We had not been to the Alps for a long time. We were curious how we would experience it after our trekking in Nepal. We chose the Austrian Dachstein massif. A trek along 7 huts.

We travelled by train to Salzburg, and from there by local transport to Gosau, the starting point of our hike. We started with a climb through a damp forest. The second day we walked to the Adamekhütte, situated in a spectacular location, under the large Gosaugletscher 

The walk, from there, along the Linzersteig to the Hofpurgelhütte is tough, but very special. It requires constant concentration. But it is great.

After the Hofpurgelhütte it is easier. We walk over alpine pastures where cows graze. In a farm café we drink thick Buttermilk, and the area around the Austriahutte is also green. 

The next day our goal was the Guttenberghaus. In order to avoid the first difficult climb over moraine fields we decided to take the cable car. It turns out to be very popular with day trippers to experience something of the high mountains and the glacier without any effort. The weather is clear. When we have found the start of our path, the markings of red and white paint strokes are easy to find. It is the weekend and the hut is very crowded. Most guests come from the other side, from the valley. They are there to climb on the rocks around the hut. Helmet on, ropes, hooks …

The next day, after a great breakfast, we walk to the Gjaid Alm Hutte. The ‘Alm’ in the name already indicates that this hut is located a bit lower. When we get close, we see a new Nepalese flag waving. The hut appears to be rented by a Nepalese family. In each hut you can find a kitchen-help out of Nepal; they come from Nepal to Austria after the trekking-season and in September, when they can work in Nepal as a guide again, they travel back. But an entire Nepalese family, who are running a hut …

The last day of walking was a long descent to Hallstatt; a very touristy place. After eight days in the mountains, we entered a completely different world and that took some time getting used to it.

We took the train back to Salzburg. And then back home, thinking about the difference with our trip in Nepal. And there is a difference; a trip in the Dachstein massif is much more difficult. But we could do it.

.

.

.