Donnersbachwald is a hiker’s paradise. This walk is definitely recommended for those who enjoy a bit of outdoor exercise. This panoramic walk takes us over a number of mountain peaks in Donnersbachwald. On one side of the ridge lies the Donnersbachtal valley. On the other side lies the Sölktal valley. Breathtaking.
The Sölktal as seen from Finsterkarspitz
Last time, we hiked to the Finsterkaralm from our village. This time, we are making it a little easier for ourselves. We take the chairlift to the middle station. There we take a left and hike to Finsterkar Alm. At Finsterkar Alm, we refill our drinking cans with mountain water before starting the climb.
Our first next stop is the Finsterkarsee. Small but lovely. We then ascend further to the Finsterkarspitz. This climb is quite challenging (but not technical). Along the way, we do turn round a few times to take some photos of the beautiful mountain scenery. The Finsterkarspitz is the first peak on this panoramic walk across the mountain peaks in Donnersbachwald.
On arrival at the Finsterkarspitz, our stomachs are already growling a bit. So we look for a spot with a breathtaking view to have our picnic. From here, we regularly have views of both the Donnersbach Valley and the Sölk Valley. We then continue along the ridge towards the Großes Bärneck. A little past the Großes Bärneck, we take a right to the Morsbachwirt. There we have a drink on the terrace. After that, we get a bit lazy. So we call the non-hikers to pick us up at the summer car park.
5-peak walk: for the more adventurous
If you’re fit and fancy a bit more of a challenge, you can add three more peaks to this walk. Allow for about three extra hours. The final section of this walk is usually quite damp and marshy. Make sure you’re wearing suitable footwear (preferably high-top, waterproof boots).
We have already passed the Finsterkarspitz and the Großes Bärneck. Instead of turning right after the Großes Bärneck, we are now heading straight on. We will now pass the Kleines Bärneck, the Sonntagskarspitz and the Schwärzkarspitz in succession. You can find the photos and videos of this section here.
A good bit past the Schärzkarspitz, we take a right and descend back to the Mörsbachwirt. Wherever we would have ended up without the extension.
The real die-hards can even turn it into a six-peak hike. They can carry on as far as the Lämmertörlkopf and turn right there. A little further on, they’ll need to turn right again and then left to take the path to the Mörsbachwirt. We haven’t done this last bit ourselves yet. For safety’s sake, always take a map with you and check the weather in advance.
Enjoy. The covered terrace and the spa at Haus Erna are waiting for you.
