Top 20 Mountain Passes around Au

The region around Au features several popular mountain passes and summits. Among the most highly-rated are Hählesattel, known for its rugged rock on one side and a steep grassy ridge on the other, offering breathtaking views of Lake Constance and the valley to Mellau. Another favorite is Walmendinger Horn, a summit offering expansive views and hiking opportunities. Visitors also appreciate Ochsenhofer Scharte, which provides spectacular views of the surrounding valleys and towering mountains between Ochenhöfer Köpfle and Grünhorn.

Yes, Walmendinger Horn is categorized as family-friendly, offering hiking opportunities and expansive views that can be enjoyed by all ages. It's a great spot for families looking to experience the alpine scenery.

The mountain passes around Au offer diverse natural beauty. From Hählesattel, you can enjoy views of Lake Constance and the valley to Mellau, with a chance to spot ibexes. Sünser Pass provides a great view of the 'Seven Hills' and features a beautiful, somewhat remote mountain lake. Ochsenhofer Scharte offers spectacular views of lush valleys and towering mountains.

The best time to visit mountain passes in the Austrian Alps, including those around Au, is generally from late spring to early autumn (May to October). During these months, the weather is typically milder, and the passes are free of snow, making them ideal for hiking, cycling, and scenic drives. Early season visits can offer dramatic views with snow still resting at higher elevations, as seen on passes like the Großglockner High Alpine Road in the wider Austrian Alps.

Yes, several mountain passes and summits around Au offer challenging routes. For instance, Ochsenhofer Scharte is rated as challenging, accessible via routes like the Starzelweg from Baad or from the Walmendinger Horn. Similarly, Üntschenspitze is a challenging climb with a great panoramic view, reachable from Schoppenau. These routes often require assured sure-footedness.

The region around Au's mountain passes is excellent for various outdoor activities. You can find numerous mountain hikes, including challenging routes like the Hoher Stoß – Holenke Summit (Kanisfluh) loop. For cyclists, there are many cycling routes, such as the View of the Bregenzer Ach – Bregenzer Ache Cycle Path loop. Mountain biking enthusiasts can explore MTB trails like the Au-Schoppernau | Schönenbach – Schreibersattel route.

While the main highlights are popular, Sünser Pass, located between Sünser Spitze and Portlahorn, is described as featuring a beautiful, somewhat remote mountain lake. It offers a great view of the 'Seven Hills' and might provide a quieter experience compared to more frequented spots.

Visitors frequently praise the breathtaking views and the opportunities for hiking. Tips highlight enjoying the great views from summits like Walmendinger Horn and the spectacular panoramas from Ochsenhofer Scharte. The chance to spot wildlife, such as ibexes at Hählesattel, is also a cherished experience.

While many passes offer intermediate or challenging sections, the general accessibility of the region's trails means that some parts of the mountain passes can be enjoyed by beginners. For example, the Üntschenspitze path is noted as 'never getting really difficult' for hikers who respect a burr path, suggesting it's manageable for those with less experience but assured sure-footedness.

Specific elevations for all passes around Au are not detailed, but the region is part of the Alpine landscape, characterized by towering peaks. For context, major Austrian passes like the Großglockner High Alpine Road reach 2,504 meters, and Timmelsjoch High Alpine Road is at 2,479 meters. The passes around Au, such as Walmendinger Horn and Üntschenspitze, are summits that offer significant elevation gains and panoramic views.

Yes, you can. Sünser Pass is located near a beautiful, somewhat remote mountain lake, offering a scenic combination of a pass and a tranquil water body. Additionally, Hählesattel provides breathtaking views of Lake Constance in the distance.