Blaa-Alm, Mountain pasture in Altaussee, Austria

Blaa-Alm is a mountain pasture in the municipality of Altaussee in Styria, at the western foot of the Loser in the southwest of the Totes Gebirge, at 894 m above sea level. The open pasture holds numerous alpine huts and a guesthouse. Its name refers to the mining and smelting of iron-manganese ores in the layered Dachstein limestone, where red clayey layers and fist- to head-sized ore nodules occur.

This mountain pasture has been used by local farmers across many generations, who brought their cattle here to graze during the warmer months. This form of alpine herding reflects ancient practices in the region that still shape the rhythm of rural life today.

The restaurant here serves regional specialties from the Ausseerland area, prepared using recipes passed down through generations. Diners sit surrounded by a traditional alpine landscape where this style of cooking has been part of daily life for centuries.

The pasture can be reached by a hiking trail of roughly 5 kilometers from Altaussee, with the path mainly leading through forests and mountain terrain. The restaurant operates on a seasonal schedule, so it is worth checking ahead before planning a visit.

The name Blaa-Alm comes from ore processing: a Blähofen was used to roast iron-manganese ores mined here. The ores occur as red, clayey layers and fist- to head-sized nodules in the layered Dachstein limestone; an analysis gave 18.6% manganese and 25.2% iron.