Attractions and Places To See around Hauptspeicher Kölnbrein - Top 10

The primary attractions center around the impressive Kölnbreinsperre Dam, Austria's tallest dam, and the thrilling Airwalk at the Kölnbrein Dam, a cantilever bridge offering panoramic views. The scenic Malta Hochalmstraße, which leads up to the dam, is also considered an attraction in itself, featuring tunnels and waterfalls.

Yes, the area offers several family-friendly options. The Kölnbreinsperre Dam and the Airwalk are accessible and engaging for families. Additionally, the Fallbach Water Adventure Park in the Maltatal provides water and mud playgrounds, a sensory platform, and a children's climbing wall. The Donkey Park Maltatal also offers interaction with over 100 donkeys.

The region is rich in natural beauty. You can discover the tranquil Rushing Glacier Stream, the impressive Waterfall at Kölnbreinspeicher, and numerous other waterfalls in the 'Valley of the Rushing Waters' (Maltatal). The deep-blue Kölnbrein Reservoir itself is a stunning sight, reflecting the surrounding Hohe Tauern peaks.

The area, situated within the Hohe Tauern National Park, offers a wide range of hiking trails. You can find easy walks along the reservoir, moderate routes like the Kölnbrein Dam – Osnabrücker Hut loop, or challenging tours up to three-thousand-meter peaks. The Malta Valley is also popular for rock climbing.

Absolutely. The region provides diverse routes for cyclists. You can find cycling tours around Hauptspeicher Kölnbrein, including moderate options like the Kölnbrein Dam – View of the Lake and Mountains loop. For mountain bikers, there are dedicated MTB trails, such as the Kölnbrein Reservoir – Osnabrücker Hut loop.

The Malta Hochalmstraße, which provides access to the dam, is generally open from early May to late October. This period offers the best conditions for enjoying the alpine landscape, hiking, and other outdoor activities. It's advisable to check specific opening hours for dam tours, especially during peak season.

Yes, beyond the engineering marvel of the dam itself, you can visit the Memorial for Workers of the Dam Project at Mooserboden Reservoir, which commemorates the individuals who lost their lives during the dam's construction. The Berghotel Malta also hosts exhibitions, including the 'VERBUND Energiewelt Malta' which details the hydroelectric power system, and a mineral exhibition.

The viewpoints around Hauptspeicher Kölnbrein offer breathtaking panoramic vistas. From the Airwalk at the Kölnbrein Dam, you get a thrilling perspective down 200 meters to the water and the surrounding Hohe Tauern landscape. Other spots provide views of the deep-blue reservoir, towering peaks, and cascading waterfalls.

Yes, the Berghotel Malta is located at the end of the Malta Hochalmstraße, offering culinary delights and stunning views. Additionally, several huts and mountain restaurants, such as the Osnabrücker Hut, Kattowitzer Hut, and Gmündner Hut, provide regional cuisine and hospitality, serving as excellent resting spots for hikers.

The duration of your visit can vary. A drive up the Malta Hochalmstraße and a visit to the dam, including the Airwalk and perhaps a quick tour, could take half a day. If you plan to include hiking, cycling, or exploring other attractions like the Fallbach Water Adventure Park or Donkey Park, you might want to dedicate a full day or even several days to the region.

The Malta Hochalmstraße is a 14.4-kilometer toll road that is an attraction in itself. It winds through a picturesque alpine landscape, featuring six unique rock-hewn tunnels, numerous hairpin bends, and several waterfalls. The drive offers stunning scenery, and traffic lights regulate single-lane sections, sometimes allowing you to view impressive waterfalls like the Maralmbachfall while waiting.