Zirknitz-Gundersdorf circular trail Nr. S1, S3, S1, S2A, S2

You start off with great anticipation of a unique day of hiking through the Schilcherheimat via the road in the direction of the primary schools. Along the path with the number S1 and 6 you hike through the shady forest to Puxhof. Here in the forest you can cool off well on hot days and especially in spring, when nature turns green, there is a magical atmosphere in the forest that you should let have a special effect on you.

Continue across beautiful meadows in bloom and blowing in the wind until you reach the intersection with the S3 hiking trail from Pirkhof. Once there, turn left onto the trail numbered S3 and follow the road for a short distance.

Here you have the chance to visit the lovingly designed farm museum of the friendly Strohmeier family. A short climb awaits you, but it is well worth it. The house people will be happy to explain everything they know about the strenuous work of the farmers and how it has changed due to progress.

Afterwards, with lots of new knowledge in your head, head down the road until you turn into the footpath through the meadow numbered S3. Through a beautiful forest path where many adventures await the children. Why not take the time and let the little ones twirl a bit through the leaves.

Through picturesque vineyards, which shine in colourful hues especially in autumn, the route continues easily to Gundersdorf. Here you are spoilt for choice from a culinary point of view. The wine that you have just seen on the vine can also be tasted here in numerous pubs and taverns. The Schilcher, which gives our region its name, tastes particularly good with hearty dishes, which are offered in cold form as a hearty snack in the Buschenschank or warm in the form of a regional game dish in the great inns. Take it easy and let yourself be pampered with a little culinary treat.

Well fortified, hike along the S1 trail to the fire station, where you turn left onto the S2A trail and hike in the direction of Schachen.

Here, beer lovers in particular get their money's worth, as home-brewed Hausmi beer awaits them at the Köberl family's adventure farm. Especially on hot days, welcome refreshment for every beer-drinking hiker.

Then walk along a fence with highland cattle through the idyllic forest path to the junction with path S2. After a short left-right bend, the trail leads along the fallow deer enclosure to the bend, then descends left to the junction of trails S1 and 6 where you continue the hike back to St. Stefan to the starting point.

But before you reach your destination again you should watch both the shaggy highland cattle and the elegant fallow deer grazing for a while. The good-naturedness that emanates from these beautiful animals has an incredibly calming effect. They have a special charisma, especially for children.

Then the circle soon closes and you reach the centre of the beautiful village of St. Stefan again. Why not stay here for a while and have a delicious ice cream at Café Kainz. There is probably enough to talk about after all you have experienced.

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