Experience the Nature of Hochsteiermark
Hiking, (e-)biking, and more adventures
Hochsteiermark offers some of Styria’s most impressive natural experiences: from the alpine Hochschwab massif, with peaks rising above 2,200 metres, to the gently rolling, forested hills of Peter Rosegger’s Waldheimat. Whether hiking, cycling, forest bathing or following ancient pilgrimage routes, the natural landscapes of Hochsteiermark offer the perfect experience for everyone.
Explore Mürzer Oberland Nature Park
Mürzer Oberland Nature Park is one of Hochsteiermark’s most special regions. Located in the northeastern part of the green heart of Austria, it is surrounded by the summits of Rax, Schneealpe and Veitsch. You can also find expansive forests, lush green mountain pastures and picturesque river valleys there.
Two things are important at Mürzer Oberland Nature Park: environmental protection and enjoyment of nature. Both go hand in hand at the Nature Park, for instance on the “klimawandeln“ adventure trail or at the Forest of Senses. At the park’s 21 power places, you can smell, feel and hear nature from up close.
The varied NaturErlebnisProgramm offers nature lovers of all ages the chance to explore Alpine plants and animals. Whether it’s during a guided herbal hike or during a forest quiz for kids, there’s plenty to see, do and learn at Mürzer Oberland Nature Park!
The Mürzer Oberland Nature Park in is nestled between the impressive mountain peaks of the Rax, Schneealm and Veitsch. As one of Styria’s important protected natural areas, it is characterised by extensive forests, alpine pastures and picturesque river landscapes.
Outdoor activities in the nature park focus on two key aspects: nature conservation and experiencing the natural environment. The “klimawandeln” climate change experience trail and the Wald der Sinne (Forest of the Senses) show how perfectly the two can be combined. At 23 special nature and energy spots, visitors can discover the forest and natural surroundings through touch, sound and other sensory experiences.
Wandern in der Hochsteiermark
Hochsteiermark offers hiking trails for every taste – from alpine summit tours in the Hochschwab, Schneealm and Rax mountain areas to via ferratas, educational nature trails and guided herb hikes. At the heart of the region’s hiking network is the BergZeitReise, a 290-kilometre circular long-distance hiking trail with 15 stages, starting in Bruck an der Mur and leading through the entire Hochsteiermark region.
For families and leisure hikers, circular trails such as the Stanzer Sonnenweg in Stanz im Mürztal and the Romantic Bründlweg am Pogusch are ideal for exploring the landscape at a relaxed pace. Along the hiking trails, traditional mountain huts invite visitors to stop for a break and enjoy regional Styrian specialities such as Brettljause or Fedelkoch.
Cycling in der Hochsteiermark
From alpine mountain bike tours to leisurely riverside cycling routes, Hochsteiermark offers cycling experiences for every level. Mountain bikers can explore an extensive network of routes around the Schneealm and in the Weitental valley. At the wind+bike Park Pretul, 45 kilometres of trails lead through the mountain landscape and as far as the easternmost moor in the Alps. E-bike riders can enjoy a well-developed network of cycling routes with charging stations along the way.
Those who prefer flatter terrain can follow the Mürztal Cycle Path R5 through the Mürz Valley or continue along the Mur Cycle Path R2 towards Graz.
Pilgrimage in Hochsteiermark
The pilgrimage routes of Hochsteiermark in Styria, Austria, lead to the country’s most important pilgrimage church: the Basilica of Mariazell. The Mariazellerweg 06 is one of the best-known spiritual pilgrimage routes in Europe. The Mariazeller Gründerweg follows in the footsteps of Mariazell’s founder, passing chapels and small churches along the way. Another special destination is the Pilgrimage Cross on the Veitscher Ölberg in St. Barbara, the world’s largest accessible wooden cross.
Four selected pilgrimage routes can also be explored by bike, e-bike or gravel bike. Cycling pilgrimage is not about speed, but about travelling mindfully, taking time to experience the landscape and finding moments of reflection along the way.
Motorcycle and Classic Car tours in Hochsteiermark
Winding mountain passes, scenic roads with panoramic views and cultural stops make Hochsteiermark in Austria, an ideal region for motorcycle tours. Popular routes lead across the Pogusch and Seeberg mountain passes to Mariazell, one of Austria’s best-known meeting points for motorcyclists.
Classic car enthusiasts can explore Hochsteiermark on a scenic circular tour through the Mürzer Oberland Nature Park, across the Lahnsattel mountain pass and to Lake Erlaufsee. Traditional Styrian inns and award-winning restaurants along the way provide plenty of opportunities to stop and enjoy regional cuisine.
FAQ about Nature in Hochsteiermark
Hochsteiermark is characterised by three distinctive natural landscapes:
- the alpine Hochschwab massif in the north, with peaks rising above 2,200 metres,
- the Mürzer Oberland Nature Park, surrounded by the Rax and Schneealm mountains, and
- the forest-rich landscape of Peter Rosegger’s Waldheimat, surrounding the birthplace of the famous Austrian writer.
Mürzer Oberland Nature Park offers a wide range of outdoor activities and nature experiences, including hiking, cycling, mountain biking and forest bathing. Visitors can explore themed trails such as the “klimawandeln” climate change experience trail or discover nature through all the senses at the Wald der Sinne (Forest of the Senses). The mountains, forests, alpine pastures and river landscapes also provide plenty of opportunities for active days in nature.
Yes, Hochsteiermark offers plenty of opportunities for families to enjoy nature together. Easy themed hiking trails, family-friendly attractions and varied outdoor experiences make it easy to explore the region with children. The Mürzer Oberland Nature Park also offers educational nature experiences such as the Wald der Sinne (Forest of the Senses), which is suitable for both children and adults.
Hochsteiermark provides nature and outdoor experiences throughout the year. In spring, blooming landscapes invite visitors to explore the region. Summer is ideal for hiking, cycling and discovering Hochsteiermark’s diverse natural landscapes. In autumn, colourful forests and clear panoramic views create ideal conditions for hiking and culinary experiences. In winter, snow-covered alpine pastures and mountains provide a scenic setting for snowshoe hiking and a variety of other off-piste winter activities.
