Hauptspeicher Kölnbrein, a region in Carinthia, Austria, is situated within the Hohe Tauern National Park. This area is characterized by dramatic alpine landscapes, featuring the prominent Kölnbrein Dam and the turquoise Kölnbrein Reservoir. The Malta High Alpine Road provides access through this mountainous terrain, making it suitable for several sports like hiking, mountaineering, mountain biking, and touring cycling.
Hauptspeicher Kölnbrein offers a variety of routes for outdoor enthusiasts. More than 35,000 visitors have shared…
39
Routes
4.8
(747)
Average rating
4798
People visited

4.8
(85)
456
hikers
11.4km
03:33
420m
420m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

4.8
(70)
291
hikers
5.71km
02:54
470m
470m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.

4.7
(22)
139
hikers
21.8km
08:23
970m
970m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.

4.8
(12)
65
hikers
6.92km
03:02
640m
640m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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4.0
(1)
14
riders
7.55km
01:45
450m
450m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

4.9
(11)
82
riders
16.9km
01:44
410m
410m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

4.8
(8)
30
riders
18.4km
02:03
660m
650m
Hard mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.

4.4
(5)
14
riders
18.4km
02:05
720m
720m
Hard mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.
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5.0
(5)
38
hikers
17.1km
08:29
1,480m
1,480m
Hard mountaineering route. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.

5.0
(12)
123
hikers
6.20km
03:53
610m
610m
Hard mountaineering route. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.

5.0
(2)
43
hikers
15.7km
07:48
1,130m
1,120m
Hard mountaineering route. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.

4.5
(2)
15
hikers
16.9km
04:51
420m
410m
Moderate mountaineering route. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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4.9
(18)
174
riders
49.1km
03:42
1,190m
1,190m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

4.9
(11)
115
riders
15.8km
01:43
400m
400m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

5.0
(2)
45
riders
52.2km
04:40
1,510m
1,510m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

9
riders
8.82km
00:54
200m
200m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Hauptspeicher Kölnbrein offers a range of outdoor activities including hiking, mountaineering, mountain biking, and touring cycling. The region is situated within the Hohe Tauern National Park, providing diverse terrain for various skill levels. More than 35,000 visitors have explored the area, with routes averaging 4.69 out of 5 stars.
Yes, Hauptspeicher Kölnbrein features trails suitable for beginners and those seeking easier walks. These include leisurely routes around the Kölnbrein Reservoir. Specific options can be found in the guide Easy hikes around Hauptspeicher Kölnbrein.
Family-friendly hiking options are available in Hauptspeicher Kölnbrein, offering accessible routes for all ages. These trails often feature scenic views and manageable distances. Detailed information is provided in the guide Family-friendly hikes around Hauptspeicher Kölnbrein.
The region offers a diverse network of hiking trails, from leisurely walks around the Kölnbrein Reservoir to challenging high-alpine tours. Routes can lead to three-thousand-meter peaks like the Hochalmspitze. Further details on the variety of trails are available in the guide Hiking around Hauptspeicher Kölnbrein.
The Malta Valley, near Hauptspeicher Kölnbrein, is known for its climbing opportunities, including various via ferratas, bouldering, and alpine climbing routes. A practice via ferrata called "Damm High" is located directly below the Berghotel Malta. More information can be found in the guide Mountain Hikes around Hauptspeicher Kölnbrein.
Yes, mountain bikers can find a variety of routes within the Hohe Tauern National Park, offering views of the Kölnbrein Dam and the Maltatal's waterfalls. Trails range from easy loops around the reservoir to more demanding rides. Consult the guide MTB Trails around Hauptspeicher Kölnbrein for specific routes.
The Malta High Alpine Road (Malta Hochalmstraße) is a popular route for touring cyclists. This 8.9-mile (14.4 km) road features hairpin bends and rock tunnels, leading directly to Austria's highest dam. Cyclists should ensure they have good lighting for the unlit tunnels. The guide Cycling around Hauptspeicher Kölnbrein provides more details.
Key attractions include the Kölnbreinsperre (Kölnbrein Dam), Austria's highest dam, and the turquoise Kölnbrein Reservoir. The Malta High Alpine Road offers scenic views, and the Airwalk Viewing Platform provides panoramic perspectives. The VERBUND Energiewelt Malta exhibition offers insights into the dam's construction.
Access to Hauptspeicher Kölnbrein is possible via public transport, with bus stations serving as starting points for various hikes. Information on routes accessible from these stations can be found in the guide Hikes from bus stations around Hauptspeicher Kölnbrein.
Generally, dogs are permitted on trails in the Hohe Tauern National Park, including around Hauptspeicher Kölnbrein. It is advisable to keep dogs on a leash, especially in sensitive wildlife areas or near grazing livestock. Always check local regulations for any specific restrictions.
The best season for hiking in Hauptspeicher Kölnbrein is typically from late spring to early autumn, when trails are clear of snow and weather conditions are most favorable. High-alpine routes are generally accessible during the summer months. Some lower elevation trails may be suitable in shoulder seasons.
Yes, several mountain huts, such as the Osnabrücker Hütte and Kattowitzer Hütte, offer opportunities for rest and regional cuisine. The Berghotel Malta, located directly at the dam, also provides culinary options and serves as a starting point for exploration. The Kölnbreinstüberl is another option for refreshments.
The Kölnbrein Dam (Kölnbreinsperre) is Austria's highest dam, standing 656 feet (200 meters) tall and stretching 2,054 feet (626 meters) long. It is a significant engineering marvel and forms the large Kölnbrein Reservoir. The dam plays a crucial role in power generation and is a prominent landmark in the region.

