UncategorizedFor adrenaline seekers and nature lovers, Treppe ins Nichts (“Stairway to Nothing”) is one of Austria’s most exhilarating attractions. Located in the stunning Dachstein Glacier area of Styria and Upper Austria, this skywalk offers a heart-pounding experience combined with breathtaking panoramic views of the Alps. With its glass-bottomed platform and dramatic location at the edge of a cliff, Treppe ins Nichts has become a must-visit destination for thrill-seekers and photographers alike.
A Unique Alpine Experience
Treppe ins Nichts is perched at an altitude of 2,700 meters on the Dachstein Glacier. Visitors reach the platform via the Dachstein Skywalk cable car system, which itself provides spectacular views over the surrounding alpine peaks, glaciers, and valleys. The attraction lives up to its name: a staircase seemingly suspended in mid-air, leading to a transparent platform where the ground drops away dramatically below.
The combination of height, sheer cliffs, and unobstructed views creates a feeling of stepping into infinity, making it both thrilling and awe-inspiring.
Architectural Highlights
The design of Treppe ins Nichts blends modern engineering with safety and visual drama:
Glass Floor Platform: The transparent floor allows visitors to look directly down at the glacier and cliffs below, enhancing the sense of floating in mid-air.
Steel Staircase: The “stairway to nothing” is made of robust steel and anchored securely into the mountainside, offering safety while maximizing the thrill.
Panoramic Viewing Area: At the top, the platform provides 360-degree views of the Dachstein Massif, Hallstatt region, and surrounding alpine valleys.
The minimalist design ensures that visitors’ attention is drawn entirely to the awe-inspiring natural scenery rather than the structure itself.
Thrill and Adventure
Visiting Treppe ins Nichts is not just about sightseeing—it’s an adventure in itself:
Adrenaline Rush: Stepping onto the glass platform can be thrilling even for seasoned travelers. The sheer drop below and the sense of openness create a unique experience.
Photography Opportunities: The dramatic setting and panoramic vistas make it a prime spot for breathtaking photos, perfect for social media or personal memories.
Combination with Other Attractions: The skywalk can be combined with a visit to the Eisriesenwelt Ice Cave or hiking trails in the Dachstein Glacier area for a full alpine adventure.
How to Reach Treppe ins Nichts
The platform is accessible via the Dachstein Krippenstein cable car from the town of Hallstatt or from the base stations in Obertraun. Visitors typically follow these steps:
Cable Car Ride: Ascend to the Dachstein Skywalk station while enjoying panoramic views of lakes, valleys, and peaks.
Short Hike: Depending on conditions, a brief walk may be required to reach the start of the staircase.
Step onto the Stairway: Ascend the Treppe ins Nichts and experience the heart-stopping platform at the edge of the cliff.
The combination of cable car ride, alpine scenery, and skywalk makes the journey itself an integral part of the adventure.
Best Time to Visit
The Treppe ins Nichts platform is open from late spring to early autumn, when snow and ice are manageable, and visibility is best. Summer months offer clear skies and mild temperatures, making it ideal for photography and hiking. Winter access is limited due to safety concerns, though the surrounding Dachstein Glacier area offers ski activities during the snow season.
Nearby Attractions
Visiting Treppe ins Nichts can be combined with other highlights in the Dachstein region:
Dachstein Glacier: Snow activities, hiking, and panoramic views all year round.
Hallstatt Village: A UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its lakeside charm and historic salt mines.
Ice Palace (Eishöhle): Explore fascinating ice caves beneath the glacier.
Five Fingers Platform: Another dramatic viewing platform nearby offering unique perspectives of the alpine landscape.
Conclusion
Treppe ins Nichts offers a once-in-a-lifetime adventure for thrill-seekers, nature lovers, and photographers. The combination of alpine beauty, sheer cliffs, and a glass-bottomed staircase creates an unforgettable experience that captures the majesty of Austria’s Dachstein Alps. Whether you’re stepping out for the adrenaline rush or simply enjoying the panoramic vistas, this “stairway to nothing” is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the Austrian Alps.
