Schafbergbahn
Austria's steepest historic steam cog railway
The Schafbergbahn is a historic steam cog railway located in St. Wolfgang im Salzkammergut, Austria. Opened in 1893, it is Austria’s steepest steam rack railway and features some of the world's oldest operational rack locomotives. The 5.85-kilometer journey ascends 1,190 meters to the 1,783-meter-high Schafberg summit in approximately 35 minutes. The railway is operated by Salzburg AG and is not electrified, preserving its traditional steam experience.
The mountain is renowned as the most scenic viewpoint in the Salzkammergut region. On clear days, visitors can enjoy 360-degree panoramic views of surrounding lakes, including the Wolfgangsee, Irrsee, Mondsee, Fuschlsee, and Chiemsee, as well as mountain ranges such as the Höllengebirge, Dachstein, and Watzmann. At the summit, guests can visit the Hotel Schafbergspitze and the Himmelspforte shelter, which features a terrace for snacks and drinks.
The railway operates daily from April 25 to November 1, with specific timetables available online. While the Guest Mobility Ticket covers ferry services, it does not cover admission to the Schafbergbahn; a regular ticket is required. Pets are welcome on board. On-site dining is available at Café & Restaurant EQ, with varying hours depending on the day of the week. This historic transport option offers a unique way to experience the natural beauty of the region, combining engineering heritage with breathtaking alpine scenery.
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Hours & Fees
Hours
Daily from April 25 to November 1, 2026; specific timetables available online
Admission
Regular ticket required (guest mobility ticket not
Nearby Attractions
Other places to visit in St. Wolfgang
Quick Facts
Best Time to Visit
Austria enjoys a Mediterranean climate with warm summers and mild winters, making it ideal for visiting year-round.