Schafberg

Schafberg is a 1,783-metre mountain in the Salzkammergut range of the Northern Limestone Alps. It stands at the edge of Wolfgangsee, one of the region’s most famous lakes. The mountain’s name means ‘sheep mountain’, a reminder of the flocks once grazed on its slopes. A rack railway, the Schafbergbahn, climbs from St. Wolfgang to the top. Built in 1893, it is one of the oldest mountain railways in Austria. The summit rewards visitors with sweeping views across the Salzkammergut’s lakes and peaks. At the top sits the Schafbergspitze hotel, opened in 1862 for early tourists. The hotel’s terrace frames the Wolfgangsee far below and the surrounding ranges. On clear days the Dachstein massif and other peaks appear on the horizon. The railway’s wooden carriages add to the journey’s charm. Paths lead from the hotel along the ridge for short walks. The air is cool even in summer, and the scent of alpine flowers lingers. Below, the lake’s deep blue waters contrast with the pale limestone crags. Visitors often linger for sunset, when the mountains glow pink. The return ride down the railway completes a memorable day in the high Alps.