The Schladming-Dachstein region is located in Styria and is best known for its Dachstein Glacier, situated at an altitude of 2,700 m and part of the highest mountain in Styria. Enjoy a spectacular view and let yourself be impressed by this breathtaking natural scenery. Overlook the beautiful mountain ranges of Austria all the way to the peaks of the Czech Republic. An excursion you definitely won’t forget anytime soon.
In Schladming-Dachstein, a variety of interesting experiences await you. These are centered around the Dachstein Glacier and Dachstein Massif and promise plenty of variety. Book a seat on the Dachstein Glacier Cable Car or explore the Dachstein Suspension Bridge. Also worth seeing are the Dachstein Sky Ladder and the Stairway to Nothingness. Other special highlights include the Ice Palace and the Sky Walk.
The Dachstein Glacier Cable Car promises you a wonderful view on the way to the Dachstein Massif. Hover high above the ground and get closer to Styria’s highest mountain than ever before. The fully glazed panoramic gondola gives you the unforgettable opportunity to catch an incredible glimpse of the imposing mountain and feel like you’ve entered another world.
Tip: If you want to make sure you don’t miss this experience, you can book your gondola seat in advance. Tickets are available on the Schladming-Dachstein website. Please note that the road to the Dachstein Glacier Cable Car is subject to a toll (also called a special toll). If you take the glacier cable car, the fee for using the Dachstein Road will be waived. To do this, you must validate your toll ticket at the Dachstein mountain station. However, if you do not use the glacier cable car, you must pay the special toll. Further information on the toll routes and corresponding special tolls can be found in our guide.
Not only the glacier cable car promises a unique view, but also the Dachstein Sky Ladder. Climb the twelve steps up to a glass platform. This platform lets you gaze far into the depths and distance, offering you a spectacular view of the Dachstein. Don’t forget to capture a picture at this unique location! One small note: for visiting the Sky Ladder, sturdy shoes and warm clothing are recommended, as you are at high altitude. You can reach the Sky Ladder via the panoramic terrace of the Dachstein Glacier Restaurant.
The Dachstein Suspension Bridge not only guarantees a wonderful view but also a thrilling adrenaline kick. After all, who can claim to have looked out over the Dachstein from so high up on a suspension bridge? This experience offers you incredible views both into the distance and into the depths. It’s no wonder that the Dachstein Suspension Bridge is Austria’s highest suspension bridge. Once you’re on the bridge and have conquered your inner fear, you’ll find yourself with 400 m of abyss beneath you. This attraction combines the breathtaking panorama right before your eyes with the Dachstein massif beneath your feet. In addition, the bridge also leads you directly to the next Dachstein highlight, the Ice Palace.
But before heading to the Ice Palace, don’t miss the Stairway to Nothingness. Located at the end of the Dachstein Suspension Bridge, it leads you in just a few steps to a glass platform at dizzying height. The Stairway to Nothingness offers you the unique chance to stand directly against the rock face and get even closer to the Dachstein mountains. Dare to embark on this almost frightening adventure, and you will be rewarded with a view that few people ever get to see. An experience you will surely share with others. Please note that dogs are not allowed on either the suspension bridge or the Stairway to Nothingness.
The Ice Palace gives you the feeling of entering a new world where anything is possible. Explore the mystical world of eternal ice and immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere of the “Explore the Glacier” exhibition. There you can discover the different facets of the glacier and marvel at impressive ice sculptures and pillars. From the glacier cable car, you can quickly reach the Ice Palace via the suspension bridge. Please note that dogs are not allowed here either.
The Sky Walk also promises a special kind of thrill, allowing you to enjoy the mountain panorama from incredible heights. Directly beneath your feet, you can see the 250 m sheer rock face of the Hunerkogel without having to climb it. The Sky Walk is made of glass, giving you an unobstructed view in every direction. If you’re lucky and the weather is excellent, you might even see as far as the Hohe Tauern, Slovenia, and the Czech Republic. But not only the Sky Walk is worthwhile, the circular trail around the glacier cable car mountain station is also recommended. Along this path, you can admire the striking Dachstein South Face and enjoy the beautiful Alpine peaks. You can also take a wonderful break here by sitting in one of the cozy beach chairs.
In addition to the activities mentioned above, Schladming-Dachstein is also known for its wide variety of hiking routes that will definitely bring you closer to Austria’s nature. You can follow the routes on your own or join guided tours. Nordic walking is also very popular in this region! Besides one-day hikes, you can also go on multi-day hiking tours. Furthermore, you can go on climbing trips or explore nature with a mountain bike. For those who want more excitement, rafting or canyoning are also available.
But it’s not just in summer that you can enjoy activities in Schladming-Dachstein, but also in winter. The ski season starts at the beginning of December with a true highlight – a music event you definitely won’t want to miss! From 05.12.25 to 07.12.25, the Backstreet Boys will open the new ski season. After that, you can truly start your ski holiday and explore the so-called 4-Mountain Ski Circuit. So what is this 4-Mountain Ski Circuit? The special feature of Schladming-Dachstein is that you don’t have to choose just one mountain but can enjoy four different ones. The 4-Mountain Ski Circuit connects Hauser Kaibling, Planai, Hochwurzen, and Reiteralm. This will make your skiing experience unforgettable! In this ski region, there’s something for everyone!
Depending on your travel goals, the best time to visit Schladming-Dachstein varies. If you’d like to explore nature in pleasant temperatures and get to know the Dachstein Massif better, summer is the perfect time to visit. However, if you want to experience the region’s winter magic and improve your skiing skills, then winter is the best time to travel to Schladming-Dachstein. Don’t forget about the special music event at the start of the ski season!
If you’re planning a new ski adventure in Austria, our guide also lets you discover other ski resorts that are just as worth visiting.
We wish you a wonderful trip to Austria and lots of fun on your exploration tour of Schladming-Dachstein. Don’t forget to inform yourself about Austria’s toll regulations. More information on tolls can be found in our guide. You are also welcome to use our route planner to better plan your trip and see the associated toll products. If you have any questions, we will be happy to help. Contact us via our e-mail.
