Hochälpelehütte
4.2About
Hochälpelehütte sits at 1,460m in the Bregenzerwald region of Vorarlberg. The hut anchors the hiking network around the Hochälpele plateau. Reach it from Mellau in 2.5 hours via the Hochälpele trail, a steady climb through forested terrain that gains 650m elevation. The walk is well-marked and straightforward. An alternative approach comes from Schoppernau, taking roughly the same time. The hut serves as a junction point for day walks across the plateau and as a base for traversing toward the Appenzell Alps to the west.
The OeAV-managed hut has 40 beds in simple dormitories. Meals include hearty alpine fare with vegetarian options. The kitchen produces packed lunches for onward hiking. A small shop stocks basic supplies. Water and toilets are reliable. The hut opens from May through October, with reduced service in shoulder months. Phone ahead to confirm availability outside peak season. Expect cold nights even in summer at this elevation.
Book 8-10 weeks ahead for July and August weekends. Email hochaelpelehü[email protected] or call +43 5519 52 47 to reserve. They accept payment by bank transfer. The hut gets busy on summer Saturdays when locals do day walks from the valleys below. Mid-week slots are easier to secure. Arrive before 6 pm for dinner.
The OeAV-managed hut has 40 beds in simple dormitories. Meals include hearty alpine fare with vegetarian options. The kitchen produces packed lunches for onward hiking. A small shop stocks basic supplies. Water and toilets are reliable. The hut opens from May through October, with reduced service in shoulder months. Phone ahead to confirm availability outside peak season. Expect cold nights even in summer at this elevation.
Book 8-10 weeks ahead for July and August weekends. Email hochaelpelehü[email protected] or call +43 5519 52 47 to reserve. They accept payment by bank transfer. The hut gets busy on summer Saturdays when locals do day walks from the valleys below. Mid-week slots are easier to secure. Arrive before 6 pm for dinner.
Frequently Asked Questions
Contact the hut directly by phone or email at least 2–3 months ahead, especially for weekends and July–August.
The hut is typically open May through October, but confirm dates with the hut before planning your visit.
Walk 2.5 hours from Mellau via the well-marked Hochälpele trail (650m elevation gain), or take a similar route from Schoppernau.
The hut serves meals and provides bed accommodation; confirm availability of showers or washing facilities when booking.
Yes—the Hochälpele trail from Mellau is steady and well-marked, with no scrambling or exposure, making it suitable for families and intermediate hikers.
Location
47.4027, 9.8126
Need a hotel nearby?
Staying in Vorarlberg before or after your hike? Compare hotels on Booking.com.
Search hotels in VorarlbergBooked 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
4.2
Overall
Facilities
Access
Season
Based on facilities, access, and how reliably the hut is open.
Quick Facts
- Managing club
- OeAV
Facilities
Meals served
Contact & Booking
- [email protected]
- Phone
- +43 664 9213133
- Website
- https://www.alpenverein.at/hochaelpelehuette/
Activities
Featured In
Free Packing Checklist
Get the printable Alpine Hut Packing Checklist, plus route guides and booking tips.