My First Three-Thousander

The journey begins with a ride into the Obersulzbachtal. From the Hopffeldboden car park, the National Park taxi takes you up to the Keesboden at almost 2,000 meters. From there, the ascent to the Kürsinger Hut begins, while your overnight luggage is conveniently transported by cable lift. Arriving at the Kürsinger Hut at 2,558 m, your mountain guide will give you a first briefing: you’ll learn how to move in a rope team, practice walking with crampons – and feel that special tingle that stays with you all the way to your bunk.

After a short night, the rope team sets off before sunrise. An hour later you reach the glacier entry. Across wide snowfields and the first crevasse zones, you climb together with your guide and new mountain friends up to the Venediger Scharte – the steepest section of the tour. And then: summit ridge. Summit cross. 3,657 meters of pure exhilaration.

The timeless majesty – a moment for eternity

And what do you feel up there? Pride. Goosebumps. Freedom. Nature in its raw, honest form. When a dream suddenly becomes reality, it takes a moment to grasp it all. You look around, let your gaze wander – over the Glockner Group, the Julian Alps, even to the Dolomites. Is it just as you always dreamed?

Richer by an unforgettable experience, you descend back to the Kürsinger Hut. The way down leads swiftly across the wide glacier fields (approx. 2.5 hours). Back at the hut, you take one last break, cast a final glance at the summit – and realize: you’ve grown beyond yourself. With gratitude you bid farewell to the timeless majesty and turn your gaze to the path still ahead.

After about 1½ hours you reach the cable lift, where the National Park taxi is already waiting. Around 5:00 pm you’re back at the car park – tired, fulfilled, and carrying an experience in your heart that you’ll never forget. Your very first three-thousander.

The Großvenediger ascent is a guided high-alpine tour that requires very good physical fitness. Should your mountain guide determine at the Kürsinger Hut that your strength is insufficient, he may advise against attempting the summit for safety reasons. Please respect this decision – it is made for your own safety and for the protection of the entire group.

To be best prepared, don’t forget appropriate clothing as well as sun and cold protection. This includes sunglasses, gloves, hat, gaiters, and, if necessary, a headlamp. We’ve compiled the most important information for you to download.

How difficult is the tour?

With a mountain guide and the right fitness, the route is technically moderate but alpine in character: glacier, crevasse zones, the Venediger Scharte, and a short summit ridge. Sure-footedness and a head for heights are essential.

What is included in the 1½-day tour?

Everything you need for your summit experience is already organized in the 1½-day tour. A certified mountain guide accompanies you throughout the entire tour, ensuring safety and thorough preparation. The overnight stay in the dormitory with half-board at the Kürsinger Hut is included, as is the taxi transfer from the Hopffeldboden car park to the end of the valley and back. You’ll also receive the necessary rental equipment such as harness, crampons, and helmet, so you are fully equipped.

Do I need my own crampons?

No. Crampons, helmet, and harness are included in the package. You only need to bring your own mountain boots and appropriate clothing. A packing list is available for download further below.

When is the best time?

From early July to the end of September – depending on snow and weather conditions. In summer you’ll find stable conditions, long daylight hours, and a route that is well manageable with a guide. Snow and firn fields are firm, the hut is serviced – perfect conditions for your first three-thousander. Current available dates can be found here >>

Can I do the tour on my own?

We recommend the Großvenediger ascent as a guided tour. Safety, route choice, and pace are coordinated by the mountain guide.

How large are the groups?

Between 5 and 8 people.

Where do I stay overnight?

At the Kürsinger Hut in dormitory-style accommodation with half-board. After the 1½-day tour, you return to Hotel Gassner and enjoy the rest of your holiday with this special summit feeling.