our guest. We’d be happy to assist you with tips and information to help make your stay in the Schladming-Dachstein region, in the heart of Styria, an unforgettable vacation in Austria.
Along the Talbach Experience water 365 days a year
From our house, it's about a 10-minute walk down to the Talbach.
Downstream toward Schladming
In about 30 minutes on foot, you’ll walk along the beautiful Talbach Gorge to the center of Schladming. Along the way, you can enjoy the sound of the rushing water. Occasionally, a misty spray cools you off as the water shoots up so forcefully. The cool, moist air from the water is perfect on hot days. A legend in the middle of the path, accompanied by information boards, also invites you to read, marvel, and linger.
Upstream toward the Riesach Waterfall
Walking time: approx. 3 hours (it is possible to start later and walk to the Riesach parking lot)
If you have more time and energy, the entire trail along the Talbach stream up to Riesach Lake, past the spectacular Riesach Waterfall, is well worth the effort. The trail leads through the beautiful Untertal valley. Enjoy the mountain panorama, as well as the stream, which becomes increasingly idyllic and narrow. The Tettermoor, which runs alongside the route, is a paradise for rare plants and animals. The moorland is a protected ecosystem of great importance to the region. It invites visitors to relax and linger. The trail now leads to the trailhead and the Riesachsteig parking lot and bus stop. Here, many steep steps lead up along the waterfall to Lake Riesach. Once you reach the top, two rustic huts await you: the Gfölleralm at the beginning and the Kaltenbachalm at the end of the lake.
Legendary
Two legends are recounted on an information board in the middle of the gorge: one tells of the Lindwurm, a dragon that once lived in Lake Riesach. It is said to be trapped inside the Fastenberg mountain, where it burrows. Sometimes it roars and shakes so violently that it causes the mountain to tremble. People say that one day he will break through and sweep the underground waters toward Schladming and throughout the entire Ennstal valley. The second story is about a couple, Toni Bachler and Viktl from Krahberg. They spent their summers at the Krahberghütte on the Planai, but their home was at the edge of the forest in the Talbachklamm gorge. One day, when Viktl went to check on her Toni, she found him stuck in the wash tub at home. As she tried to free him, the tub rolled away with Toni inside and shattered on its way down into the Talbach Gorge. Even today, in the shadow of the Talbach waters, one can sometimes make out eerie shadows that resemble a wooden tub.
A refreshing escape from the heat on hot days & colorful leaves in the fall
The “Wilde Wasser” themed trail is arguably the region’s best-known trail. It begins with a section through the Talbachklamm gorge in Schladming and winds its way for a total of 14 kilometers through a fascinating landscape. From Schladming deep into the Rohrmoos valleys of Untertal and Obertal, the “water trails” extend to altitudes of up to 2,600 meters above sea level.
The sound of rushing water, the chirping of birds, and the fresh mountain air let every hiker forget their daily routine. Occasionally, a misty spray provides a cooling effect, as the water sprays up so forcefully here. The cool, moist air from the water is ideal on hot days.
In the fall, the gorge is adorned with a colorful blanket of leaves, which it gradually sheds. When the sun illuminates the scene, the spectacle of colors is perfect. The crunching sound as you step on the fallen leaves is also part of the fall experience in the gorge.
Take a stroll to Schladming and enjoy a leisurely day of shopping
It takes about 30 minutes to walk through the Talbach Gorge to the center of Schladming. At the end of the gorge, you’ll first come across the white Protestant church. Then you’ll enter a charming town center and a large pedestrian zone on the main square, featuring many shops, restaurants, and cafés. The variety of shops ranges from clothing and sports gear to regional souvenirs. Behind the main square stands the yellow Catholic church and the adjacent Schladming city gate. Heading toward Planai Stadium, just past the main square, you’ll find the beautiful old town hall (formerly the hunting lodge and residence of the Brazilian branch of the Saxe-Coburg and Gotha family), complete with a lovely park where you can relax and a playground for the kids to run around.