Höllensteinhütte

The Höllensteinhütte sits at 1,740m in the Zillertal, in the eastern Zillertal Alps east of Mayrhofen. Reach it on foot from Schwendau village (take the valley train to Schwendau station) via the marked trail past Zillergründe. The hike takes 2.5 hours and gains 700m steadily through forest. The hut also connects via marked paths to Zamser Grund and onwards to higher huts in the range, making it a solid base for multi-day tours.
The Höllensteinhütte is run by the Zillertal section of the Austrian Alpine Club (OeAV) and sleeps around 80 people across dormitory rooms. Half-board is standard: a solid breakfast and evening meal. The kitchen serves local Tyrolean food—expect schnitzel, spätzle, and hearty soups. The hut has toilets and washbasins with cold water; hot water for washing is available. The hut operates from early June through late September, with a winter closure. Mobile phone coverage is unreliable.
Book direct through the hut from April onwards for summer weekends and July-August. July and August weekends fill 8–12 weeks ahead. Email or phone ahead during shoulder season (June and September) to check availability. Half-board costs roughly €45–55 per person. The hut takes cash and bank transfer; card payment is not reliable. Arrive by early afternoon to secure a meal slot.