London may have the Lambeth Walk, but Austria takes it to another level with the Eagle Walk. The Eagle Walk is a long-distance hiking trail that spans the entire country, covering 33 stages and offering a total height gain of 31,000 meters. The trail is well-marked with yellow signposts and red and white trail markers painted on trees and rocks along the route.
In this blog post, the author shares their experience of walking the first three stages of the Eagle Walk through the Wilder Kaiser Mountains in North Tyrol. The journey begins just outside St. Johann in Tirol and ends in Kufstein, the second-largest city in Tyrol.
The first stage covers a distance of 13 kilometers and takes approximately 5 hours to complete. The trail starts at the Rummlerhof, a traditional tavern, and gradually ascends through the trees. Along the way, there are caves, waterfalls, alpine meadows, and stunning views. The stage concludes at the Gaudeamushütte hut, where the author spends the night.
The second stage is a 14.5-kilometer hike that takes around 6 hours. It starts with a stretch that includes ladders and cables, which can be challenging for those with a fear of heights. After reaching the Gruttenhutte, the trail descends and then ascends through the forest, eventually leading to the Steiner Hochalm refreshment chalet. The author mistakenly takes a longer route but still enjoys a stay at Pension Maier with a view of Lake Hintersteinersee.
The third stage covers 9.5 kilometers and takes approximately 3.5 hours to complete. The author retraces their steps back up to Walleralm, climbs to the Hochegg ridge for breathtaking views, and then descends to Kufstein. The bustling city is home to an 800-year-old castle, which also houses the world's largest open-air organ.
Throughout the journey, the author highlights the camaraderie among hikers and the excellent signage along the trail. They also note the availability of refreshment stops at mountain huts, where one can enjoy traditional Tyrolean food and beverages.
Overall, the author's experience of the Eagle Walk's initial stages in the Wilder Kaiser Mountains is filled with natural beauty, challenging terrain, and rewarding views. They express a desire to return and tackle the remaining stages of this popular hiking trail.