Lärchkar Alm: an oasis of rest
Austria means rest for us, getting away from the daily stress. We invariably detox in summer with our traditional hike to Lärchkar Alm. After the long car journey and before embarking on the heavier hiking, this is the ideal walk to get into the rhythm. First thing in the morning, shopping for food and drinks in the valley. After that, we are ready to hit the road.
Driving out of the chalet park, we take the road to the right. After +/- 1 km, we reach the end of the road. Here is a parking lot at the left where we leave the car. From the parking lot, we follow the gravel road for about 200 metres. Then we follow the path on the left that passes alongside the little stream. On our path, we see several side streams thundering down the steep slopes, flowing down into the central stream. A little further, there is even a waterfall.
After a walk of about 50 minutes, we suddenly arrive at a magical place. In the middle of nowhere, Lärchkar Alm pops up out of the blue. This 15th-century farmstead forms the backdrop of an idyllic place. It looks like a postcard. Fabulous to have something to eat and/or drink here. The Brettljause is definitely recommended. (Brettljause is a plate with local cheeses and charcuterie served with some bread).
Sometimes the footpath along the stream is closed due to repair works. In this case, just follow the gravel road. It splits at some point but it does not matter whether you go left or right at the junction. All roads lead to the Lärchkar Alm. Enjoy.
Not tired yet and want to hike a bit further? That is possible. Walk back to the road and turn left. At the junction just after Lärchkar Alm, keep left. After about half an hour, you will arrive at the Stalla Alm. Here, too, you can have a nice meal or a drink with a fantastic view of the mountains.
Lärchkar Alm and Stalla Alm are only open during the summer season. If in doubt, it is best to check with the tourist office whether the huts are open.
More information can be found here.
