Mariazellerland Region

Pilgrimage, family experiences, leisure and nature around Mariazell

Mariazellerland lies in the north of Styria, on the border with Lower Austria. At its heart is Mariazell, Austria’s most important pilgrimage destination, best known for its famous basilica. The area around Mariazell offers a wide range of activities, from hiking and skiing on Mariazell Bürgeralpe and Gemeindealpe to swimming and boating on Lake Erlaufsee and scenic journeys on the Mariazell Railway, Austria’s longest narrow-gauge railway.

Pilgrimage, living traditions, family experiences, outdoor activities and regional cuisine are part of Mariazellerland throughout the year. Enjoy the Mariazell Advent in winter, then explore hiking trails, local attractions and sunny days by the lake in the warmer months.

Mariazellerland at a Glance

Location: Northern Styria, on the border with Lower Austria
Regional centre: Mariazell, around 868 metres above sea level, with its basilica as a well-known landmark
Highlights and experiences: Mariazell Basilica, Bürgeralpe, Lake Erlaufsee, Lake Hubertussee, Gemeindealpe and Pirker gingerbread
Getting there by car: Around 1 hour 45 minutes from Graz and 2 hours 15 minutes from Vienna
Getting there by train: 84 km from St. Pölten on the Mariazell Railway
Best time to visit: Year-round, for hiking, pilgrimage, swimming, skiing, ice fishing or the Mariazell Advent, depending on the season

Advent in Mariazell

November 19 to December 20, 2026

As the scent of gingerbread and mulled cider fills the main square and the world’s largest suspended Advent wreath glows with its 24 candles, the Mariazell Advent opens its doors. One of Austria’s largest and most traditional Christmas markets, it brings the Advent season to life with regional crafts, a live nativity scene, concerts in the basilica and the Bürgeralpe Magic of lights

Discover more about the Advent in Mariazell

Bürgeralpe Magic of lights

At 1,270 metres above sea level, the Bürgeralpe Light Show transforms the winter landscape above Mariazell into a sparkling world of winding light trails, illuminated trees and glowing sculptures. A romantic water show on the mountain lake and the talking book add to the experience, while the mountain inn and cosy hot drinks offer a chance to warm up along the way.

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Winter in Mariazellerland

Winter in Mariazellerland is all about snow and ice, crisp mountain air and active days in the snow-covered landscape. Enjoy skiing on the well-groomed slopes of Bürgeralpe and Gemeindealpe.

Other winter activities include tobogganing, ice skating, ski touring, cross-country skiing and ice stock sport. For something a little different, try ice diving or ice fishing.

Anything missing? Of course, winter hiking. Explore the picturesque winter scenery with or without snowshoes, or enjoy a leisurely walk along the shores of Lake Erlaufsee or Lake Hubertussee.

The Mariazell Railway

The most scenic way to reach Mariazellerland

Austria’s longest narrow-gauge railway runs 84 kilometres from St. Pölten through the Pielach Valley and Ötscher-Tormäuer Nature Park to Mariazell, passing through spectacular scenery along the way.

Travel comfortably and sustainably aboard the modern Himmelstreppe train, or enjoy breathtaking views from the first-class panoramic carriage. Regional breakfast and local specialities are available to order in advance. Families love the Ötscherbär adventure train, which runs on selected dates. Convenient combined tickets pair the train journey with attractions such as Bürgeralpe and Gemeindealpe.

Bicycles can also be taken on board, making it easy to combine a train ride with cycling tours through Mariazellerland.

In 2025, the Mariazell Railway was named “Austria’s Most Beautiful Place.”

Whether you’re planning a day trip, a weekend break or a longer stay, the Mariazell Railway offers a memorable and relaxing way to explore the region.

Mariazell and Pilgrimage

Pilgrimage, tradition, the basilica and remarkable routes

According to legend, Mariazell’s story began in 1157, when the Virgin Mary split a boulder in two for the monk Magnus. This opened the way to a hill where Magnus built a small hermitage for himself and the statue of Mary he had brought with him. Over the centuries, that humble cell grew into the magnificent Mariazell Basilica. The trunk on which Magnus is said to have placed his Madonna can still be seen in the basilica’s Chapel of Grace.

Today, Mariazell is one of Europe’s most important pilgrimage destinations. The basilica, home to the revered statue of the Magna Mater Austriae, welcomes pilgrims from many countries and remains at the heart of Mariazellerland in Hochsteiermark. Around the basilica, shops offer a chance to browse for religious keepsakes and devotional items such as crosses, rosaries and saint figurines.

Numerous pilgrimage routes lead to Mariazell on foot or by bike, including the Mariazellerweg 06 and routes for cycling pilgrims.

Cultural highlights

Geschichte, Kultur und besondere Orte im Mariazellerland

For anyone interested in sacred art, the pilgrimage town of Mariazell is a treasure trove. A visit to the world-famous Mariazell Basilica is a highlight, with its Chapel of Grace and treasury chambers.

Another popular attraction is the Mariazell Local History Museum, home to exhibitions on natural history and hunting. The Natural History Museum introduces visitors to the region’s diverse flora and fauna and the history of Mariazell as a pilgrimage destination. The Hunting Museum explores different traditions of hunting among rural communities, townspeople and the aristocracy.

Local customs, music and events are also part of cultural life in Mariazellerland. This heritage is especially vivid during the Mariazell Advent, with atmospheric concerts, regional specialities and the world’s largest suspended Advent wreath.

Events in the Mariazellerland region

Culinary delights from Mariazellerland

Traditional Specialities with a Long History

In Mariazell, recipes passed down through families often span generations. This is true of the Pirker family’s honey gingerbread, which visitors can see being made at the erLEBZELTEREI, and of Mariazell stomach liqueur from the Caj. Arzberger liqueur distillery. The Apotheke zur Gnadenmutter, founded in 1718, is known for its original Mariazell digestive drops.

Looking for more regional products from Mariazellerland? You’re sure to find something at the Mariazellerland Genuss-Laden.

Welcome at any time of the year: relaxation

Are you tired from hiking? Or looking for a break from skiing? Then it’s time for some well-earned relaxation! For instance, how about a sauna visit or a soothing massage?

Relaxation in the Mariazellerland region

Summer in Mariazellerland

Wandern, Familienerlebnisse und erfrischende Auszeiten

Mariazell and its surroundings are a paradise for outdoor activities. In summer, enjoy hiking on Mariazell Bürgeralpe or Gemeindealpe.

Around Lake Erlaufsee, swimming, boating, stand-up paddleboarding and other water sports offer a refreshing break on warm days. Take a scenic trip on the Christina excursion boat, or ride the historic steam-powered Museum Tramway from Mariazell directly to the lake. For a bird’s-eye view of the lake and its surroundings, head to the Mariazell Forest High Ropes Course.

Mariazell Bürgeralpe is also home to the exciting WanderWunderWald, with Holzknechtland, the JOLLY climbing park, Biberwasser, the Wald8erBahn, archery and more.

Cyclists and mountain bikers will find plenty to enjoy in Mariazellerland, whether they prefer a challenging ride or a leisurely outing. Explore the cycling and mountain biking routes.

Trip ideas: Discover the top five places of natural energy and the top ten AUGENblicken scenic spots.