The Upper Austrian Ennstal is a narrow, scenic river valley carved by the Enns through the Eisenwurzen region. It's a quiet alternative to high alpine peaks, ideal for those who enjoy a gentle riverside walk framed by steep wooded slopes.

The valley runs as a tight gorge for much of its length, with slopes dropping steeply, sometimes right down to the river, forming narrow terraces and cliffs. Further north, where the flysch zone begins, the valley widens into broader river terraces used for farming. The climate here is notably mild for a mountain valley, supporting orchards and meadows along the slopes. Forests are small and patchy, mostly spruce plantations, with ash trees lining the streams. Summers bring lush green pastures, autumn paints the orchards in warm colors, and winter offers peaceful, quiet views away from the usual mountain crowds.

How to get there

• Villages along the valley: Ternberg, Losenstein, Reichraming, Großraming, Weyer - reached via the Eisenstraße road (B115) on the right bank of the Enns, easy walking route along the river
• Alternatively, follow the railway line on the left bank of the Enns, with several stops allowing shorter walking sections

Good to know

• Six hydropower plants line the river with no fish passages, limiting the natural flow dynamics
• Fine sediment deposits with willow growth appear in the reservoir sections
• Parts of the terrace edges are protected for their valuable dry grassland habitats

Despite heavy human alteration of the river, cormorants still visit the valley occasionally, and the old orchards and dry grasslands on the slopes are remnants of traditional extensive mountain farming.