Cycling pilgrimage Mariazell | © TV Hochsteiermark | Roman Königshofer Cycling pilgrimage Mariazell | © TV Hochsteiermark | Roman Königshofer
© TV Hochsteiermark

Cycling Pilgrimage Hochsteiermark

Over the mountains of Hochsteiermark to Mariazell

Across varied routes through forests, over alpine meadows and along scenic landscapes, the paths lead past quiet places of power — step by step, or rather: pedal by pedal, toward Mariazell.

Whether by e-bike or gravel bike, this special form of pilgrimage combines movement with mindfulness. Instead of speed, the focus is on conscious travel, experiencing nature and inner reflection.

Maraizell Cycling Pilgrimage | © TV Hochsteiermark | Roman Königshofer
Maraizell Cycling Pilgrimage | © TV Hochsteiermark | Roman Königshofer

What is cycling pilgrimage?

Cycling pilgrimage means traveling by bicycle and consciously experiencing the journey along the way. It combines physical activity, immersion in nature and inner reflection. Instead of speed, the focus is on mindful travel — with time for breaks, encounters and personal thoughts. Cycling pilgrimage means both being on the way and arriving: within oneself and at a place of centuries-old significance.

Cycling pilgrimage routes Hochsteiermark

4 tours – 1 destination

Four selected routes lead through the Hochsteiermark region, across valleys, alpine meadows and mountains, through villages and to spiritual places. Whether starting from the Semmering Pass, crossing the Fischbacher Alps, following the Mur Cycle Path or the Traisental Cycle Path, each route has its own character.

And yet they all share one goal: the journey to Mariazell, Austria’s most important pilgrimage destination. In total, the routes cover 250 kilometers and 4,800 meters of elevation gain. Along the way, wide views open up towards the Hochschwab, the Rax, and the Hohe Veitsch.
With every kilometer travelled, the journey becomes quieter — not only outside, but also within.

On the star pilgrimage routes to Mariazell

Arrival in Mariazell

The basilica and the pilgrimage tradition have shaped Mariazell for decades, complemented by regional specialties such as gingerbread from the Pirker family and the well-known Mariazell herbal liqueur from Kaufhaus Caj. Arzberger.

In and around Mariazell, the Erlaufsee, the Hubertussee, and the surrounding mountain landscape offer a wide range of opportunities for additional bike tours and nature experiences.

On the Bürgeralpe Mariazell, visitors can also explore the exciting WanderWunderWald with Holzknechtland, the JOLLY climbing garden, Biberwasser, the Wald8erBahn, and many other attractions.

For a truly relaxing experience, Mariazell offers a wide range of accommodation and dining options — from cosy inns and cafés to restaurants. Those who stay overnight can experience the town and its surrounding nature even more intensely.

Maraiazell Cycling Pilgrimage | © TV Hochsteiermark | Roman Königshofer
Cycling Pilgrimage to Mariazell | © TV Hochsteiermark | Roman Königshofer

Accommodation along the route

Cyclist-friendly accommodation

Along the cycle pilgrimage routes, there are cycle-friendly accommodation options tailored to the needs of cycling travellers. These include secured bicycle parking, flexible check-in and check-out times, and convenient locations along the routes. This makes it easy to plan your trip with peace of mind and ensures you can relax and unwind along the way.

Cycling Pilgrimage to Mariazell | © TV Hochsteiermark | Roman Königshofer

Bike-Taxi Mariazell

The Bike-Taxi in Mariazell offers a convenient, paid return transport service, including bike transport, to the railway stations at Bruck an der Mur and Mürzzuschlag. Ideal for cyclists and groups after a tour in the Hochsteiermark region. Transport is available for up to 8 people. Journeys are available only upon advance booking.

Price: from 2 people € 70 per person, from 4 people € 35 per person.

Taxi Schweighofer: 
taxischweighofer@gmail.com | +43 660 8524892 

Taxi Scheucher:
texischeucher@gmx.at | +43 664 4837688 

It's time to explore new paths

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More cycling experiences

The Hochsteiermark is a paradise for mountain biking: here you’ll find the right trail for every taste. In addition to classic loop routes and family-friendly trails, tracks such as s’Zuckerl, SchweizUNeben and Volkeracho provide sporty variety. Technique, exciting sections and riding fun with panoramic views are guaranteed.

In addition, the riverside cycle paths along the Mur River and the Mürz River offer relaxed routes for leisure cyclists