Gerstreitalm
2.9About
Gerstreitalm sits at 1,575m in the Gerstrei valley south of Lofer in the Salzburg Alps. Reach it from the village of Lofer via the Gerstreibach gorge trail, a 2.5-hour hike that gains 700m. The route follows the stream through the narrow canyon then opens onto alpine pasture. In winter, approach from the Saalbach side via the Reiterkogel pass if the gorge is impassable. The hut works well as a base for traversing toward the Loferer and Leoganger peaks or as a stopping point on longer valley crossings.
Gerstreialm is a traditional working alpine farm offering simple accommodation for 20–30 people in shared dorm rooms. The keeper serves hearty Austrian mountain food: schnitzel, Kasnocken, and seasonal dishes made from local ingredients. Facilities are basic but adequate: pit toilet or simple water closet, no shower. The hut operates year-round as a farm but takes mountain guests May through October. In summer, expect herds of cattle grazing nearby. Phone ahead to confirm availability, especially in July and August.
Book directly with the hut by telephone. Contact details are listed with the Austrian Alpine Club (OeAV). July and August fill quickly, particularly at weekends. June, September and early October offer more reliable availability. The hut has no email, so call ahead. Arrive with cash—card payments are unreliable in this remote location.
Gerstreialm is a traditional working alpine farm offering simple accommodation for 20–30 people in shared dorm rooms. The keeper serves hearty Austrian mountain food: schnitzel, Kasnocken, and seasonal dishes made from local ingredients. Facilities are basic but adequate: pit toilet or simple water closet, no shower. The hut operates year-round as a farm but takes mountain guests May through October. In summer, expect herds of cattle grazing nearby. Phone ahead to confirm availability, especially in July and August.
Book directly with the hut by telephone. Contact details are listed with the Austrian Alpine Club (OeAV). July and August fill quickly, particularly at weekends. June, September and early October offer more reliable availability. The hut has no email, so call ahead. Arrive with cash—card payments are unreliable in this remote location.
Frequently Asked Questions
Book 2–3 months ahead for July and August; 4–6 weeks for June and September.
Gerstreitalm is staffed from June to October; winter access is possible via Reiterkogel pass but confirm with the hut first.
Hike from Lofer village via the Gerstreibach gorge trail—2.5 hours and 700m elevation gain through a narrow canyon onto alpine pasture.
The hut serves hot meals and drinks; bed capacity is limited so bring a sleeping bag liner, and shower facilities are basic.
The gorge trail is non-technical but steep and exposed in sections; it suits fit hikers with some Alpine experience rather than absolute beginners.
Location
47.2460, 13.2261
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This hut takes bookings direct, so beds go to whoever asks first. Tell us your dates and we'll email you when it's time to reserve — with the hut's contact details.
HutLists Score
2.9
Overall
Facilities
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Season
Based on facilities, access, and how reliably the hut is open.
Quick Facts
- Managing club
- OeAV
Facilities
Meals served
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