Grossglockner — The Gamsgrubenweg Trail

Starting at the end of the high-alpine Grossglockner High Alpine Road (Kaiser-Franz-Josefs-Höhe), the Gamsgrubenweg is a masterpiece of high-altitude trail engineering. It contours high above the Pasterze, Austria's largest glacier, leading into the heart of the Hohe Tauern National Park. The trail passes through several tunnels built to protect hikers from rockfall, eventually opening into the vast, tundra-like 'Gamsgrube' (Chamois Pit), a special protection zone where the rare flora and fauna of the high Alps thrive in the shadow of the Grossglockner (3,798m).

Reykjadalur translates to 'Steam Valley,' an aptly named geothermal area where a moderate hike leads to a naturally heated river. Located near the town of Hveragerði (approx. 45 minutes from Reykjavík), this 7.4km round-trip route is a popular destination for those seeking an authentic outdoor soak. The trail ascends through rolling green hills, passing active geothermal features including mud pots and steaming vents. At the end of the well-marked path, cold mountain water merges with geothermal streams to create a swimmable river with various temperature zones. Visitors typically spend time soaking in the warm currents before returning via the same route.