Dobratsch - west ascent

The start of the route is at the parking lot after the last farm in Hermsberg. From the parking lot, which is located in the middle of the forest, we follow the forest road uphill. Soon we find the first signposts "Dobratsch summit", shortly after we leave the forest road following the markings and continue hiking on a beautiful path with only moderate incline.

At about 1,200 m we reach a crossroads. From the left, the ascent path from Bleiberg-Kreuth joins our ascent route via the so-called gate. The path then becomes significantly steeper and climbs over a ridge. At about 1,500 m we cross the slope to the right and after climbing over a fence we enter a beautiful, bright larch forest.

The path leads up through this in switchbacks until reaching a belt of dwarf pines. Shortly afterward, we cross the slope to the right (southeast) to the so-called Kuhriegel, which extends from Dobratsch to the south. Over this, we climb the last approximately 180 vertical meters to the summit. The breathtaking view from the summit then rewards the long climb through the forest.

The descent is made via the ascent route. In good weather, a short detour to the unattended Alplhütte at 1,580 m is recommended.

Mountain boots with profile sole, backpack, functional underwear, rainwear, trekking poles, food and drink, maps, first aid kit, and mobile phone.

The routes on the Dobratsch are fundamentally alpine hiking routes with associated alpine dangers (sudden weather changes, disorientation due to fog, risk of thunderstorms, cold snap, rockfall, etc.).

From Villach main train station take the bus to Bad Bleiberg Kreuth or further to the Graben stop.

Here is the timetable information.

Here is the railway shuttle Carinthia.

 Region Villach Tourism

 +43 4242 42000

 www.visitvillach.at