Ten signposted waypoints along the historic Schwärzerweg give Palfau a cultural and historical dimension. Another route follows the Salza through shady high forest; at the Wasserloch and in the gorge, water takes centre stage. This gives you a choice of different themes to explore when planning your stay: working history, landscape and water.
Historic waypoints on the Schwärzerweg
The historic Schwärzerweg near Palfau leads from Erzhalden through the Raffelgraben to the Niederscheibenalm, at an elevation of 1,200 metres. Ten signposted waypoints offer insights into the working lives of the Holzknechte (woodcutters) and the Schwärzer (smugglers). The Schwärzer were smugglers, and they gave the route its name. The stops therefore link an explanation of the name with insights into the working lives of the Holzknechte and Schwärzer. If you are interested in the history behind a route name, this trail offers a specific starting point: the smugglers are reflected in the name, while the waypoints also cover the working lives of the Holzknechte.
The Salza and high forest on the Paradiesweg
The Paradiesweg Palfau runs between Erzhalden and Palfau, mostly along the left bank of the Salza and through shady high forest. The riverbank and forest define its character, while the Schwärzerweg focuses on working history and the smugglers. To compare the routes, consider whether you are looking for signposted cultural and historical insights or a route along the river through the high forest. The riverbank location and forest are two clearly stated features of the Paradiesweg.
Comparing the routes
The place names mentioned also differ: the Schwärzerweg leads from Erzhalden through the Raffelgraben to the Niederscheibenalm; the Paradiesweg runs between Erzhalden and Palfau. Both routes mention Erzhalden, but their further courses and thematic focuses are described differently. You can therefore compare the routes both by the places named and by their respective themes.
Wasserloch and Wasserlochklamm
The Palfauer Wasserloch is the largest water-bearing cave in Styria. At the Palfauer Wasserloch, spring water descends through the gorge over a distance of 900 metres, dropping 300 metres in elevation, almost in free fall. The distance and elevation figures describe different aspects of the water’s movement; the cave’s classification also locates the site within the region. The Wasserlochklamm Palfau trail crosses a suspension bridge and follows a wooden walkway past five waterfalls to the mysterious Wasserloch. This route description focuses on the sequence and the features mentioned, while the Palfauer Wasserloch description focuses on the cave and the movement of the spring water.
Tickets and another activity
Tickets for outdoor operators and private visitors are available at the Wasserlochklamm Palfau visitor centre. Check the ticket arrangements before travelling if you plan to visit the gorge. Freelife Outdoorsport, Palfau 102, 8923 Landl, offers the Palfau high ropes course as a holiday experience. Check the operating details before your visit.
Discover more destinations: Wildalpen, Stein An Der Enns, Kleinsölk, Donnersbachwald, Weißenbach An Der Enns, Stainach, Weißenbach Bei Liezen, Gössenberg
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