Finsterbach waterfalls – Hiking path
An excursion to the Finsterbach waterfalls offers a special kind of nature experience. The waterfalls are located on the northern shore of Lake Ossiacher See and are particularly suitable for families and it is one of our insider tips. On the way to the three waterfalls, guests can relax, enjoy a refreshing cool-down, listen to the impressive sound of the water and discover breathtaking viewpoints.
Route description
From the tourist information centre in Sattendorf, we set off at a leisurely pace, first along the federal road (Bundestraße), then along the village road (Dorfstraße) to the waterfall trail. Going slightly uphill, we follow the path to the entrance of the Finsterbachgraben and soon reach the first waterfall, the Finsterbach Falls, where it is pleasantly cool on hot days.
The path leads briefly and steeply uphill on the left-hand side of the stream, past several turns to the second waterfall, the Kessel Falls, which is 21 metres high and the smallest of the three waterfalls, but no less impressive. The two are only about five minutes' walk apart. The wind whistles around your ears here, as the falling masses of water cause an air movement that is perceived as a stronger wind due to the location of the basin. A retention basin serves to regulate the volume of water.
To get to the third waterfall, we have to go back to the main path and then walk uphill a bit until we reach a turning. Now simply follow the signs and continue into the Finsterbach gorge, a fairytale forest of linden trees, acorns and elms. Between the trees you often have a wonderful view of Lake Ossiacher See. The gorge has a special microclimate with special typs of plants that have adapted to the humidity, as well as mosses and ferns. We walk over two wild and romantic bridges on the hiking trail to the foot of Schleier Falls. With its height of 34 metres and impressive drop, it is a great natural spectacle. With a bit of luck, you can see the most beautiful rainbows here. The same path leads back to the last junction. At this point, we have the option of extending the hike a little and taking path no. 2 to a wonderful viewing point with a picture frame, or we can take the path (no. 34) back to Sattendorf.
Tip: It's worth extending the hike a bit. Once you reach the highest point of the tour, you can enjoy the view and relax.
Be careful! Risk of slipping in wet conditions.
Further information
