Außerwaldhütte

The Außerwaldhütte sits at 1,909m in the Allgäu Alps, accessible from the village of Schoppernau in the Bregenzerwald. From Schoppernau, follow the marked path up the Walderbach valley—it takes 2 hours to reach the hut. The route gains 650m steadily through woodland then opens to alpine meadows. In summer, a cable car from Schoppernau reduces hiking time, though arriving on foot gives better acclimatization. The hut serves as a base for walking to Widderstein (2,533m) and Hochälpele (2,428m), both 2–3 hours away, or for longer mountaineering traverses across the northern Vorarlberg peaks.
The hut offers 40 beds in shared dormitories. Meals are prepared daily and include hearty evening dinners and packed lunches available on request. There is no electricity and water comes from the mountain spring—expect basic comfort. The hut operates June through September reliably; shoulder months depend on weather and staffing. A small grocery shop is usually open, though supplies are limited. The facility is managed by local volunteers and the Austrian Alpine Club (OeAV).
Book directly with the hut keeper from May onwards. July and August fill quickly, especially weekends—reserve 4–6 weeks ahead for these months. June and September offer quieter access. The hut has no phone; contact via post or check the OeAV website for current booking details and opening dates. Expect cash payment only.