Imagine immersing yourselves in a forest that has remained almost unchanged since the Ice Age; then the Rauris Primeval Forest is exactly what you are looking for. In the heart of the Hohe Tauern National Park lies “Kolm Saigurn” at the end of the sunny Rauris Valley, a true jewel within the Hohe Tauern National Park. From there, you can embark on the most exciting and thrilling tours. Hikes for all levels and, of course, perfect family hikes for all ages. We can say that our Rauris Valley is the true insider tip for your summer holiday with us at Hotel Alpina in Rauris.
Air Quality of the Highest Level
Do you sometimes long to simply escape the hustle and bustle of the city?
Imagine: You exchange the stress of everyday life for fresh mountain air at an altitude of 1,600 meters. A place where silence becomes palpable, where you can breathe deeply and simply let yourselves go – in the midst of nature and full of tranquility. Perfect for truly switching off and recharging your batteries.
Our air in the Rauris Primeval Forest is characterized by the scent of resin, spruce, and Swiss pine, which act like essential oils in the air – calming and invigorating. Our grandparents always taught us – “Where moss grows in abundance and beard lichen hangs from the trees, the purest and highest air quality prevails.” This saying, which is probably known to every Rauris local, is certainly true and invites you to escape everyday life.
The Route
After a balanced breakfast with us at the 4-star Hotel Alpina in Rauris, you can start your journey by car or the free bus towards the valley head. From the toll booth at Bodenhaus, which is free for you with the included National Park Summer Card, it’s only a few more minutes to the Lenzanger parking lot. Right next to the parking lot, the ascent begins. Over roots and boardwalks, shaped by nature, it is an exciting path even for the little ones and a good foretaste of the true Rauris Primeval Forest.
Brief Stop
After about 30 minutes, you reach the high plateau with a breathtaking view towards the 3000-meter peaks and the Hoher Sonnblick. There you can enjoy the refreshment of a small stream that flows directly across the path. Before you continue into the Rauris Primeval Forest, we would recommend making a short stop at the Gainschnigg Alm. This alpine pasture is located directly beneath the panorama of the 3000-meter peaks. There you will find not only the best homemade farmer’s bread with various toppings, but also traditional “Bauernkrapfen” – a sweet, local treat topped with cranberries. The little hikers are also well catered for there, with a small children’s hut for playing that will make every child’s heart beat faster.
Rauris jungle
After the small refreshment, the entry into the deep Rauris Primeval Forest begins. Here you hike among centuries-old Swiss pines, mysterious bogs, and small ponds – shaped by the glaciers of the Ice Age. In this unique habitat with rare plants and animals. The best thing about the Rauris Primeval Forest: You are protected from the sun almost the entire way by the dense tree canopies. Since this area has long been part of the Hohe Tauern National Park, the Rauris Primeval Forest is almost untouched by humans and remains in its natural state.
The Educational Trail
Since 2014, the primeval forest educational trail in the Rauris Valley has been among the best in all of Austria. But what exactly does this look like? At the most interesting points along the trail, there are signs with interesting facts about the animals, waters, plants, and trees. Here too, the little ones have been considered; you can always find small observation tasks for children. Along the educational trail, you can also find the forest museum. In the small hut, you can expand your knowledge considerably. If this is not enough for you, you are also welcome to book a guided hike with a ranger. From them, you often gain insights that cannot be found in any book.
Hiking with Children
As already mentioned, this hike is particularly child-friendly, but why? For children, the tour is very interesting, especially since you don’t just walk along a road but climb over roots, boardwalks, and stones. However, the hike through the Rauris Primeval Forest is not only suitable for children but also for people of all ages, as the route is easy to navigate. For hiking enthusiasts, the tour is “a true must,” as it’s not just about reaching a destination but about exploring a history spanning millennia.
The History of our Rauris Primeval Forest
Over 10,000 years ago, during the Ice Age, our valley was filled by a gigantic glacier. As it slowly began to melt, a so-called rockslide occurred at the end of the valley. Rocks tumbled into the valley and buried it. Due to the natural dam, bogs formed over millennia – a completely unique ecosystem. Today, the Rauris Primeval Forest is considered a true jewel of the Hohe Tauern National Park.
Winding down the Day
For this route, you will be on the go for approximately 2-3 hours. But what happens next? We would recommend that you spend the afternoon with us at the hotel after a rather strenuous morning. Lying by our outdoor pool in the bright sunshine, eating an ice cream, and enjoying your holiday to the fullest.
NATURE * ACTIVE * ENJOYMENT
Get to know the Rauris Primeval Forest yourself and visit us in the beautiful Rauris Valley. Book your next summer and autumn adventure with us now. We are very much looking forward to welcoming you!
