Off-piste activities | Winter

The Eco Lodge is located in the centre of a winter paradise - surrounded by snow-covered forests, glistening peaks and fantastic opportunities to enjoy the cold season to the full. Whether you want to be active in sports or relaxed and close to nature - unforgettable moments await you right on the doorstep. Be inspired by our winter tips around the lodge and discover the variety that makes your stay so special.

Farm circuit

A small, lovingly tended nature experience begins directly in front of the lodge: the Höflehner farm circuit. The leisurely walk takes you around the hotel grounds and invites you to discover our animal world up close - from dwarf goats to alpacas and our red deer in the enclosure. The farm tour is a special experience, especially for families with children - here you can marvel and observe. But those seeking peace and quiet and nature lovers will also find relaxing spots with a view, cosy benches and insights into alpine life on the Gumpenberg.
Please note: you cross the piste once on the farm circuit. Please pay particular attention to ski operations here and always cross with caution.

Winter hike to the Knapplhütte

Set off directly from the lodge on a leisurely winter hike through the snow-covered mountains - your destination is the rustic Knapplhütte. The easy winter hiking trail leads through an idyllic landscape, past snow-covered trees, wide slopes and marvellous views of the Enns Valley. On the way to the hut, you cross the ski piste twice - please pay particular attention to the ski operation here and always cross with caution. After about [approx. 1 hour] you will reach the Knapplhütte - the perfect place for an enjoyable break in the midst of the winter wonderland.

Red deer enclosure

A real highlight for nature lovers and families: the hotel's own red deer enclosure right next to the Nature and Wellness Hotel Höflehner. For generations, the Höflehner family has looked after its own herd of red deer with much love and respect - a piece of living tradition on the Gumpenberg. We invite you to the red deer feeding - an impressive experience where you can observe the majestic animals at close range and learn exciting facts about their way of life, behaviour and husbandry.
Participation is only possible with advance booking, registration at the hotel reception

Farm tour

Hike to the Knapplhütte

Deer feeding

Cross-country skiing

Just a few minutes' drive from the lodge is the cross-country skiing paradise of Ramsau am Dachstein - one of the most renowned cross-country skiing regions in Europe. Nordic winter sports in its most beautiful form await you on around 220 kilometres of perfectly groomed trails - with fantastic views of the Dachstein massif and trails of all levels of difficulty.
How to get there: You can easily reach Ramsau by car in approx. 20 minutes - our hotel reception team will be happy to help you with any queries.

Tobogganing

If you want to enjoy winter away from the ski slopes, you'll get your money's worth tobogganing on the Hochwurzen. The 7 km long, perfectly groomed natural toboggan run is one of the most popular in the Schladming-Dachstein region - and offers fun and action for the whole family. Whether during the day in the sunshine or by floodlight in the evening - the descent promises winding adventures and plenty of good humour. Toboggans can be conveniently hired on site, while the ascent is a relaxed affair on the Hochwurzenbahn gondola lift.
Tip: Night tobogganing is a very special highlight - with an illuminated run, wintry atmosphere and a stop at a mountain hut for the perfect finale.

Ice skating

When the temperatures drop, the Schlossplatz square in the centre of Haus im Ennstal is transformed into an atmospheric ice skating rink for young and old. Just a few minutes' drive from the Eco Lodge, you can enjoy ice skating fun against a picturesque backdrop - ideal for families, couples or anyone who wants to experience winter away from the ski piste. Skate hire is available on site.
Tip for those who want more:
If you prefer a slightly larger area, a trip to Lake Putterersee in Aigen im Ennstal is worthwhile - one of the warmest moor lakes in the Alps, which is open for ice skating in winter when the conditions are right.
Please note:
The ice rinks are weather-dependent - up-to-date information on when the ice is open is available at the hotel reception.

Cross-country skiing in Ramsau

Tobogganing

Ice skating in Haus im Ennstal

Horse-drawn sleigh ride

Experience winter from its quietest and most romantic side - on a horse-drawn sleigh ride through the snow-covered landscape of the Schladming-Dachstein region. Wrapped up in warm blankets and accompanied by the gentle sound of hooves, you glide through magical winter forests, past glistening meadows and snow-covered mountain huts. Whether as a romantic experience for two or a cosy family outing - a sleigh ride remains an unforgettable holiday highlight.
Booking & information:
Please contact reception at the Hotel Höflehner directly to arrange an appointment and for all other details.