Alpe-Adria-Trail: Grossglockner to Mallnitz

Begin your journey amidst the splendor of Austria's highest peaks and the Pasterze Glacier, setting the stage for a trail steeped in natural wonders and historical mystique. Traverse past the emerald waters of Lake Sandersee, marvel at the grandeur of the Gößnitz Waterfall, and discover the tranquil Briccius Chapel, nestled in a powerful landscape said to heal. Your path unwinds through the Haritzersteig, leading to Heiligenblut, a village rich in gold mining lore and home to a relic of profound significance: a vial of Saint Briccius' blood, a testament to faith and legend woven into the fabric of this sacred land.

Embrace the harmonious blend of culture and nature as you depart from Heiligenblut. Journey through landscapes marked by historical gold mining sites and the architectural marvels of mountain farms. The trail offers a picturesque view of the Apriach mills, standing as a testament to agricultural resilience. Revel in the breathtaking sights of the Grossglockner and the majestic Jungfernsprung waterfall, culminating your day in Döllach, a nexus of alpine heritage and the guardianship of the Hohe Tauern National Park.

Ascend towards Marterle, home to Austria's highest sanctuary church, an emblem of devotion set against the backdrop of Carinthia's majestic peaks. This stage weaves through rivers, quaint villages, and dense forests, opening up to panoramic views of the Glockner range and the imposing Schober massif. It's a pilgrimage of spirit and scenery, leading to a place where faith and the grandeur of nature converge in serene harmony.

Descend from Marterle through enchanting alpine pastures and whispering forests to Stall im Mölltal, tracing the footsteps of pilgrims past. This journey, rich in tranquility and natural splendor, connects you deeply with the landscape and its historical roots in spirituality. The old pilgrimage paths offer a tangible link to the traditions that have shaped this land and its people, embodying the enduring allure of the Alpe Adria Trail.

Venture from Stall to Innerfragant, traversing paths that narrate stories of ancient castles, secluded schools, and bygone mining days. This leg invites you to explore the legacy of Wildegg Castle and the life of mountain farmers, before delving into the silent tales of copper miners along the "mine track". It's a stage that harmoniously blends the echoes of history with the timeless beauty of alpine pastures, offering a glimpse into the heart of the region's past and present.

Conclude your journey through the Möll Valley, ascending towards the Staneralm alpine pasture, where breathtaking vistas unfold, leading you to Mallnitz, the jewel of the National Park. This final leg celebrates the enduring charm of mountain farming and the allure of untouched landscapes, inviting reflection on the simplicity and richness of alpine life. It's a fitting end to a journey that not only traverses landscapes but also weaves through the tapestry of time, culture, and nature's unyielding beauty.