Skier meets Non-Skier „Today, I don't fee like skiing“

Do you know this words in the morning at the breakfast table? The majority of your group wear already their ski outfit, but somebody would prefer to intermit the skiing holiday and would like to start the day comfortably.  Or are you one of those non-skiers who love the winter wonderland with all one's heart, but don't like skis or boards?  In the past, maybe you can remember, you had to go skiing. No ifs, no buts. But those days are gone. “Thank God” some will now breathe a sigh of relief. Today there are enough alternatives in our region, everyone can enjoy life in their own way and for lunch or après-ski you can meet the rest of the group or the family right next to the slopes.

Since we are often asked at the tourist office which huts such groups could meet at, preferably easily accessible for skiers, boarders and people who are on the go without skis, we have put together a few tips for you. This is our contribution so that you can enjoy a pleasant and stress-free holiday in Viehhofen. So it's a win-win situation for everyone.

Prime directive: Holidays should be fun and filled with moments of happiness.

Let's start with the popular and well-known Hecherhütte in Viehhofen, at the slope no. 168. Easily accessible via the Poltenlift I4 and the wonderful 7.5 km long slope down to Viehhofen. This slope still needs natural snow and therefore ensures an unforgettable and unique piste experience. In addition, it is the longest descent in the entire ski area. Cos the slope no. 168  is a blue one, it is wonderfully suitable for the whole family, regardless of whether you are a pleasure skier or a mini racer. 

On cold days you can warm yourself in the Hecherhütte by the fireplace, and on beautiful sky-blue days you can soak up the sun on the big terrace. For non-skiers, the Hecherhütte can either be reached by taxi or on foot. A leisurely winter hike on the sunny side of Viehhofen takes about 1.5 hours to reach the mountain hut. The starting point is in the centre of Viehhofen, from where you only have to follow the signs. However, if you want to climb the mountain road to the Hecherhütte in your own car, snow chains and good driving skills are required. 

Dont' forget to try a Hecherfeuer at the Hecherhütte or reserve a table for a delicious steak in the evening.

Of course, a ride up with the zellamseeXpress, directly from Viehhofen to the Schmittenhöhe, is a must-do. When driving up, you should have your camera ready to hand, because the perfect view of Viehhofen awaits you. 

At the Salersbachköpfl, the mountain station of the zellamseeXpress, you are in the middle of the winter hiking trail no.28. Therefore, you can either keep to the right and hike up the Schmittenhöhe to the Elisabeth chapel, where you can make a rest at the Hochzelleralm or the Schnaps-Hans Alm. Or you prefer the path to your left, which leads to the Sonnkogel with its restaurant. You will find sunny resting places along the entire winter hiking trail no.28 and also pass some sculptures from the “Art on the Mountain” exhibition.

Let's head towards Saalbach with the ski bus, which runs every 10 minutes in the main season and can be used free of charge with a valid ski pass. Directly at the Schönleitenbahn is the terminus and therefore your exit point. The next meeting points are in the immediate vicinity: 

The Jauseralm is located directly at Jausernabfahrt 2a and can be reached on foot in approx. 15 minutes. Walk along the Saalach in the direction of Viehhofen and turn right at the first street crossing. After the Hotel Interstar turn right again and follow the street. The Jauseralm cannot be missed, because when the road comes to an end you are already standing in front of it and can watch skiers and boarders making their turns on the Jausern run. 

If you prefer huts that are higher up, you can take the Schönleitenbahn cable car. Enjoy the view in and out of the valley.  There are two more huts at the middle station of the Schönleitenbahn. On the one hand the Rachkuchl, a rustic hut where you can enjoy the view of Saalbach with a delicious farmer's donut and on the other side of the gondola the Hochwartalm with service and self-service areas and a large terrace.

At the summit, right next to the mountain station of the Schönleitenbahn, you will find the Wildenkarhütte. The view of the Leoganger Steinberge and the Kitzsteinhorn is breathtaking. All those who are looking for a little winter walk, we suggest an easy winter hike to the Berghotel Seidl-Alm. The winter hiking trail leads past the reservoir, which is needed for the snow-making systems. If you already know our region from summer, you are certainly familiar with this hiking trail. It is important to use the same path on the way home, otherwise you would be standing in the middle of the slope. And believe me, as a walker you have no chance against skiers;) 

The mentioned huts are only a sliver of your options in the Glemm valley. The entire ski areas of Saalbach Hinterglemm Leogang Fieberbrunn and Zell am See Kaprun offer a great variety and possibilities that make every winter's heart beat faster.  You can find a detailed list with guidance either in our current information booklet or online on the non-skier page. In the morning hours, you just have to choose what do you prefer. A short or long hike through the wintry landscape, or straight go up to lofty heights with the gondola.

I wish you wonderful moments off the piste on the numerous winter hiking trails in our region. Enjoy the silence and the magical crunch of the snow with every step you take. 

Warm greetings 

Your Michaela 

Note: The ski bus can be used free of charge with a valid ski pass or the sun ticket. Cos only ski passes can be purchased at the tourist office, we will be happy to issue you an authorization card for a one-time trip on the ski bus, so you can use this free of charge to buy your sun ticket at any cable car.