Reisalpen Schutzhaus

Reisalpen Schutzhaus sits at 1,391m on the Reisalpen plateau in Lower Austria, about 2.5 hours hiking from the village of Gaming. The standard approach follows well-marked trails through beech forest to open grassland. Most hikers approach from the north via Lackenhof or from the south via Gaming; both routes offer steady gradients without technical difficulty. The hut sits on a quiet hiking plateau away from major Alpine passes, making it a good base for day walks rather than a transit point.

The OeTK manages this mountain hut with 50 beds across simple dormitory rooms. Meals focus on hearty Austrian fare—expect Kaiserschmarrn, Erdäpfelpuffer, and solid lunches for day hikers. Water comes from the hut's own spring. The building itself dates to the 1980s and maintains the no-frills comfort typical of OeTK huts in lower-lying regions. The hut stays open year-round, though winter access depends on snow conditions and avalanche risk in approach gullies—contact ahead if visiting November through March.

Book at least 4 weeks ahead for summer weekends (June–September). The hut fills regularly with Austrian hikers on Saturdays and Sundays. Contact the hut directly by phone or through the OeTK website; email responses are slower. Arrive by early afternoon to secure a good bunk. The hut operates a small shop selling snacks and basic supplies, but bring your own first aid kit and sun protection. Solo hikers and small groups often find space on short notice outside school holidays.