One of Austria's Most Spectacular
If you were to list Austria’s most extraordinary viewpoints, the 5 Fingers Viewpoint on Dachstein Krippenstein would undoubtedly be among the top attractions. Located near the picturesque village of Hallstatt, this remarkable lookout offers not only breathtaking views but also an unforgettable experience that perfectly combines excitement and natural beauty.
The 5 Fingers Viewpoint is located on the northern side of the Dachstein Mountains, near the summit of Krippenstein, above the village of Obertraun. It can be reached via the Dachstein Krippenstein cable car, followed by an easy 20–30-minute walk from the second cable car station. The trail is well-maintained and suitable for most visitors, even those without hiking experience.
The viewing platform is designed to resemble a human hand, with five steel "fingers" extending approximately 400 metres (1,300 feet) above a dramatic cliff.
Each of the five platforms has its own unique feature:
One platform has a fully transparent glass floor, allowing visitors to look straight down into the abyss.
The fifth platform has an opening in the floor through which visitors can look directly down the vertical rock face.
On a clear day, the viewpoint offers spectacular panoramic views of Lake Hallstatt, the fairy-tale village of Hallstatt, and the mountains and lakes of the Salzkammergut region. The towering alpine peaks, dramatic limestone cliffs, and the stunning scenery far below create a landscape that is far more impressive in person than photographs can capture.
Once you've reached Krippenstein, it's worth exploring several nearby attractions, including:
the Welterbespirale (World Heritage Spiral) panoramic platform,
the Heilbronn Chapel,
the hiking trails across the Dachstein Plateau,
and the impressive Dachstein Giant Ice Cave and Mammoth Cave, located near the lower cable car station.
