After our last adventure on the FILZ & MOOR picture book trail, it was clear that one visit is not enough to discover all the treasures of the FILZ & MOOR nature paradise on the Rossbrand in Filzmoos. So, Elias and I packed our rucksacks once again and set off to explore the moorland trail. and become certified moor researchers. In our luggage: the moor researcher's handbook, good humour and, of course, a supply of glucose sweets - for a little refreshment in between.
Even the ascent on the Papageno cable car is an experience in itself. As we glide leisurely up the mountain, Elias excitedly flicks through the manual while I marvel at the impressive backdrop of the Dachstein range and the Bischofsmütze. Elias and I agreed: this view was the perfect foretaste of what was to come!
Once we reach the top, our adventure really begins. We hike along paths covered with tree roots through the lush green of the high alpine moor and feel like real explorers. The moor researcher's handbook presents us with tricky questions about the moor and its mysterious inhabitants. Elias is eager to get stuck in and finds some answers faster than I can find the next supply of glucose sweets. Each of the numerous stations awaits us with lovingly designed information boards that not only impart facts and figures; but also arouse the interest of young and old naturalists.
Particularly fascinating are the many dragonflies that dance across the pools and the diversity of flora and fauna. Elias watches the dragonflies with shining eyes and suddenly says: ‘Mum, the dragonflies look like little helicopters!’ Indeed - their flying skills were impressive. Nevertheless, I managed to take a few snapshots of the nimble fliers. We continue along the path, marvelling at the colourful world of flowers and take a break at the viewing platform, where we treat ourselves to a cosy round on the swing. It is a moment of peace and amazement at the beauty of nature.
The way back to the mountain station takes us along a forest path with even more breathtaking views. Elias keeps stopping to ask: ‘Mum, look, isn't it beautiful?’ And yes, it really is. The Bischofsmütze mountain radiates a special calm and strength that we can both feel. To round things off, we treat ourselves to another - how could it be otherwise - portion of the best Kaiserschmarrn (chopped pancake dish) far and wide at the Schörgi Alm, which my son eats almost all by himself this time too - his growth spurt doesn't seem to be coming to an end any time soon, despite an extra 5 cm.
Back in the valley, we show the password at the ticket office of the Papageno Cable Car and Elias proudly accepts his Moor Explorer badge - a memento that he will certainly treasure for a long time. I, on the other hand, opt for a souvenir that not only looks nice; but also stays in my memory - a fridge magnet from the Cable Car shop, which will always remind me that adventures begin on my own doorstep.
Filzmoos and the Rossbrand have definitely cast a spell over us. And I am sure that not our last visit - because the FILZ & MOOR Moorland Trail has shown us that the adventure in nature never ends!
Info
You can find more information about the FILZ & MOOR moorland trail here.
photo credits: Anja Prommegger - Bergbahnen Filzmoos