Wolayersee hut

The Carnic Alps hold a wealth of surprises in store for active explorers. One of them is Lake Wolayersee on the Carinthian side of the Carnic main ridge, near Plöcken Pass. On sunny days, the peaks of Hohe Warte, Seewarte and Seekopf are reflected in the glittering, turquoise-coloured waters of the lake. The lake is a geological peculiarity, as it is not fed by a spring, but consists of rain and meltwater that collects in a doline dating back to the Ice Age. Normally, this water would seep away through the rock, but here, it doesn't - much to the delight of modern-day hikers, who are able to enjoy the beautiful views across this idyllic mountain lake. A leisurely "Jause" with regional delicacies on the terrace of Wolayersee hut, gazing across the waters of the lake and the surrounding mountains, is a perfect way to while away the hours. But this popular day trip destination has even more to offer: the hut has several rooms and a dormitory with mattresses and is an important base for long-distance hikers on the Karnischer Höhenweg trail as well as passionate climbers, with two via ferratas leading up Hohe Warte. Hikers who prefer a less hair-raising approach can find out plenty of fascinating facts about the formation of this imposing mountain panorama on the geotrail. Wolayersee hut is a two and a half hour walk from Hubertuskapelle chapel in Wolayertal valley and a three-hour walk from the Untere Valentinalm pasture on Plöcken Pass.