Absetzwirt hike around the Rosenkogel Nr. A3

Full of anticipation of what is to come, you walk east past the inn and turn left into the forest on the mountain meadow.

A beautiful forest path, which is pleasant to walk on, leads down to the Klugbauerkreuz, where you reach the access road to the Absetzwirt. This cross was completely rebuilt in 2015 and a bench invites you to linger.

From here you walk along the road for about 500 metres, in a sharp left-hand bend you continue straight ahead on a forest road downhill. After about another kilometre you come to a fork in the trail. At this fork, take the path marked A3. However, it is highly recommended to make a detour to the wonderfully designed Meran Chapel, which is also the tip of the hike. The chapel is located above the Schneiderbauer and you only have to take a diversion of ten minutes, which really pays off. Here you can also enjoy the snack you brought with you, with delicacies from Western Styria.

After the restful break, you will pass a small pond with its own island and a small cross at the side of the path, where the connecting path from Schneiderbauer leads up from the left.

Take a few deep breaths and enjoy the clear air. Now you need this new energy. Now you need this new energy, because you continue to hike steadily uphill on the forest road. Listen to the chirping of the birds and watch the falling leaves dance through the air. Shortly before the Mendl farm, which you will see on the left, the long-distance hiking trails 555/569 cross the hiking trail. Here you could take a steep path directly to the Rosenkogel.

The Rosenkogel is 1362 metres high and is symbolically represented in the coat of arms of the former municipality of Marhof by two silver roses.

But you go on and see the Höllbauer-Marterl on the left. Soon the conspicuously well-kept Höllbauer farm appears on the right, slightly above. Here you have a particularly beautiful view of the Koralpe.

Continue through a romantic coniferous forest. Soon you will notice the many large anthills. Take your time and watch the industrious little animals at work. It is important not to touch the piles. These animals are absolutely worth protecting, as they perform important services for the natural cycle.

A somewhat greater effort awaits you now, too. For the path climbs more steeply on the last stage. When you see the Schilling cross on the right, you know that you will soon reach your destination, the Absetzwirt. This is where the circle closes. A wonderful hike through the forests around the Rosenkogel comes to an end. If you haven't climbed it this time, you should definitely come back to make up for it. Because a magnificent view awaits you at the top.

Many starting points for our hikes in southern Styria can also be reached by public transport.

For a relaxed and sustainable journey, we recommend travelling by bus and train wherever possible. Depending on the region, additional local transport options are available.

This allows you to start your tour stress-free while also contributing to climate and nature conservation.

All information on public transport, local mobility services and timetables can be found at: www.suedsteiermark.com/arrival

Nearest train stations are: Lannach, Frauental or Deutschlandsberg.

Information offices:

Stainz Tourist Office, Tel.: +43 (5) 7730 710, 8510 Stainz, Hauptplatz 1

South Styria Tourist Association, Tel.: +43 (5) 7730, 8530 Deutschlandsberg, Hauptplatz 40

www.suedsteiermark.com