Fantastic hike up the Ameisstein and around the Almsee in the Salzkammergut

The Almsee invites you to enjoy it at any time of year - even in winter!

On New Year's Eve, Shaggy and I set off very early in the morning to the Almsee to collect the summit of the Ameisstein and then hike around the Almsee. The Almsee in Grünau im Almtal is a very popular place - and rightly so! The landscape is an absolute dream and the hikes in the surrounding area are an unforgettable experience for everyone. This was also the case for Shaggy and me - because we wanted to go back up the Ameisstein directly on the Almsee, which we have already visited several times. 🏞️

The hike is generally very easy - but increased caution is required in winter, because either there is black ice in places, or the snow in combination with the foliage makes the Ameisstein a little - let's put it this way - more challenging. ⚠️

For us, the tour started early in the morning as we wanted to see the sunrise. So for the first 30 minutes, we couldn't do anything without a head torch. 😅🌄

Be sure to check out my reel including drone shots on Instagram 📸🚁

The hike up the Ameisstein and around the Almsee in the Almtal in the Salzkammergut

So if you fancy a leisurely hike in the Almtal, but don't want to miss out on any of the peaks or lakes, you'll get your money's worth here. The Almsee offers an almost kitschy backdrop in summer and a breathtaking snow and ice landscape in winter. 🧊

It also happens that many nature enthusiasts go to the partially frozen lake to go sledging, shoot curling sticks or simply get an adrenaline rush. But this should never be done lightly - the conditions must always be thoroughly checked beforehand! Nothing gets me up onto the frozen Almsee. 😄❄️

Start of the hike around the Almsee and access to the Ameisstein

The start of my tour to the Ameisstein and Almsee starts in the traditional way at the car park at the end of the Almsee (see also my Komoot tour at the end of the article). From there, the route goes anti-clockwise around the lake until you reach the start of the Ameisstein after just a few metres. After the summit, you return along the same path for a short distance until you reach the Almsee lake and then head anti-clockwise around the lake for one half (unfortunately) on the road. At the end of the lake, you cross a bridge and arrive at the cosy hiking trail of the Almsee. 🚶🏼‍♀️

Key data for the tour around the Almsee and up the Ameisstein

✅ approx. 10 km
✅ approx. 250 hm
✅ approx. 2.5 - 3 h pure walking time
✅ Parking spaces available (some subject to charge)
✅ Suitable for children and dogs
✅ Public WC at the car park
It's best to bring your own snacks
⚠️ Caution in winter: Danger of slipping and black ice
⛔️ Not suitable for pushchairs or wheelchairs
⛔️ Never step unsuspectingly onto a frozen lake

⚠️ ATTENTION: We expressly point out that we accept no liability for accidents or possibly closed trails. Before hiking, check the availability of the trail and reflect on your own fitness.

Arrival and parking facilities at the Almsee in Almtal

Getting here by car is relatively straightforward. I came from the direction of Vorchdorf and drove the whole way along the main road until I reached the car park at the end of the lake. 🚗

The Almsee can also be reached by public transport! You can find the public transport connections further down in this blog post.

Car parks and parking facilities at the Almsee

There are several free car parks along the Almsee, but there is also a larger car park at the end of the lake, which is subject to a charge. I like to start right at the end of the lake, which is why I opted for the paid car park. This costs 5 for one day (as of January 2026). 🅿️

Check out public transport right now

Refreshment stops at the Almsee

Unfortunately, I was unable to find out whether any of the nearby places to stop for refreshments also offer plant-based dishes, which is why I will not mention any places to stop here. Please just bring your own snack and a nice coffee in a thermos flask, then you are definitely on the safe side. 🥪☕️

Summary of the hike up the Ameisstein and around the Almsee lake

The hike is highly recommended. If you are looking for a leisurely tour and still want to be rewarded with the best views, this is the perfect place for you. The nature reserve in the Almtal in the Salzkammergut is simply ideal for all ages and families. Shaggy and I were able to enjoy the sunrise this time and are already looking forward to the next time we go back to the Almsee. ✨🏔️

Komoot tour Almsee to follow yourself

Further recommendation

Did you like this post? Then I've got another great hiking tip for you! 🤩 Have a read here: Hochplettspitz mountain hike and Hollerberg viewing platform in Unterach am Attersee