Hocheck-Schutzhaus
1.7
1,027m
Lower Austria, Austria
About
Hocheck-Schutzhaus sits at 1,027m in the Göstling Alps of Lower Austria, above the Ötscher massif. Reach it from Lackenhof am Ötscher via the marked trail along the Große Ötscher valley. The hike takes 2.5 hours and gains 500m steadily through mixed forest. The hut sits just below the Hocheck saddle on the ridge between Ötscher and Heukuppe, making it a natural waypoint for ridge traverses or summit pushes in either direction. The location works well for day walkers exploring the Ötscher plateau as well as multi-day tours linking into the broader Ybbstaler Alps network.
The OeTK-managed hut offers basic mountain shelter rather than resort comfort. The hut has around 40 bed places across simple dormitory rooms and a handful of private rooms. The kitchen serves standard hut fare: schnitzel, goulash, and vegetable dishes. Beer and soft drinks are available. There is a small wood stove for winter ambiance. Open year-round, though February and March see reduced hours—check ahead. Mobile signal is patchy but improving.
Book direct by phone or email through the OeTK. July and August attract weekend crowds; aim to call by Thursday for weekend stays. Weekday visits in shoulder seasons (May, June, September, October) are rarely full. The hut accepts cash only—no card payments. Park at the Lackenhof trailhead or near the Ötscher thermal baths complex, both free.
The OeTK-managed hut offers basic mountain shelter rather than resort comfort. The hut has around 40 bed places across simple dormitory rooms and a handful of private rooms. The kitchen serves standard hut fare: schnitzel, goulash, and vegetable dishes. Beer and soft drinks are available. There is a small wood stove for winter ambiance. Open year-round, though February and March see reduced hours—check ahead. Mobile signal is patchy but improving.
Book direct by phone or email through the OeTK. July and August attract weekend crowds; aim to call by Thursday for weekend stays. Weekday visits in shoulder seasons (May, June, September, October) are rarely full. The hut accepts cash only—no card payments. Park at the Lackenhof trailhead or near the Ötscher thermal baths complex, both free.
Frequently Asked Questions
Book 2–3 months ahead for July and August; shoulder seasons (June, September) need less lead time.
Open May to October, staffed daily during peak season (June to September).
Start from Lackenhof am Ötscher and follow the marked trail up the Große Ötscher valley; the hike takes 2.5 hours and climbs 500m through forest to the saddle below Hocheck.
Expect basic mountain-hut meals, dormitory beds, and a small bar; shower facilities are limited or none.
Yes—the steady 2.5-hour approach is well-marked and not technical, making it good for hill walkers; it's also ideal for families planning day walks on the Ötscher plateau.
Quick Facts
- Managing club
- OeTK
- Season
- –
- Total
- Dormitory
- Emergency
- Private rooms
Facilities
Meals served
Contact & Booking
- Phone
- Website
- http://hocheck.schutz.haus