Top 6 Gorges around Mortantsch

The gorges around Mortantsch are primarily known for the Raabklamm Nature Reserve, which is Austria's longest continuous gorge, stretching for 17 kilometers. It offers an untouched and romantic character with rushing water, steep rock faces, and diverse ecosystems. The area is also a Natura 2000 protected site, home to numerous rare animal and plant species.

You can expect to see a variety of natural features, including dramatic gorges, steep cliffs, and wild mountain streams. The Raabklamm Nature Reserve features boardwalks, alder floodplains, and old mills. You'll also find forests and riverine environments, which are habitats for diverse flora and fauna, including bats, endangered birds, dippers, and yellow-bellied toads.

Yes, the Bärental Valley is a local recreation area that is particularly family-friendly. It offers pleasant cycling and walking paths past meadows, through forests, and along the Wünschbach and Raab rivers. The main Raabklamm also has sections that are suitable for all ages, though some short parts may require surefootedness.

Beyond exploring the gorges themselves, the Mortantsch area offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous easy hiking trails, as well as options for mountain biking and gravel biking. The Bärental Valley is ideal for leisurely cycling.

The gorges are beautiful throughout the warmer months. Spring and summer are particularly appealing, as the Kleine Raabklamm is known for its lush vegetation during these seasons. On hot summer days, the fresh, clear mountain water of the Raab provides a cooling respite. For trails like Jägersteig, Weiz Gorge, it's recommended to visit in good weather due to demanding sections.

Yes, some sections of the gorges, particularly within the Raabklamm Nature Reserve, feature rope protection. While not overly difficult, they require surefootedness. The Jägersteig, Weiz Gorge is described as a demanding ascent that rewards with great views, requiring a head for heights in some parts.

The Raabklamm Nature Reserve is a Natura 2000 protected area, recognized for its priority animal and plant species. It's a vital habitat for numerous rare species, including various bats, endangered birds, dippers, and yellow-bellied toads. Visitors should be mindful of these sensitive ecosystems, especially around spawning grounds for amphibians in spring.

While not directly within the main Raabklamm, the Jägersteig, Weiz Gorge is associated with a cave. Additionally, the Katerloch Cave, located near Dürntal, is a notable natural attraction in the region, famous for being Austria's richest in stalactites and containing cave bear findings.

Visitors frequently praise the untouched and romantic character of the gorges, particularly the Raabklamm Nature Reserve. They appreciate the moments of relaxation and tranquility amidst nature, the varied hiking experience along the stream bed, and the beautiful impressions from demanding ascents like the Jägersteig. The lush vegetation in spring and summer is also a highlight.

Yes, along both the Great and Small Raabklamm, you can find local inns (known as Raabklamm-Wirte) that offer regional specialties. These provide an opportunity to enjoy local cuisine after exploring the natural beauty of the area.

After rain, some sections of the gorges, particularly within the Raabklamm Nature Reserve, can become muddy and slippery. It's advisable to wear appropriate footwear and exercise caution during these conditions.