Free Solo of Breitensteinfensterl

Topo from stadler-markus.de:

After doing the Breitenstein (1622 m) hike with David a while ago, I was fascinated by the rock formation called Breitensteinfensterl (1350 m), seeing photos of it online.

I started the hike the same way as for my trip to Breitenstein (1622 m), going up the forest road while passing other hikers. The weather was quite hot, and some of the passerby hikers took off their shirts to cool down. There were tons of bugs around, with butterflies fluttering everywhere.

At some point, I reached a fork in the road. While most hikers followed the wide path up to the main peak, I turned into high grass and bushes, following a smaller trail that led to the Breitensteinfensterl (1350 m). After I passed a few hikers with a dog right near the rock formation, I started to prepare for the climb.

The climb starts with a short section without any protection. You have to grab the rock and pull yourself up. After that, the cable starts, and you can clip in your via ferrata set. The climb is quite exposed, with wind constantly blowing on you. Next comes the Drahtseil, the narrow section with drops on both sides. Afterwards, it's a straightforward climb to the top.

All the thrill and adrenaline was worth it! Despite my shaky limbs and panicked voice, I enjoyed it immensely. Experience the entire ascent in a full 360° view below. This feature is compatible with all devices; however, mobile users with a gyroscope can simply tilt their phones to pan around. To ensure the highest quality, please select a high-resolution setting via the gear icon. Captions are available as well!

After collecting myself at the top, I headed back down the same way I came up. The descent was even scarier, having to backtrack the exposed sections. But I managed to make it down safely. As I reached the base, another pair of older hikers came up to pass by the rock formation. I decided to have some snacks and take in the view while talking to them.

Although I came to climb the Breitensteinfensterl (1350 m), I still had a lot of energy left. So, I continued up to the main Breitenstein (1622 m) peak, following a small trail between trees and rocks. It seemed like a popular spot for rock climbers, as many of the rocks had markings on them.

Eventually, I reached the bare hillside of the mountain, with a clear view of the surroundings. The whole slope was covered in berries, which I happily picked up and ate. Thankfully, I had brought enough water to wash them down. Soon, I saw the summit cross of Breitenstein Westgipfel (1575 m), with some hikers on the surrounding rocks.

I ate my last snack at the summit, enjoying the panoramic view of the mountains. I started feeling thirsty again, but I had no water left after eating the berries. I had several choices: ask other hikers for water, go back down to Birkenstein in search of a water source, or continue to the main Breitenstein (1622 m) peak and hope to find water in the nearby hut.

The closest hut was near the main summit, so I decided to continue there. The trail leading there was quite interesting, with a small section going through the bushes. I had to jump over a small hole between the rocks, which made the route more fun. Finally, I reached the summit of Breitenstein (1622 m), where I stayed just for a moment to take in the view. It was nice seeing Wendelstein (1838 m) in the distance again.

I headed down to Hubertushütte, hoping to get a drink there. However, the hut was already closed for the day, so I had to proceed. I knew my last option for getting water was at the Kesselalm (1278 m), so I hurried down the trail to get there before it closed.

When I reached the hut, there were only two people sitting outside. I quickly entered and asked if they were still open. The lady nodded and told me to order quickly, as they were about to close. I ordered some Skiwasser and a glass of Almdudler, which I drank eagerly. The hiker toilets were also closed for the day, but they kindly let me use the ones inside the hut.

After refreshing myself, I started the final descent back to Birkenstein. I took the same trail as on my Easter hike to Schweinsberg (1514 m), so I was familiar with the route. The walk was peaceful, with the sun setting behind the hills. I reached Birkenstein just a few minutes before the bus drove by, so I took it back to the train station.

All in all, it was a great hike with an unforgettable climb. I would only recommend the climb to experienced hikers with a good head for heights, as it is not for the faint of heart. But if you are up for the challenge, the Breitensteinfensterl (1350 m) is definitely worth the effort! And the rest of the hike is accessible to all hikers, with beautiful views and interesting trails. You also have an option to turn west from Breitenstein Westgipfel (1575 m) and go down to the famous Café Winklstüberl.