Culinary enjoyment in the Thermen- & Vulkanland region

Moments of indulgence in south-eastern Styria

In south-eastern Styria, nature, enjoyment and craftsmanship merge into a genuine way of life. The culinary offerings in the Thermen- und Vulkanland region stand for diversity, quality and authenticity. From aromatic pumpkin seed oil to fruity white wines, from hearty Brettljause platters to fine chocolate: Everywhere you go, you’ll meet people who create, cook and serve special delicacies.

A gourmet holiday combines relaxation and indulgence in the most wonderful way. After a soothing day at the thermal spa, why not round off the evening with a delicious dinner of regional specialities and selected wines?

On this page, you will learn:

which regional delicacies are typical of Styria,
and where you can discover authentic gourmet destinations and producers.

Experience moments of pure culinary pleasure

Discover culinary offerings

Interesting facts and information on Styrian cuisine

Good to know

Below, you’ll find the answers to frequently asked questions about Styria’s culinary specialities.

Typical Styrian delicacies include pumpkin, horseradish, scarlet runner beans, fine wines and, of course, the hearty Brettljause platter. Seasonal highlights such as asparagus, aronia berries, elderberries and wild garlic add extra variety. Chocolate lovers can explore the world of Zotter chocolate creations. In the Thermen- und Vulkanland region of Styria, there are countless opportunities for tastings – at seasonal events as well as at inns, restaurants and wine taverns.

Styrian cuisine is characterised by down-to-earth, simple dishes made from high-quality ingredients. The spectrum ranges from creamy pumpkin soup to crispy fried chicken. Each season brings its own culinary delights to the table.

Fried chicken is one of the absolute classics of Styrian cuisine. Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside and usually served with potato salad and a dash of pumpkin seed oil, it’s a true treat for the palate.

Are you vegetarian or vegan? No problem. Regional restaurants have come up with creative plant-based dishes made with pumpkin, scarlet runner beans and many other local ingredients.

Regional specialities & places to visit

Enjoyment with a personal touch

The region’s culinary ambassadors stand for quality and sustainability. Their range stretches from pumpkin, horseradish and scarlet runner beans to vinegar, ham, cheese and bread, all the way to fine brandies.

You’ll find these delicacies in the culinary hotspots of the Thermen- und Vulkanland region. Everywhere, guests are invited to experience the regional origins of the products up close. In manufactories and farm shops, you can taste, shop and marvel. Zotter chocolate, Gölles vinegar or Vulcano ham: Each stop tells its very own story of quality and passion.
Kilometres of culinary experiences await you along the Vulkanland Route 66. No fewer than 53 producers and 22 shops line this route.

Gastronomy reflecting Styrian diversity

Pure enjoyment

The gastronomic offerings in the Thermen- & Vulkanland region are as varied as the landscape itself. Authentic Styrian cuisine awaits you in rustic inns, modern restaurants and toque-awarded establishments.

Wine taverns in the Thermen- & Vulkanland region

Where regionality is at home

A visit to a wine tavern is simply a must on a gourmet holiday in the Thermen- & Vulkanland region. Surrounded by vineyards, orchards and rolling hills, you can enjoy cold platters full of delicacies.

These usually include smoked meats, roast pork, smoked sausages, cheese, spreads and ham. And they come accompanied by fresh farmhouse bread and scarlet runner bean salad with Styrian pumpkin seed oil. The perfect accompaniment is a refreshing glass of wine or homemade grape juice.

Discover the wine taverns

Wineries & wine shops in the Thermen- & Vulkanland region

Fine wines from the region

Fruity white wines and full-bodied red wines thrive on the volcanic soils around Klöch, St. Anna am Aigen, Straden, and Tieschen. Local wineries open their doors for tastings, wine hikes and guided tours. And all around the vineyards, themed trails such as the Traminerweg in Klöch invite you to take relaxed strolls with plenty of scenic stops.

To round off your Styrian gourmet holiday, all that’s missing is a glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Welschriesling at sunset.

More about Styrian wine

Moments of enjoyment & culinary experiences

Leisure activities for gourmets

The Thermen- und Vulkanland region thrives on its culinary abundance – and celebrates it all year round with food festivals and gourmet events. Along the Vulkanland Route 66, special tasting tours take you to numerous producers, farm shops and manufactories.

For a relaxing break in between, simply combine your gourmet tour with a visit to one of the thermal spas. Six spas, as diverse as the culinary offerings, invite you to unwind. This unique combination is something you’ll only find in the Thermen- und Vulkanland region – simply too beautiful not to be there!