The best walks and hikes around Brand-Laaben
4.5
(1706)
8,872
hikers
38
hikes
Hiking around Brand-Laaben, nestled within the Vienna Woods, offers diverse landscapes and natural features. The region is characterized by its varied terrain, including the Schöpfl, which at 893 meters is the highest elevation in the Vienna Woods, and the Gföhlberg. Trails often lead through woodlands, offering panoramic views of the Laabental valley and extending to the Limestone Alps on clear days. This area provides a mix of accessible paths and more demanding routes, catering to different hiking preferences.
Best hiking trails in Brand-Laaben
- The most popular hiking route is WIR Circular Hiking Trail, a difficult 14.0 miles (22.5 km) trail that takes about 7 hours to complete, traversing both the Schöpfl and Gföhlberg.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Schöpfl Mountain Hut – Summit cross on Schöpfl loop from Forsthof, a moderate 3.5 miles (5.6 km) path. This route leads to the Schöpfl summit, offering views and a stop at the Schöpfl refuge.
- Local hikers also love the Summit cross on Schöpfl – Matras-Warte on the Schöpfl loop from Brand-Laaben, a 6.3 miles (10.2 km) trail leading through the Schöpfl area to the Matraswarte observation tower, often completed in about 3 hours 30 minutes.
- Hiking around Brand-Laaben is defined by its forested hills, prominent peaks like the Schöpfl and Gföhlberg, and scenic valleys. The network offers options for various ability levels, from easy strolls to challenging ascents.
- The routes in Brand-Laaben are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 300 reviews. More than 2,000 hikers have used komoot to explore Brand-Laaben's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 23, 2026
4.9
(25)
106
hikers
22.5km
06:59
820m
820m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.3
(31)
168
hikers
5.40km
01:54
310m
310m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.4
(18)
92
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(13)
56
hikers
7.81km
02:22
250m
250m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.1
(9)
29
hikers
7.88km
02:28
310m
310m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
In the first phase, you clamber over stones between the windings of a small stream (no, it wasn't a rainy day…), then a slippery steep section follows, where you probably move most safely on all fours, followed by a few more unpleasant spots, and then a traverse along the slope that is as long as it is boring.
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The panoramic view from the steel tower of the former Kaiser Franz Joseph Warte and today's Franz Eduard Matras Warte still impresses. In a work published by Crown Prince Rudolf about the Austro-Hungarian Monarchy, the view is described so aptly that it still entices people to tour the mountain today. The Leopold-Figl-Observatorium is within sight. Only a few minutes' walk away, the Schöpfl-Schutzhaus of the ÖTK invites you to linger. In 1865, the Imperial Royal Forestry Authority built a viewing platform on the highest point of the Schöpfl at 893 meters. It originally served as weather protection for the still existing survey marker. Due to the good view, the platform quickly developed into a popular excursion destination. Source: https://schutz.haus/de/poi/aussichtsturm/matraswarte/13538804/
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Detour to drink spring water
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The Schöpfl-Schutzhaus has been run by Auguste Rosenberger since January 2024. It is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, but is open from sunrise to sunset on all other days. Guests can look forward to a cozy atmosphere and a good selection of food.
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The Matraswarte is a 17-meter-high steel structure that adorns the summit of the Schöpfl, the highest elevation in the Vienna Woods. It stands on the border of the communities of Altenmarkt an der Triesting and Brand-Laaben and is the highest structure in the Vienna Woods. The observation tower offers a breathtaking panoramic view that stretches from Vienna's city center in the northeast to the Limestone Alps in the south. The climb to the Matraswarte is straightforward, as numerous hiking trails lead to the summit, making the place a popular destination for hikers of all ages. The panoramic view, which includes the Vienna Woods, the Alpine foothills and the Schneeberg, is a true highlight of the hike.
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The Schöpfl, as the highest mountain in the Vienna Woods, offers an ideal combination of nature experience and impressive views. The climb to the Matraswarte is particularly worthwhile, from which a spectacular 360° panorama stretches - from Vienna across the Tullnerfeld to the Schneeberg and Ötscher. After the hike, the Schöpflhütte invites you to stop for a cozy break. The well-marked paths make the climb a pleasant experience, even for less experienced hikers. A detour to the Mitterschöpfl and the Leopold Figl Observatory rounds off the tour with beautiful natural impressions.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in Brand-Laaben?
Brand-Laaben offers a wide selection of hiking trails, with over 35 routes to explore. These range from easy strolls to more challenging ascents, catering to various fitness levels.
What kind of terrain can I expect when hiking in Brand-Laaben?
The region is characterized by its diverse landscapes, including forested hills and prominent peaks like the Schöpfl and Gföhlberg. You'll find a variety of paths, from easily accessible routes to more demanding trails that require good fitness and sure-footedness.
Are there any family-friendly hiking options in Brand-Laaben?
Yes, Brand-Laaben has several easy routes suitable for families. For instance, the View of Ötscher – Gföhlberg Hut loop from Stollberg is an easy 4.7 km path that offers a pleasant outdoor experience for all ages.
Where can I find panoramic views during my hike?
For breathtaking panoramic views, head to the Matraswarte observation tower on the Schöpfl. From here, you can see from Vienna's city center to the Limestone Alps, including the Vienna Woods and the Laabental valley. A great route to reach it is the Summit cross on Schöpfl – Matras-Warte on the Schöpfl loop from Brand-Laaben.
Are there any circular hiking routes in Brand-Laaben?
Yes, circular routes are a popular way to explore the area. A notable challenging option is the WIR Circular Hiking Trail, which is 22.5 km long and traverses both the Schöpfl and Gföhlberg.
What are some interesting landmarks or attractions to see along the trails?
Hikers can discover several interesting points of interest. The Summit cross on Schöpfl is a popular destination, and the historic Türkenstein memorial stone also offers a glimpse into the region's past. You might also encounter the Druidenstein Rock Needle.
Are there mountain huts or refuges available for hikers?
Yes, the region features several mountain huts where hikers can take a break. The popular Schöpfl Mountain Hut is conveniently located near the Matraswarte, and the Gföhlberg Hut is another option in the vicinity.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Brand-Laaben?
The routes in Brand-Laaben are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 300 reviews. Hikers often praise the quiet woodlands, the impressive views from the peaks, and the well-marked paths.
Can I hike to the highest point in the Vienna Woods from Brand-Laaben?
Yes, the Schöpfl, at 893 meters, is the highest elevation in the Vienna Woods and is accessible from Brand-Laaben. Many trails lead to its summit, offering a rewarding experience. A moderate route to the summit is the Schöpfl Mountain Hut – Summit cross on Schöpfl loop from Forsthof.
Are there any routes that include the Gföhlberg summit?
Yes, the Gföhlberg is another significant peak in the region featured in several hiking routes. For a longer, moderate challenge that includes the Gföhlberg summit, consider the Gföhlberg Summit – Gföhlberg Hut loop from Brand-Laaben.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Brand-Laaben?
Brand-Laaben is enjoyable for hiking throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful foliage, while summer provides lush green landscapes. Winter hiking is also possible, though some trails may require appropriate gear for snow and ice.
Most popular routes around Brand-Laaben
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