At 200 metres, the Kölnbrein Dam is Austria’s highest dam. In Malta, the range extends from an engineering structure and gorge and waterfall landscapes to a nature trail and details of cultural history. If you are looking for accommodation in Malta, you can first consider what you would like to focus on during your stay: a drive along a road with rock tunnels and hairpin bends, a themed trail with stopping points, a via ferrata or cultural history. These options offer different ways to experience the area and help you narrow down your choices before looking for hotels.

Waterfall Landscape and Themed Trail

The Malteiner Wasserspiele nature trail leads into the gorge and waterfall landscape of the Hinteres Maltatal valley. The themed trail has 18 stopping points and ends at the Blauer Tumpf in Schönau. The stopping points divide the route into sections, while the named endpoint gives you a clear sense of direction. The Blauer Tumpf can also be reached via the Malta Hochalmstraße. This means there are two different options for reaching this destination: a trail with 18 stopping points and a drive. Road conditions can vary, so check them before setting out.

The Melnikfall plunges around 300 metres down over several rock ledges; the Fallbach waterfall drops down a rock face almost 200 metres high. The almost 200-metre-high rock face at Fallbach is on a similar scale to the 200-metre-high Kölnbrein Dam, while the Melnikfall descends further, over around 300 metres. Their formations also differ: the Melnikfall is shaped by several rock ledges, while the Fallbach is defined by its rock face. This allows you to distinguish between these natural features by their form and scale.

The Drive to the Kölnbrein Dam

The 14.4-kilometre Malta Hochalmstraße winds through rock tunnels carved from stone, over hairpin bends and past roaring waterfalls on its way to the Kölnbrein Dam. If you plan the drive as an experience in itself, the route offers tunnels, bends and waterfalls as well as the destination. Visitors can take a guided tour of the dam wall at the Kölnbrein Dam. Check whether tours are available before your trip.

Active and Cultural Experiences

The Fallbach via ferrata is recommended only for experienced via ferrata climbers. This recommendation makes your own experience an important factor in deciding whether to go; bear it in mind before planning the climb.

The Maltatal Donkey Park is home to more than 100 animals of various breeds. Visitors can walk around the park, which is suitable for wheelchair users. The animals can be petted, and adventurous children can try riding them. The donkey park offers a distinct focus alongside the waterfalls and scenic drives.

The parish church of Malta was built between the 13th and 15th centuries. A 14th-century fresco of Saint Christopher is located on the exterior of the south choir wall. The church therefore spans a broad construction period, while the fresco provides a specific point of reference in time. For those interested in culture, the church’s architectural history and a particular wall painting are part of the same subject area.

Discover more destinations: Rangersdorf, Mallnitz, Obergottesfeld, Stall, Sappl, Döbriach, Eisentratten, Aschbach

Return to the regional travel overview: Spittal An Der Drau.