Geography Of Haus im Ennstal

Haus im Ennstal is a community in Styria’s Liezen district, central Austria. Renowned as a ski resort, it is also a town on the Enns River.

The town is situated in the lovely Styrian Ennstal area, known for its amazing mountainous scenery. It is in the area known for natural beauty, the Dachstein-Tauern region.Rising at the Höchstein peak at 2543 meters, the municipality spans the Dachstein plateau in the north to the Schladminger Tauern in the south.The local mountain of Hauser Kaibling, which rises 2015 meters south of the Enns River, is

Geologically speaking, the municipal areas north of the Enns River are considered to be part of the Dachstein massif within the Northern Limestone Alps. Conversely, the Schladminger Tauern, made of crystalline rocks, covers the areas south of the river.

As of January 1, 2022, the eight localities in the municipal area had a population of:

Birnberg (134) including Birnberg scattered houses
Ennsling (400) including Höhenfeld, Niederberg and Ruperting
Gumpenberg (84) including Hauserberg
House (913)
Fief (114)
House of Lords (173)
Oberhausberg (42)
Weißenbach (605) including Sonnberg

The community consists in the cadastral towns of Haus, Ennsling, Oberhaus, and Weißenbach.

Location

Haus im Ennstal is in Upper Styria, in the river valley of the Enns. It has an area of 67.8 square kilometers and is 752 meters above sea level. The village is home to about 2,400 people.

The Dachstein-Tauern mountain range is in the eastern part of the Alps. Haus im Ennstal is in this range. Hauser Kaibling, Planai, Hochwurzen, and Reiteralm are all ski resorts that are part of the Schladming-Dachstein tourism area. The closest big city is Salzburg, which is 90 kilometers southeast of Haus im Ennstal. The main town in the area is Schladming, which is 6 kilometers south.

The towns of Aich, Gröbming, Ramsau am Dachstein, Rohrmoos-Untertal, and Schladming are all surrounded by Haus im Ennstal. The village is also close to the state of Salzburg, which is west of the Enns river.

There are a number of ways to get to Haus im Ennstal. You can drive from the area to the A9 highway and all of Austria on the Ennstal road (B320). There is train service on the Ennstal railway, which runs along the Enns river and has a station in Haus. There are regular bus lines that connect it to Schladming and other towns nearby. The Salzburg Airport, which has flights between Austria and other countries, can be reached by car.

Scenic Views

The area where Haus im Ennstal is located boasts a range of breathtaking natural and man-made views. Along with thorough and close-up views, the area provides panoramic and aerial views as well. The area offers many vantage points including towers, cable cars, bridges, and mountain tops. Hiking, biking, skiing, and sightseeing are just a few of the lots of chances to enjoy the surroundings. Among the most amazing views are those shown here:

The Dachstein Skywalk is a glass platform hung above a 250-meter drop on the Hunerkogel mountain close to the Dachstein glacier. One of the most exciting and highest views in the region, it offers a 360-degree perspective of the Alps and the adjacent valleys. Accessing it via the Dachstein Glacier Lift, a cable car climbing to the glacier, makes it among the most easily accessible and practical viewpoints as well.
Annually held on the Planai ski slope close to the town of Schladming, the Planai Night Race is a slalom event Drawing thousands of people and international ski-stars, it is among the most exciting and festive sights in the region. Including a magnificent light show, fireworks, and music, it is also among the most vivid and dynamic perspectives. Since it lets supporters cheer for their chosen skiers, it is also among the most interactive and participatory viewpoints.
Nestled in the Lower Enns valley close to Admont, the 120 square kilometre Gesäuse National Park It is one of the most natural and diverse views in the region, as it demonstrates the beauty and variety of the Alpine landscape. Because it offers a range of activities and programs including wildlife viewing, rafting, climbing, and hiking, it is also one of the most educational and adventurous points of view. Furthermore, it is among the most inspirational and educational points of view since the National Park Pavilion, a visitor center highlighting the ecology and rich legacy of the park, calls there.
Near the meeting point of the Enns and the Danube rivers sits the pilgrimage church Basilica of Our Lady of Loreto, perched on a hill in the town of Asten. Dedicated to the Virgin Mary and spanning the 17th century, this is among the most historically significant and culturally relevant points of view available in the area. With a baroque architecture, opulent interior, and famous organ, it is also among the most sophisticated and artistic viewpoints. Drawing in a great number of pilgrims and guests seeking grace and comfort, it is also among the most spiritual and peaceful views.

Terrain and Topography

Haus im Ennstal has a varied topography and terrain, ranging from the level valley floor to the steep mountain slopes. Many mountain ranges, part of the Northern Limestone Alps, surround the village. Among these are the most notable the Dachstein massif to the north, the Schladminger Tauern to the south, and the Niedere Tauern to the east. Rising 2,015 meters above sea level, the Hauser Kaibling summit is the highest point in the municipality. The lowest point is the Enns river, which runs 694 meters above sea level through the town.

Mountain Ranges

Terrain and Topography

For hikers, climbers, and skiers, the mountain ranges that round Haus im Ennstal are among the most picturesque and sought-after sites in Austria. Along with rocky peaks and valleys, they offer a wide range of settings including glaciers, meadows, and forests. Particularly interesting mountain ranges are:

The most famous and highest mountain group in the area is the Dachstein massif. One of several mountains in Styria that climb above 2,500 meters is the Hoher Dachstein, 2,995 meters. Renowned for its panoramic views, karst formations, and ice cavernues, the Dachstein In the vicinity are also the Dachstein Skywalk, a glass platform dangling over a 250-meter drop, and the highest bridge in Austria, the Dachstein suspension bridge.
A subrange of the Central Eastern Alps, the Schladminger Tauern Their normal elevation is 2,000 meters; they run from the Enns valley to the Mur valley. Renowned alpine pastures, lakes, and waterfalls, the Schladminger Tauern are They are also a well-known ski area since they fit the Ski Amadé network with 270 lifts and 760 kilometers of slopes.
The Nieder Tauern constitute still another subrange of the Central Eastern Alps. With a range of 1,500 to 2,500 meters, their elevation is lower than that of the Schladminger Tauern and they are east of the Enns valley. Though less often seen by visitors, the Niedere Tauern offer some of the most immaculate and unspoiled natural settings in the region. For bike, hiking, and wildlife viewing, they are ideal.

Key Mountain Peaks

Terrain and Topography

Some of the most famous and striking mountain peaks in Austria envelop Haus im Ennstal. Among the most important mountain tops are some like:

The first ski mountain in the Schladming-Dachstein area, the Hauser Kaibling is also the local mountain Haus im Ennstal. Rising 2,015 meters, it offers a broad perspective of the Dachstein massif and the Enns valley. One may reach the Hauser Kaibling by cable car, chairlift, or hiking path. It boasts 14 ski huts, 15 kilometers of ski paths, and 44 kilometers of ski slopes. Summertime disc golf, e-trials, and children’s playgrounds all find favor here. Besides, the mountain hosts 800 sheep that graze and help to preserve the ecological slopes.
Second ski mountain in the Schladming-Dachstein area and the main ski mountain in Schladming is the Planai. Perched at 1,906 meters, it offers a broad perspective of the Schladminger Tauern and the Niedere Tauern. One may reach the Planai by cable car, chairlift, or hiking trail. It boasts 123 kilometers of ski slopes, 40 kilometers of paths, and 20 ski houses. It is also the site of the yearly Night Race, a slalom event attracting thousands of viewers and elite international skiers.
The third ski mountain in the Schladming-Dachstein area, the Planai is neighbors with the Hochwurzen. Rising 1,850 meters, it offers a broad perspective of the Dachstein massif and the Enns valley. One may reach the Hochwurzen by cable car, chairlift, or hiking path. It claims ten ski huts, twelve kilometers of ski paths, and thirty-two kilometers of ski slopes. Cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and tobogganing also find favor here. Accessible 24 hours a day, it claims to have the longest natural toboggan run in the area—seven kilometers.
Reiteralm is the easternmost of the four ski mountains in the Schladming-Dachstein area. Rising 1,860 meters, it offers a panoramic perspective of the Enns valley and the Niedere Tauern. One can reach the Reiteralm by cable car, chairlift, or hiking path. It boasts 8 ski huts, 15 kilometers of ski paths, and 32 kilometers of ski slopes. Its varied snow conditions and slopes also provide training ground for many national and international ski teams.

Notable Summits

Terrain and Topography

For experienced hikers and climbers, Haus im Ennstal poses a challenge and a sense of accomplishment since it is near many of the most important summits in the region. Among the especially notable summits are:

Second highest peak in the Northern Limestone Alps and highest peak in the Dachstein massif is the Hoher Dachstein. Standing 2,995 meters, it is the highest point in Styria and Upper Austria. Rising the glaciated peak known as the Hoher Dachstein calls both knowledge and specific tools. All of which are of different difficulty, it provides a range of paths from the normal route via the Hunerkogel glacier to the extreme path via the Dachstein south face. The summit offers an amazing view of the valleys encirculating the Alps.
A noteworthy site is the Hochgolling, the highest peak in the Schladminger Tauern and the highest peak in Styria outside of the Dachstein massif. Rising to 2,862 meters, it is a well-known monument in the area. Climbing the Hochgolling calls both great experience and high degree of fitness. It provides a range of paths, from the simple one across the Gollingwinkel valley to the more challenging one across the Golling north face. From the top, both the Dachstein massif and the Schladminger Tauern are absolutely breathtakingly visible.
Third highest peak in Styria, the Hochwildstelle also ranks highest among the Niedere Tauern. Rising to 2,747 meters, this peak is unusual in the region. Access the grassy peak known as the Hochwildstelle by a long and demanding climb. Its main path runs one way, from the Preintaler hut along the ridge to the summit. From the top, the Niedere Tauern and the Enns valley are brilliantly clear.

Valleys and Basins

Terrain and Topography

Situated in the Enns valley, one of Austria’s most beautiful and varied valleys, Haus im Ennstal is Long and narrow, the Enns valley runs from the Salzburg state border to the Styrian capital, Graz. It is split into several pieces, each with own appeal and distinct quality. Among the most important valleys and basins are some like:

The Upper Enns valley is the portion of the Enns valley spanning the Salzburg state border to the town of Liezen. Nestled among the Dachstein, the Schladminger Tauern, and the Niedere Tauern, this valley’s most picturesque and mountainous section Given the Schladming-Dachstein ski area, Dachstein glacier, and Ramsau am Dachstein plateau, this area is also the most tourist-friendly one in the valley. Having seen many battles and events throughout the Napoleonic Wars, World War I, and World War II, the Upper Enns valley boasts a rich cultural and historical legacy.
The Enns basin is the portion of the Enns valley spanning Liezen’s town to Stainach’s town. The confluence of the Enns river and its tributaries—including the Salza, Palten, and Grimmingbach—results in a broad, level basin. Focused mostly on agriculture and forestry, this less developed and more rural area of the valley is The mountains shield the Enns basin from the wind and cold, so producing a mild and sunny climate. Among the natural and cultural highlights of the Enns basin are the Grimming, the highest freestanding mountain in Europe; the Admont Abbey, the biggest monastic library worldwide; and the Gesäuse National Park, the newest national park in Austria.
The Lower Enns valley is the part of the Enns valley running from Stainach town to the Styrian capital, Graz. Following the Enns river as it passes across the Styrian hills and plains, this long and narrow valley is Having many towns and cities including Liezen, Selzthal, Rottenmann, Weyer, Steyr, Enns, and Asten, this part of the valley is more industrialized and urbanized. The Lower Enns valley’s concentration of trade, transportation, and creativity has produced a vibrant and varied economy. Among the historical and cultural sites of the Lower Enns valley are the oldest castle in Austria, the Enns Town Tower, and the Basilica of Our Lady of Loreto, the biggest pilgrimage church in Austria.

Geological Features

Situated in a geologically varied and plentiful area shaped over millions of years by tectonic movements, glacial erosion, and karst processes is Haus im Ennstal. Among the several geological features of the area are fossils, rock formations, caves, and cliffs. Among the most amazing geological formations are a number of:

Comprising a network of ice-filled cavernues within the Dachstein massif, the Dachstein Ice Caves With a total length of more than 40 kilometers and a volume more than 6 million cubic meters, they are among the most amazing and broad ice caves found worldwide. Among the several chambers and galleries housed at the Dachstein Ice Caves are the Mammuthöhle, the Rieseneishöhle, and the Eispalast. Stalactites, stalagmites, columns, and curtains abound in these places among amazing ice formations. Cable cars and guided trips allow one to reach the Dachstein Ice Caves.
High-altitude karst plateau found within the Dachstein massif is the Dachstein Karst Plateau. Among the most complex and large karst areas in the Alps, it boasts a surface area more than 200 square kilometers and a depth more than 1,000 meters. On the Dachstein Karst Plateau, the breakdown and drainage of the limestone rock have produced many features including sinkholes, dolines, poljes, and ponors. Along with the Dachstein salamander and primrose, the Dachstein Karst Plateau boasts many rare and endemic species of flora and animals.
The steep and exposed Schladming Rock Face is found in the Schladminger Tauern. With a width of more than three kilometers and a height of over 1,000 meters, this one of the most difficult and amazing rock climbing sites in the area. From the traditional Schladminger Westgrat to the extreme Schladminger Nordwand, each path on the Schladminger Rock Face has varying degree of difficulty. Along with a wonderful view of the Dachstein massif and the Enns valley, the Schladming Rock Face gives climbers an exciting and satisfying experience.

Flora and Fauna

Haus im Ennstal is in an area rich in flora and fauna, hence biologically varied. From the alpine zone at an elevation of over 2,000 meters to the submontane zone at less than 800 meters, the area boasts several vegetation zones. Numerous plant and animal species call the area home; some of them are rare, endangered, or endemic. The most remarkable flora and fauna are listed here:

Only found on the Dachstein Karst Plateau, the flowering plant Dachstein primrose Little and delicate, this plant has hairy leaves and yellow blossoms. Climate change, overgrazing, and tourism all threaten it; it is among the rarest and most protected species in Austria. The Dachstein primrose blossoms in May and June and is evident along the Dachstein circular trail, a hiking path around the Dachstein massif.
Exclusive found on the Dachstein massif, the Dachstein salamander is an amphibian. Small and dark in color, this salamander has a lifespan of up to 20 years and a length of almost 10 centimeters. Having evolved to fit the cold and wet conditions of the karst caves and springs, this is among the most isolated and specialized animals in the Alps. Active at night and winter hibernation, the Dachstein salamander exists in the Dachstein Ice Caves and the Dachstein Karst Plateau.
Respected and big mammal living in the high mountains of the Alps is the Alpine ibex. Rising to a height of one meter and weighing up to one hundred kg, this hoofed and horned animal Capable of easily ascending steep and rocky hills, this is among the most amazing and agile animals found in the Alps. Territorial and social, the Alpine ibex lives in groups of females and young as well as males during mating season. Particularly in the Hochwildstelle area, Alpine ibex can be found in the Schladminger Tauern and the Niedere Tauern.
Having a wingspan of up to 2.3 meters and a maximum speed of 320 kilometers per hour, this brown and golden-colored eagle is Highly revered and dominant in the Alps, this bird can hunt and kill animals far bigger than it is, including deer, foxes, and marmots. The territorial and solitary Golden eagle builds its nests in trees and cliffs. The golden eagle is especially seen in the Dachstein, the Schladminger Tauern, and the Niedere Tauern within the Gesäuse National Park.

Bodies of Water

Nestled in a hydrologically varied and plentiful area with many bodies of water is Haus im Ennstal. The area boasts rivers, glaciers, and lakes among other water bodies. Underground springs, melted snow, and precipitation abound in the area among other water sources. The area uses water for drinking, recreation, irrigation, power generation, and manufacturing among other uses. Among the most important bodies of water are several ones:

The main river of the area and the longest tributary of the Danube River is the Enns River It spans 254 kilometers and a 6,060 square kilometer drainage area. It starts in Salzburg’s Radstädter Tauern and travels through Styria and Upper Austria where it meets the Danube close to the town of Enns. Characterized by many rapids, waterfalls, and gorges, this fast-moving, turbulent river is Along with being historically and aesthetically pleasing, this river boasts many towns, castles, and bridges. Along with offering a range of activities including fishing, swimming, rafting, and kayaking, this river is used recreally.
Second-largest glacier in the Northern Limestone Alps and most visited glacier in the area is the Dachstein glacier. Its area is 20 square kilometers and its thickness might reach 200 meters. Situated between 2,700 and 1,700 meters on the northern slopes of the Dachstein massif, it This is a dynamic, perennial glacier that changes its form and size to fit the season and temperature. Offering a range of attractions, this glacier is also both scientific and touristically significant. Among these attractions are the Dachstein Glacier Lift, a cable car rising to the glacier, the Dachstein Ice Palace—a subterranean ice sculpture gallery, and the Dachstein Glacier Research Station, a facility tracking the state and developments of the glacier.
Little and beautiful lake Der Duisitzkarsee in the Untertal valley. Its area is 0.15 square kilometers and it can reach depths of up to 15 meters. Perched at 1,650 meters at the base of the Gumpeneck mountain, it Supplied by the melting snow and subterranean springs, the lake is a naturally occurring transparent body of water. This lake is also romantic and rather well-known. It is surrounded on its bank by a small hut, a wooden pier, and a circular hiking trail. Apart from that, this lake is fit for swimming and fishing; its varied and plentiful fish population includes carp, char, and trout.

Lakes

Bodies of Water

Haus im Ennstal is located in an area dotted with both natural and manmade lakes. Along with reservoirs and ponds, the area boasts a range of lakes including glacial and karst ones. The area benefits much from lakes in irrigation, hydroelectric power, water supply, and recreation. The most remarkable lakes are listed here:

Near the Salzburg border, in the Salzkammergut area, sits the naturally occurring Altausseer See. Its 2.1 square kilometer territory can reach a depth of up to 36 meters. Situated at 712 meters, at the base of the Loser mountain, it This lake boasts low nutrient concentration and good water quality, yet it is also clear and clean. Apart from that, it is a picturesque lake with a view of the Altaussee community and the nearby mountains. During World War II, it also saw a daring rescue operation when a group of Austrian resistance fighters stopped the Nazis from destroying a cache of pilfers of stolen artwork hidden in a nearby salt mine.
Near the Salzburg border sits another natural lake in the Salzkammergut area, the Grundlsee. Its area is 4.2 square kilometers and it can reach a depth of up to 103 meters. Situated at 711 meters, at the base of the Totes Gebirge mountain range, With a low water temperature and a great water volume, this is a large and deep lake. Along with a range of facilities and activities, including boat rentals, fishing, sailing, and swimming, this lake is also used recreally and for tourism.
Situated close to the Carinthia border, the natural lake Ödensee is part of the Niedere Tauern area. Comprising 0.13 square kilometers, it can reach a depth of up to 10 meters. Situated at 1,029 meters, at the base of the Speiereck mountain, it This is a low water level, shallow, small lake with great water transparency. Comprising part of the Natura 2000 network, this is also a mystical and protected lake. Among the many stories and legends connected to the lake are the myth of the sunken city beneath it and the one about the mermaid living there.
The Putterersee is manmade lake in the Enns basin close to Aigen im Ennstal. Its area is 0.25 square kilometers and its depth is up to six meters. At 640 meters above sea level, it lies right at the brink of the Enns valley. Built in the sixteenth century by damming the Palten river, this man-made, under control lake is Comprising a range of facilities and attractions including a beach, a playground, a mini golf course, and a camping site, this lake is also family-friendly and well-known.

Rivers and Streams

Bodies of Water

Haus im Ennstal is located in an area dotted with both big and little rivers and streams. Among the several rivers and streams in the area are glacial and karst rivers as well as brooks and creeks. Rivers and streams abound in the area for transportation, erosion control, drainage, and recreation among other purposes. Among the most prominent rivers and streams are the ones below:

A tributary of the Enns river, the Salza runs across the Enns basin area close to Großreifling. Comprising 1,150 square kilometers, the drainage area is 86 kilometers long. It starts in the Niedere Tauern and runs through the Gesäuse National Park, creating a stunning gorge there. This river boasts high water quality and a great flow rate; it is both wild and clear. Offering a range of pursuits including fishing, canyoning, rafting, and kayaking, this river is also both leisurely and exciting.
Near the town of Steyr, the Enns river’s tributary The Steyr flows through the Lower Enns valley. It covers a 1,020 square kilometre drainage area and is 68 km long. It starts in the Upper Austrian Prealps and runs through the Steyr-Land area where it meets the Enns close by town. With low water level and temperature, this is a calm and gorgeous river. With so many bridges, mills, and castles lining its course, this river is also rich in history and culture.
The Ramsauer Ache flows through the Upper Enns valley close to the town of Ramsau am Dachstein. Its length is 17 km and its drainage area is 110 square km. Starting on the Dachstein glacier, it runs across the Ramsau am Dachstein plateau where it creates a sequence of waterfalls. Low water volume and great water transparency define this cold, pure stream. Comprising the Ramsau am Dachstein Nature Park, a protected area preserving the alpine scene and biodiversity, it is also a tourist and ecological stream.