Zapferlalm
2.5
Salzburg, Austria
Write a review
About
Zapferlalm sits at 1,560m in the Berchtesgaden Alps south of Salzburg, on the Königssee's eastern shore. Reach it from Bad Reichenhall via the Thumsee valley in roughly 3 hours, or from Schellenberger Eishöhle in 2.5 hours. The trail is well-marked but steep in sections. You can also approach from the Königssee village on the Bavaria side, though this requires crossing into Germany. The hut marks the transition point between forested foothills and higher alpine meadows.
Zapferlalm operates year-round as a working alpine farm and guesthouse, not a high-altitude climbing hut. It sleeps around 30 people in simple rooms and dormitories. The kitchen serves traditional Austrian and Bavarian food—expect hearty portions rather than fine dining. There's no electricity, so heating is stove-based and water comes from the mountain spring. Toilets are basic. The hut makes its own butter and dairy products. Staff speak German and English.
Book at least 4 weeks ahead for July and August. Contact the hut directly by telephone (+43 662 2474); email is unreliable. Summer weekends fill fast. Winter access depends on snow conditions—call ahead. The hut is closed during shoulder seasons only—confirm before the off-season. Payment is cash only; the hut has no card terminal.
Zapferlalm operates year-round as a working alpine farm and guesthouse, not a high-altitude climbing hut. It sleeps around 30 people in simple rooms and dormitories. The kitchen serves traditional Austrian and Bavarian food—expect hearty portions rather than fine dining. There's no electricity, so heating is stove-based and water comes from the mountain spring. Toilets are basic. The hut makes its own butter and dairy products. Staff speak German and English.
Book at least 4 weeks ahead for July and August. Contact the hut directly by telephone (+43 662 2474); email is unreliable. Summer weekends fill fast. Winter access depends on snow conditions—call ahead. The hut is closed during shoulder seasons only—confirm before the off-season. Payment is cash only; the hut has no card terminal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Book at least 2–3 months ahead for summer weekends; weekdays have more availability. Contact the hut directly by phone or email, as they don't use central booking systems.
Zapferlalm is staffed from May to October, with peak season June through September.
From Bad Reichenhall via Thumsee valley (3 hours) or from Schellenberger Eishöhle (2.5 hours); the trail is well-marked but steep in sections.
The hut serves hot meals and drinks; they have dormitory and private rooms with basic bedding, but no shower facilities.
It's manageable for fit families and intermediate hikers due to the 3-hour approach and steep sections, but the altitude gain and exposed terrain aren't ideal for young children or complete beginners.
Location
47.3858, 13.0737
Plan your visit
Get directionsNeed a hotel nearby?
Staying in Salzburg before or after your hike? Compare hotels on Booking.com.
Search hotels in SalzburgBooked through Booking.com — we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. More
Don't forget to book
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
2.5
Overall
Facilities
Access
Season
Based on facilities, access, and how reliably the hut is open.
Quick Facts
- Managing club
- DAV
Facilities
Meals served
Activities
Featured In
Free Packing Checklist
Get the printable Alpine Hut Packing Checklist, plus route guides and booking tips.