2020 modern times come with neither party nor concert, no random encounter nor further excitement – hence, best practice is to find attractive destinations during weekends. With the warm sun laughing  at November bias, today’s target is the Brünnstein.

Barbara joins and proudly presents her brand new via ferrata equipment: harness, loops, carbines and helmet. It will turn out that we are entirely over-equipped, but at least we look adventureous like hell.

The route is a wonderful mixture of steep paths, relaxed forest roads and green meadows. And not all of it is muddy.

Despite the early snow we had a couple of weeks ago, November starts with short-sleeve temperatures. Just like the fixed-rope sets, the downy jackets serve our fitness as we carry them up and down in our backpacks.

For whatever which reason it takes longer than expected to reach the Brünnsteinhaus. We pause for a moment and gain back some of the burnt calories when plundering our backpacks. The regular restaurant service is closed (Covid19 rules), but the sunny terrace offers tables and chairs and even beer or juice thanks to the installed beverage dispenser.

Ahead of the lodge, the “Dr. Julius Mayr” via ferrata leads to the summit. It is a charming trail as it includes iron steps, climbing passages and cavity. All easy enough, but fun nonetheless.

What I like best are the exposed paths that make you feel lightweight and offer wide horizons from a bird’s eye perspective.

The Brünnstein peak is in reach for hikers free from giddiness, meaning: us. And about a dozen more…

I can hardly imagine how crowded this spot must be in high season. At least you will always find a good photographer for splendid summit portraits!

Eventually, we start our descent with some steel ropes on the steep upper part of the trail. The more height we lose, the more we witness a change in scenery: Climbing rocks give way to lush pastures and forests. The setting is very rural as for the entire route the only prominent signs of civilization are some alpine shacks.

Along the way we detect quite some road signs that mark further tempting destinations. Looks like we might come back for more someday…

865m altit. difference

<13 km

5:15 h

challenging