We meet at the main entrance of Vienna’s central railway station, the ‘Hauptbahnhof’, before boarding the train to Semmering, when we have time to talk about the upcoming hike and to get to know each other better en route.

The first stage of our hiking route takes us from Semmering to what is arguably the most famous & spectacular viewpoint of the entire railway, one that was immortalized on the old 20 schilling note used in Austria before they adopted the euro. Perhaps the most impressive visual spectacle along the entire Semmering Railway (and there’s a lot of competition in this category!) is the mighty two-tiered Kalte Rinne Viaduct. While railway enthusiasts may already be aware of this magnificent feat of engineering, anyone can appreciate how beautifully it has blended with nature, thanks to the visionary designer, Carl von Ghega. At the end of the hike, we stop for much deserved refreshments at a traditional Austrian tavern, where beer is served – hooray! On our return journey back to Vienna we use regional trains to enjoy the rest of the mountain railway and its views at a nice steady pace. You’ll arrive back to Vienna’s main station at around 17:30.