Schütt Nature Reserve - Some sun hitting the green trees in the woods near Stuttgart in southern Germany, black forest.
1 / 10

Schütt Nature Reserve

4.8
·3k reviews·Villach, Austria

A stunning mountain nature reserve offering hiking, cycling, and winter sports, featuring a seasonal Alpine garden and rustic inns.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

June-August mornings

Alpine garden in bloom, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Schütt Nature Reserve - Some sun hitting the green trees in the woods near Stuttgart in southern Germany, black forest.

Schütt Nature Reserve

Best Time

June-August mornings

Alpine garden in bloom, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A stunning mountain nature reserve offering hiking, cycling, and winter sports, featuring a seasonal Alpine garden and rustic inns.

4.8
(3k reviews)

"Huge beautiful mountain scenery and really fresh air make the Alpine road toll truly worthy."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes

Gravel paths can be tough on paws and feet. Prioritize comfort and grip for your adventure.

⏰ Arrive Early for Full Day

Maximize your time for hiking, gardens, and dining. Avoid missing out on key attractions.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Spectacular Alpine Garden

Spectacular Alpine Garden

Summit area

A vibrant display of mountain flora, open only in summer. A must-see for nature lovers.

Panoramic Mountain Views

Panoramic Mountain Views

Summit and various viewpoints

Breathtaking vistas of the surrounding peaks and valleys. Perfect for photography and soaking in nature.

Challenging Hiking Trails

Challenging Hiking Trails

Throughout the reserve

Diverse trails for all levels, offering rewarding climbs and stunning scenery.

Sky Bridge Adventure

Sky Bridge Adventure

Summit area

An exhilarating walk offering unique perspectives and thrilling heights.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything for Alpine Gardens

The stunning Alpine garden is only open for a short window: June, July, and August. Plan your visit during these months to experience its full beauty. Arrive early to maximize your time for hiking and enjoying the views.

Footwear and Furry Friends

Comfortable hiking shoes are a must for exploring the trails. Be mindful of the terrain, as gravel paths can be tough on paws. Some visitors have had to carry their dogs due to paw injuries, so consider this if bringing a pet.

Best Times

When
June-August mornings
Why
Alpine garden in bloom, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Early September afternoons
Why
Pleasant temperatures, stunning views
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays, early start
Why
Avoid weekend rush, maximize day
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

👟 Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes

Gravel paths can be tough on paws and feet. Prioritize comfort and grip for your adventure. Reddit

⏰ Arrive Early for Full Day

Maximize your time for hiking, gardens, and dining. Avoid missing out on key attractions. Reddit

🚗 Alpine Road Toll Worth It

The €20 toll for the Alpine road offers access to incredible scenery and viewpoints. Reddit

🐶 Pet Paw Care

Be cautious with dogs on gravel. Some visitors had to carry injured pets. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes

Gravel paths can be tough on paws and feet. Prioritize comfort and grip for your adventure. Reddit

⏰ Arrive Early for Full Day

Maximize your time for hiking, gardens, and dining. Avoid missing out on key attractions. Reddit

🚗 Alpine Road Toll Worth It

The €20 toll for the Alpine road offers access to incredible scenery and viewpoints. Reddit

🐶 Pet Paw Care

Be cautious with dogs on gravel. Some visitors had to carry injured pets. Reddit

☀️ Check Weather Forecast

Conditions can change quickly; be prepared for wind and even snow at higher elevations. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(3k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the spectacular mountain scenery and rewarding hiking trails at Schütt Nature Reserve. The Alpine garden is a seasonal highlight, and the Alpenstrasse offers incredible views. Some note the entry fee and the need for sturdy footwear, especially for pets on gravel paths.

"As usual, a great hiking trip.
That day it was windy on top, and some snow.
All the rest of the track is challenging and pleasant, with a sunny day (21 °C).
And yes, near the parking lot, the restaurant has great food.
Enjoy!"

Morariu Horia Iancu

"A great place for the whole family to visit. I advise you to take care of the shoes. We reached the top by Alpenstrasse by car with stops at the marked places. We took photos and drove on. At the final 11 stop, we regained our strength after having a good meal in an excellent restaurant. We could not climb to the top, although a 5-year-old child calmly endured the path. We reached the observation deck only. But it was painful for the dog to walk on the gravel. I even had to carry her back in my arms, she injured her paw. But in general, I strongly advise you to visit the place."

Roman Korniushin

"When you love special gardens and you’re not afraid of heights ;-) this is a beautiful place to visit when the weather is nice. It’s only open 3 months of the year. June, July and August. I would drive to the top, early as you can spend the whole day easily there with hiking…. Sitting in the restaurant and visiting the Alpine garden.

Also the sky bridge is amazing.

Below some pictures we took yesterday. Sadly we drove up late (2 pm) and had not enough time for a hike on the top which was a shame.
So my advice: start at 10 am and enjoy the whole day!"

Royal Mangalitsa

What People Like

Spectacular mountain views
Rewarding hiking trails
Beautiful Alpine garden

What People Dislike

Entry fee
Gravel paths for pets

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The most scenic route is via the Alpenstrasse, which has a toll of approximately €20. You can drive up with stops at marked viewpoints. Reddit

Yes, parking is available near the entrance and at various points along the Alpenstrasse. Arriving early is recommended, especially on weekends. Reddit

Information on public transport access is limited in user reviews. Driving via the Alpenstrasse is the most commonly mentioned method. Reddit+1

Hiking is the primary way to explore. The reserve offers various trails suitable for different fitness levels. Reddit

The Alpenstrasse is the main road that takes you up into the reserve, with designated stops for photos and access to attractions. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the Alpine road costs around €20, which is considered worthwhile by visitors for the access it provides. Reddit

The Alpine garden is specifically open only during June, July, and August. General access for hiking and other activities may vary, so it's best to check current operating hours. Reddit

Advance booking information is not frequently mentioned. Visitors typically pay the toll for the Alpine road upon arrival. Reddit

The primary cost mentioned is the toll for the Alpine road. The various hikes within the reserve are generally included with this access. Reddit

The €20 fee is for access via the Alpine road, suggesting it's likely per vehicle. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Reviews highlight challenging and pleasant trails with spectacular views. Specific trail names aren't detailed, but the variety caters to different hikers. Reddit

Don't miss the Alpine garden (open June-August) and the Sky Bridge for unique perspectives. The reserve offers stunning mountain scenery. Reddit

Yes, it's considered great for the whole family. A 5-year-old child could manage parts of the path, though some areas might be challenging. Reddit

Dogs are allowed, but be cautious. Gravel paths can injure paws, and some visitors had to carry their dogs. Reddit

The views are spectacular and breathtaking, offering huge mountain scenery and fresh air. Reddit+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there's a restaurant near the parking lot that serves great food and is excellent for refueling after a hike. Reddit

Reviews mention good food and excellent meals, suggesting hearty, possibly traditional alpine cuisine. Reddit+1

While not explicitly stated as cheap, visitors found the food excellent and a good way to regain strength, implying value for money. Reddit+1

Picnic options aren't mentioned, but with a good restaurant available, it's a convenient option for many visitors. Reddit

The main dining option mentioned is a restaurant, which seems to cater to visitors looking for a substantial meal. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Anywhere with a view! The summit, viewpoints along the Alpenstrasse, and the Alpine garden offer incredible photo opportunities. Reddit+1

Early mornings or late afternoons can offer softer light and fewer crowds, enhancing the photographic experience. Reddit

The Sky Bridge provides a unique angle, and the Alpine garden offers colorful subjects. The vast mountain landscapes are the main draw. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive mountain scenery. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife or distant peaks. TikTok

Drone regulations vary by region and park. It's advisable to check local rules before flying a drone to avoid penalties. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Schütt Nature Reserve is a fantastic destination for families. It's described as a great place for the whole family to visit, with a 5-year-old child reportedly handling the paths well. Reddit While some trails might be challenging, there are accessible areas and observation decks. The drive up the Alpenstrasse offers scenic stops that can keep younger ones entertained. Reddit

Pack comfortable shoes for everyone, as the terrain can be uneven. Consider bringing a carrier for very young children or if your pet needs assistance on gravel paths. Reddit The restaurant offers a good spot to rest and refuel, making it easier to manage a day out with kids. The open space and stunning views provide a memorable experience for all ages.

🚶‍♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts

For avid hikers, Schütt Nature Reserve offers rewarding and challenging trails with unparalleled mountain scenery. The reserve is perfect for those who appreciate spectacular views and fresh alpine air. Reddit+1 Plan for a full day to explore the various routes and take advantage of the viewpoints. Reddit

Don't miss the Alpine garden if you're visiting between June and August for a unique botanical experience. Reddit The Sky Bridge also provides an exhilarating perspective for those seeking a bit of adventure. Reddit Remember to wear appropriate hiking footwear as some paths are gravelly. Reddit

📸 Photographers

Schütt Nature Reserve is a dream for photographers, offering breathtaking mountain vistas and unique natural features. The Alpenstrasse itself provides numerous pull-offs with stunning backdrops for your shots. Reddit Capture the expansive landscapes, the vibrant colors of the Alpine garden (seasonal), and the dramatic angles from the Sky Bridge. Reddit

Aim for early morning or late afternoon for the best light, which can enhance the dramatic mountain scenery. Reddit Consider bringing a wide-angle lens to capture the vastness of the panoramas. TikTok While drone photography is possible, always check local regulations beforehand. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating the Alpenstrasse

The Alpenstrasse is the primary artery into Schütt Nature Reserve, offering a scenic drive with numerous pull-offs for breathtaking views. This toll road, costing around €20, is considered well worth the price by visitors for the unparalleled access it provides to the heart of the reserve. Reddit Plan to drive up early, especially if you intend to spend the whole day exploring, as it allows you to make stops at your leisure and avoid the busiest periods. Reddit

Along the Alpenstrasse, you'll find designated marked places where you can stop to take photos, enjoy the fresh mountain air, and begin your hikes. Some of these stops are conveniently located near the restaurant, offering a perfect spot to refuel before or after your adventures. Reddit+1 The road itself is part of the experience, winding through stunning mountain landscapes and providing a gradual ascent to the higher elevations of the reserve. Reddit

Be aware that while the road is generally well-maintained, conditions can change, especially outside the peak summer months. Always check local advisories if traveling during shoulder seasons. The drive is an integral part of the Schütt Nature Reserve experience, setting the stage for the natural beauty that awaits.

The Enchanting Alpine Garden

For those with a love for unique flora, the Alpine garden at Schütt Nature Reserve is a seasonal gem. It's crucial to note that this garden is only open for a limited time each year, typically from June through August. Reddit During these months, visitors can wander through a carefully curated collection of mountain plants, showcasing the resilience and beauty of alpine vegetation. It's a tranquil spot that offers a different kind of natural wonder compared to the grand mountain vistas.

Many visitors recommend dedicating ample time to explore the garden, especially if you're visiting during its open season. Combining a visit to the garden with a hike or a meal at the nearby restaurant makes for a well-rounded day. Reddit+1 The garden provides a more intimate encounter with the mountain ecosystem, highlighting the smaller, yet equally fascinating, botanical life that thrives at these altitudes. Experiencing the vibrant colors and delicate forms of the alpine flowers is a highlight for many who visit during the summer months. Reddit

Remember to check the exact opening dates for the Alpine garden each year, as they can be subject to weather conditions. Its short season makes it a special attraction that requires careful planning to witness.

Hiking and Trail Considerations

Schütt Nature Reserve is a hiker's paradise, offering a variety of trails that cater to different fitness levels. Visitors consistently praise the challenging and pleasant nature of the hikes, with the reward of spectacular views at every turn. Reddit The terrain can vary, with some paths featuring gravel, which is important to consider for footwear. Reddit If you're planning an extensive hike, ensure you have adequate water and snacks, although a restaurant is conveniently located for refueling. Reddit

When choosing a trail, consider the time you have available. Some visitors regretted not having enough time for a full hike due to arriving late in the day. Reddit Starting your day early is highly recommended to fully immerse yourself in the hiking experience and enjoy the reserve at a relaxed pace. Reddit The trails are well-integrated with the natural landscape, allowing for an authentic mountain trekking experience. Feeling the fresh air and being surrounded by huge mountain scenery is a common sentiment among reviewers. Reddit

For those with pets, be mindful of the gravel paths, as they can be hard on paws. Some dogs have experienced injuries, necessitating carrying them back. Reddit This highlights the importance of appropriate gear and awareness of your pet's comfort and safety while exploring the trails.

You may also like