The best walks and hikes around Gastern

Gastern offers a diverse range of hiking experiences across two distinct regions. In the Swiss Gasterntal, you'll find trails through a secluded valley with dramatic rock faces, roaring streams, and expansive meadows. In the Austrian Waldviertel, the landscape features unique open raised bogs, ancient moorland, and mystical rock formations. The trails vary from easy walks to more challenging treks.

There are over 140 hiking routes recorded in Gastern on komoot, catering to various preferences and fitness levels. This includes 92 easy routes, 54 moderate routes, and 2 difficult routes.

Yes, Gastern has numerous easy trails suitable for families. For a shorter, gentle walk, consider the Birch Tree with Wayside Shrine – Pfaffenschlag Football Field loop from Pfaffenschlag bei Waidhofen an der Thaya, which is 4.7 km long and takes about 1 hour 16 minutes through rural landscapes.

The region boasts several unique natural features. In the Austrian Waldviertel, you can explore the rare open raised bogs and mystical rock formations. A great way to experience this is on the Gemeindeau Moor Boardwalk – Hanging Stone loop from Heidenreichstein, which passes by the Gemeindeau Moor Boardwalk and the Hanging Stone. The Swiss Gasterntal is known for its impressive rock faces and the Kander River gorge.

The hiking trails in Gastern are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.7 stars from over 140 reviews. Hikers often praise the varied terrain, from the secluded beauty of the Gasterntal to the unique natural reserves of the Waldviertel.

Yes, many routes in Gastern are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. An example is the Hiking loop from Eggern, a moderate 8 km trail that takes about 2 hours 8 minutes.

The best time to hike in Gastern generally depends on the region. The Swiss Gasterntal is ideal from late spring to early autumn for enjoying the high-altitude valley. The Austrian Waldviertel, with its bogs and moorlands, can be pleasant in spring, summer, and autumn, offering different natural spectacles throughout these seasons.

Access to the Gasterntal in Switzerland is often via public transport to Kandersteg, followed by a local bus or a walk into the valley. For the Austrian Waldviertel, public transport options may vary, so it's advisable to check local schedules for specific trailheads.

In the Gasterntal, you might find mountain huts or small eateries, especially in the main valley area. In the Austrian Waldviertel, some routes pass through or near villages where you can find local establishments. For example, the Heidenreichstein Moor Shelter is a hut located near some of the bog trails.

The terrain varies significantly. In the Swiss Gasterntal, you'll encounter paths ranging from sandy plains and meandering riverbanks to more rugged sections with rocks and steep ascents towards impressive rock faces. The Austrian Waldviertel features paths through open raised bogs, ancient moorland, and forested areas, with some mystical rock formations.

Yes, for experienced hikers seeking a challenge, Gastern offers longer and more difficult routes. An example is the Große Basilika Stone Circle – Pioniersteg loop from Niederedlitz, a difficult 28.8 km trail in the Waldviertel that typically takes nearly 8 hours to complete.