A Mountain Paradise Unveiled: Hiking to Olpererhütte in Tyrol

Nestled within the breathtaking landscapes of Tyrol, Austria, the Olpererhütte mountain hut is an easy escape for alpine lovers. Perched at an altitude of 2,389 meters, it is accessible by an enchanting and moderately challenging hike from Schlegeisspeicher Reservoir. Olpererhütte is an inviting refuge that blends harmoniously with its natural surroundings, inviting hikers to immerse themselves in nature's grandeur while relishing in the comforts of traditional Tyrolean hospitality.

The journey to Olpererhütte from Schlegeisspeicher Reservoir is an adventure in itself. As you meander through verdant meadows, don’t forget to stop to admire the turquoise blue water of the reservoir below. But the true highlight of the hike awaits: the awe-inspiring suspension bridge. While it looks as though it spans the reservoir, it merely appears that way, creating an optical illusion, where in photos you seem to be swaying over a dramatic gorge, set against the majestic peaks, towering behind.

The Olpererhütte hut is run by Katharina Daum. A remarkable single mother to a seven-year-old boy, who at the age of 27, defied traditional gender roles and expectations when she took on the challenge of running her first mountain hut. Neighboring farmers placed bets on how long she would last, and despite all the skepticism that women had no place as a mountain hut keeper, Katharina and her son Manuel have successfully run the hut for 25 years. Their journey was not without its challenges. Living off the grid, Manuel completed his homework by the light of a headlamp and would have to wake up at 5:00am to reach school. Meanwhile, bad weather conditions necessitated that essential supplies, typically delivered by helicopters, had to be painstakingly retrieved on foot, making for arduous trips.

At eleven years old, Manuel discovered his talent for cooking, and over the years, has honed his skills and became an exceptional chef. Today, he is a graduate of the School of Tourism and Hospitality Management, providing the Olpererhütte’s guests with culinary treats. The dining room, with its rustic wooden furnishings, crackling fireplaces and panoramic windows that frame awe-inspiring vistas of the surrounding peaks, provides the perfect backdrop for savoring Manuel's famous Kaiserschmarren. This fluffy shredded pancake, named after Austrian Emperor Kaiser Franz Joseph I, is a testament to Manuel's culinary prowess. From hearty stews, to traditional dishes like Tiroler Gröstl, the ingredients used in their dishes are sourced locally, creating a menu that showcases the best of the region.

While some opt for a day trip to Olpererhütte, stopping for a refreshing beer before descending the mountain, others seize the opportunity to spend the night in the clean and cozy bunks provided. Choosing an overnight stay, gives you the chance to witness a captivating world after sunset. The mountains are enveloped in darkness, and in the absence of light pollution, the sky displays a spectacle of millions of stars. This peaceful environment provides the ideal opportunity for stargazing or even practicing astrophotography, allowing you to make priceless memories under the celestial canopy.

Hiking to Olpererhütte is a remarkable alpine excursion into the Austrian Alps. The mountain hut's cozy refuge, mouthwatering cuisine, and the thrill of standing on that suspension bridge makes it an unforgettable journey. So pack your hiking boots and bring your spirit of adventure because the splendor of Olpererhütte awaits.