The hike to the Schmittenhöhe starts in Aufhausen; in winter, the Piesendorf–Fürth–Aufhausen–Piesendorf nativity trail also passes through the village. This gives you two distinct focal points for your stay: a hiking route with clearly named trail sections and a seasonal trail with a nativity scene at the filial church of St. Leonhard. Architectural heritage and a dated event round out the options. When planning your trip, first consider whether the Schmittenhöhe, the winter nativity trail or a cultural event will shape your day.

Hiking to the Schmittenhöhe

The hike starts in Aufhausen and follows trail no. 8 via Dürnberg. At a fork, it switches to hiking trail 8A; then it continues via Breiteck Alm on trails 50 and 58 to the Schmittenhöhe. When navigating, take note of the change at the fork and the stretch via the alm. At 1,954 m, the Schmittenhöhe is the highest point on the route. From there, enjoy 360° panoramic views of the surrounding Kitzbühel Alps.

For the return journey, you can either descend along the ascent route or take the Schmittenhöhebahn or trassXpress to Zell am See; from there, return to the starting point by bus or train. The cable car option therefore also requires you to include onward travel from Zell am See in your day’s plans. Before setting out, check the trail numbers and conditions, as well as the current operating times and timetables for the lifts and public transport.

The Panorama mountain restaurant is located at the summit of the Schmittenhöhe. Its address is Aufhausen 279, 5721 Piesendorf. The restaurant offers self-service and a sun terrace with a view. If you would like to include it in your day’s plans, check its opening hours in advance; also plan your return using one of the options listed above.

Nativity Trail and Architectural Heritage

The Baroque filial church in Aufhausen is dedicated to St. Leonhard. A nativity scene is located in the filial church of St. Leonhard along the winter Piesendorf–Fürth–Aufhausen–Piesendorf nativity trail; the route presents the Baroque church as a notable gem. The nativity trail thus combines a specific stop in Aufhausen with a winter theme. According to the Salzburg list of protected monuments, as of June 30, 2025, the Mußbachgut farmhouse at Aufhausen 38 is protected under the Monument Protection Act. The church and farmhouse offer different cultural points of interest: Baroque architecture and a protected farmhouse.

For the Leonhardifest in Aufhausen, the municipal program lists equestrian games and pony rides for children at 12:30 p.m. on October 25, 2026. If this event is important to your trip, check the date before you arrive.

Plan Your Stay

Tailor your search to your travel dates and the focus of your stay, rather than treating the different offerings as interchangeable day-trip destinations.

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