Beautiful panoramic views from the Untersberg mountain in Salzburg

Untersberg mountain

Its close proximity to the city of Salzburg (around 16 kilometres) means that the Untersberg mountain is very popular with tourists and locals alike. The mountain has a number of peaks, the highest being the Berchtesgaden Hochthron at 1,973 metres. A popular peak for visitors taking the cable car ride is the Salzburger Hochthron at 1,853 metres. While in Austria, we set aside half a day to explore Untersberg. We drove down from Flachau to St.Leonhard (Gartenau). This is where the Untersberg cable car starts from. There is ample parking available on the spot if you are driving to the place. Alternatively, you can also reach the Untersberg lift on public transportation by catching the No. 25 bus from Salzburg and getting off at the 'Grödig Untersbergbahn' stop.

The Untersberg excursion is included in the Salzburg Card (one-time free ride and quick access without having to stand in the queue) and so we did not have to purchase the tickets. Adult tickets normally cost € 23.50 for ascent and descent while for children (6-14 years) tickets are priced at € 11.50.

Gondola ride

The Untersbergbahn cable car (there are two of them) operates every half hour, so it is not a long wait to get to the Geiereck spur at 1,776 metres. The journey takes around 10 minutes but it offers mesmerising views. As the cable car inches up, you feel like you are really close to the steep edges of the mountain (at some points of the journey) and then there are sheer drops. The illusion of being very close and the sudden drop makes it very dramatic. This is particularly noticeable when you reach the first pylon (about halfway into the journey). We could hear squeals of delight and wonderment in the cable car for most of the journey.

Tip: Keep your video camera ready for the awesome ride and views.

When we arrived at the Geiereck mountain station, we were awestruck by the amazing views. Luckily for us, it was a clear day and we could see for miles in all directions. It was spectacular - beautiful views of Salzburg city, the Rosittental deep and a couple of lakes scattered in between. The Alpine scenery was very fascinating.

Having spent some time taking in the mountain views, we continued ahead as there were a number of hiking routes to explore. There were a couple of peaks within easy reach and we hiked those. The paths were tricky and steep at some places but we were rewarded with excellent views. We also saw some people hiking up the mountain instead of taking the cable car! Whichever way you choose to go with, Untersberg is great. If you are in Salzburg make sure to include Untersberg on your itinerary.

We spent half a day here (although you can easily spend the entire day) and then headed to Hellbrunn Palace, another must visit while in Salzburg.

Useful information

Untersbergbahn | Dr.-Friedrich-Oedl-Weg 2, 5083 Gartenau
Phone | +436246 72477

2017 opening times | Open all year except April 18-28 and October 23-December 15. However, do check with Untersberg office before travelling for opening times and weather conditions.

Handy tips

1. It can be windy and cooler than the base at the top, so carry a jacket.
2. If you plan to hike, good walking/hiking shoes are recommended. Carry some snacks and water as well.
3. There are a couple of cafes on the top, so you can reward yourself with some warm, comforting food after your hike.
4. Check the weather before you go, if it is too cloudy you may not be able to see much.