Start
Niederelbe Hut
Ziel
Darmstaedter Hut
Weg
To follow the normal route to the Darmstaedter Hut, follow the signs for the shorter route to the Darmstaedter Hut (signed out as 4 ½ hours). This route ascends persistently to the Sessladjoechli (Sesslad Saddle), and then drops you down to the brilliantly blue Kartell Reservoir. Once arriving at the Reservoir, turn left, (south) and follow the road until you see a sign for the "Füßweg" (foot path) to follow the stream and ascend to the hut.
Alternate: The Hoppe Seylerweg route (6.5 hours), which passes the Kieler Wetter Hut, is a beautiful and spectacular route that stays at a relatively high elevation. The route sees rather frequent rock slides (avoid in rain), and conditions of the trail change regularly. There is a high danger of rockfall. There are multiple spots along the trail where the trail has washed out, and there may be one or two exposed steps. While this is certainly the more spectacular route between the two huts, avoid it in rain, if there is a forecast of thunderstorms, or if anybody in the group is uncomfortable with exposure and unstable terrain. Be aware that rock fall can occur at any time. This route is well signed out and is only slightly longer with slightly more elevation gain than the Kartell Reservoir Route. Ask at the Niederelbe Hut regarding conditions.
Note: Although this hut does not officially participate in the Kulinarischer Jakobsweg program, we consider this hut to have some of the best food in the Alps. We strongly recommend trying their Knödels (dumplings).
