Naturschutzgebiet Vellacher Kotschna

The imposing high valley of the Vellacher Kotschna, with its many springs and rich flora and fauna, was declared the second nature reserve in the municipality of Bad Eisenkappel. One is overwhelmed by the sight of the wild mountain massif. For a hike into the Vellacher Kotschna, one should be sure-footed and well-equipped. The entrance, secured with a steel cable, leads you up through the dwarf pine fields and scree slopes into the large cirque, strewn with meter-high boulders. Here, snow remains until summer. On the Sanntaler Sattel (2000 m) and the opposite Seeländer-Sattel (2034 m) – the southernmost point of Austria – one has a breathtaking view of the Steiner Alps and the Karawanken mountain range. The Vellacher Kotschna is also known for its floral splendor. Only specialists and survival artists of the animal and plant world inhabit and enliven this barren habitat. With a little luck and appropriate quiet, one can also observe a herd of chamois or the golden eagle, majestically circling high in the air.

Opening hours & season

• 01.06.2023 – 31.10.2023dailyopen all day
• 01.05.2024 – 31.12.2024dailyopen all day