Winter hike on Schneeberg
Von Lisa Schröer
I arrive at Vienna Central Station on a cold, foggy winter morning. My destination: the Schneeberg! A day full of beautiful nature, fresh air and unforgettable moments lies ahead of me – and who knows, maybe the sun will even peek through the mist! Thanks to my KlimaTicket Ö, the adventure begins relaxed, without stress, searching for a parking space or traffic jams. Simply get in, lean back and enjoy the moment.
Starting point
Bus station “Losenheim chairlift”
How to get there
From St. Pölten: 02:10
From Vienna: 01:40
Hiking route
route 1:
snowshoe round trip to Edelweißhütte
route 2:
round trip to the Sebastianwasserfall
Catering
Edelweißhütte, Almreserhaus
Difficulty
route 1: easy-intermediate
route 2: intermediate
Altitude meters
route 1: 360 altitude meters
route 2: 540 altitude meters
The journey: stress-free by train
Who hasn’t experienced it? The endless back and forth before a trip: “Who’s driving? Where do we park?” Not today! We’re traveling by train! I meet my friends on the platform and, thanks to our seat reservation, we manage to secure a cozy table in the wagon. We have deliberately avoided the quiet compartment, because traveling by train together is always an opportunity for chatting. The journey is like a little break. As we enjoy our conversation, we watch the wintry landscape pass by. At first, the landscape is covered in thick fog, but soon the sun breaks through and the light shines on the fields. No traffic, no hustle and bustle – we simply enjoyed nature.
We change buses briefly in Wiener Neustadt and reach Puchberg am Schneeberg station after a total journey time of around 1.5 hours. The 350 bus is already waiting to take us directly to the valley station of the Schneeberg chairlift (Losenheim). The connection is perfectly timed – another plus point for traveling by public transport. During the ride, we slowly head higher and the anticipation of wonderful views grows.
dreamy romance for adventurers: Puchberg am Schneeberg
Puchberg am Schneeberg is a charming market town in Lower Austria, around 80 km from Vienna – perfect for an excursion in the Vienna area. The highlight of the municipality is the Schneeberg, whose highest point – the 2,076-metre-high Klosterwappen – is also the highest mountain in Lower Austria and one of the Wiener Hausberge. Puchberg is not only a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers, but is also known for its climatic health spas and the traditional Schneebergbahn cable car, which has been taking visitors up the mountain for over 100 years. A stroll through the village with its historic buildings is just as worthwhile as a break in one of the cozy cafés. *
1. The snowshoe round tour: enjoyment and panorama
(approx. 1.5 hours)
For beginners and families, the snowshoe hike from the chairlift parking lot offers a wonderful round trip. If you don’t have your own snowshoes, you can rent them directly at the valley station – practical and uncomplicated. If there is no snow, the route is also easy to walk without snowshoes. The trail leads through snow-covered forests and gentle slopes up to the Edelweißhütte. There you will not only find a welcoming refreshment stop, but also a spectacular view of the valley. If you wish, you can take the chairlift back down to the valley afterwards – perfect if your legs are getting tired or for an excursion with children. In total, the tour takes 1.5 hours and covers around 360 meters in altitude.
2. The hike to the Sebastian waterfall: a little adventure
(approx. 3.5 hours)
As we have a good amount of time, we opt for the second route, which takes us to the Sebastian Waterfall. This round trip is a little more demanding, with an elevation gain of around 540 meters, but the challenge is worth it. We set off into the forest from the chairlift valley station in solid footwear. The path is quiet, almost meditative, and the clear winter air fills our lungs. The first refreshment stop comes after about an hour at the Edelweißhütte or the Almreserlhaus. We decide to continue walking and enjoy magnificent views of the valley as the sun shines through.
After another hour or so, we hear the first splashing – an auspicious sign. We have now reached the Sebastian waterfall and climb up a few rocks to get a better view of the natural spectacle. The water makes its way over icy rocks and the rays of the winter sun magically create sparkling crystals.
From here, we continue on our way to the Sebastianhütte. Even though it is currently closed, we take advantage of the idyllic spot for a short drink and snack break. Refreshed, we finally make our way back to the valley station, accompanied by the peaceful silence of winter nature.
Journey back: relaxed and satisfied
Back at the chairlift valley station, the bus takes us back to Puchberg. We have time to reflect on the impressions of the day. The mountains, the peace and quiet, the feeling of having accomplished something – all this accompanies us on the way home.
We end the day on the train back to Vienna. Everyone can rest, read or simply look out of the window. This once again demonstrates one of the great advantages of the KlimaTicket Ö: nobody has to drive themselves, nobody is stressed. Instead, we can all relax and enjoy the journey home just as much as the outward journey.
The environmental aspect should not be overlooked either. Our train journey significantly reduced our CO₂ emissions compared to traveling by car. A sustainable excursion that is not only good for us, but also for nature – that’s what makes traveling with the KlimaTicket Ö so special. No parking hassle, no nervous search for the best route – just get in, unwind and enjoy the moment together.
Our day trip to the Schneeberg ends with a satisfied smile and the thought: when are we going on our next trip?
Conclusion: The Schneeberg – a winter paradise for young and old
Whether you opt for a relaxed snowshoe hike or an adventurous tour to the Sebastian waterfall – the Schneeberg offers plenty for everyone. With the KlimaTicket Ö, your excursion is not only stress-free, but also environmentally friendly and sustainable. A day in this picturesque winter landscape is beneficial for both the body and soul.
So, what are you waiting for? Pack your hiking boots, grab some friends or family and discover the Schneeberg – a winter adventure you are unlikely to forget.
Tip: It’s best to plan your excursion during the week to enjoy the tranquillity of nature even more intensely. And don’t forget to pack your camera – the panoramic views from the Schneeberg are priceless!
