With a view of the Hochschwab and Hochlantsch

Moderate | 15.8 km | 5:30 hrs | 890 m elevation gain
St. Jakob/Breitenau am Hochlantsch

The Hofbauer Alm Loop is one of the most beautiful alpine hikes in Breitenau am Hochlantsch. It winds through shady forests and across expansive alpine meadows, offering breathtaking views of the Hochlantsch, the Hochschwab, the Hochschlag, and many other peaks in Upper Styria.

The Ebenschlag Summit Cross on the Hofbauer Alm Loop in the Almenland Nature Park

From St. Jakob to the Hofbauer Alm

The hike starts in the town center of St. Jakob in Breitenau am Hochlantsch; from there, the trail climbs quite steeply up to Eibegg, where magnificent views already await us. The route continues over the Ederkogel to the Hofbauer Alm. From there, you can see not only the Hochlantsch but also the Hochschwab, the Hochschlag, the Schöckl, and many other peaks.

At the Hofbauer Alm, the Hofbauer Almhütte also invites you to stop for a break; please note that the hut is closed during the winter. The return route takes us over the Dornkogel until we finally reach St. Jakob again. If you’d like, you can also take a break there at the Gasthof Hofbauer.

Depending on your preference, the hike can also be shortened or extended.

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An overview of the key details:

Starting Point & Parking

Start/Finish:
Town center of St. Jakob in Breitenau am Hochlantsch

Free parking is available right in the town center.

Alternative:
The hike can also start from the Zirbisegger parking lot in Breitenau am Hochlantsch. 

Places to Stop for a Meal

Along the hike, two establishments invite you to stop in for a relaxing break.

  • Hofbauer Alpine Hut (open seasonally, closed during the winter)
  • Gasthof Hofbauer in Breitenau/H.

Road Conditions

The hike follows well-marked trails, forest roads, forest paths, and short paved sections. The ascent to the Eibeggsattel is steeper in places, but not technically difficult. With an elevation gain of just under 900 meters, a good level of basic fitness is required.

Part of the route passes through alpine pastureland. Please observe the rules of conduct when encountering grazing livestock.

Recommended Equipment

  • For a pleasant and safe hike, we recommend:
  • Sturdy footwear
  • Water bottle and a small snack
  • Weather-appropriate clothing using the layering principle
  • Rain and Sun Protection
  • Hiking Poles Tailored to Your Needs
  • cell phone
  • Small First Aid Kit