by Kurt Schal
Schall-Verlag, Wien, June 2006 & 7.   ISBN 3900533474  € 35.

Schall-Verlag have produced many books on climbing, skiing and ski tours and now the ‘definitive’ KIettersteig Atlas of Austria. The book is produced in two versions, a standard size bound guide book (720g) or a loose leaf folder. Both offer the same information, with the obvious advantage that individual climbs may be removed from the folder and taken along. The first edition has proved to be so popular a new edition was released in July 2007 with many new routes.

The book starts with a general overview of the regions to help plan the day or trip followed by a summary of each route. The regions are then described in detail with some very good maps and excellent route diagrams. Regardless of your level of German you should be able to understand this book with minimum effort. The book version has an easy access page of all the symbols used. Information such as length of walk in and out, vertical height to be climbed, approximate climbing time, suitability for children and direction faced all precede the climb descriptions. There is a separate grading system for condition, arm strength(!), technique, physiological aspect and mountain skills needed.

I have climbed many of these routes and have found the information to be accurate and balanced. Maps and topo drawings have been very exact. Updates and new routes can also be accessed direct from Schall’s web site, a plus for the loose leaf version of the book. www.schall-verlag.at

My only criticism is that with most international guide books an explanation/ introduction in English is normal. The Klettersteig Atlas doesn’t have one. The least it could have had would be a translation of the symbols. However, most of Kurt Schall’s other books have no information translated so I guess he is aiming for the home market! Overall I recommend this book to anyone who wants to discover Austria’s vast network of KIettersteige. With 200 climbs listed, ranging from light to extreme there is something for everyone.

Reviewed by Mark Ryder 

The  AAC(UK) Office has obtained copies of this guidebook for sale to members and we have translated the  Key into English as a downloadable pdf file. Members (only) may contact the Office for purchasing details.