Damon Mcknight
Murau, Austria, is a historic town nestled in the Alps, surrounded by the Dachstein mountains and the river Mur. With its picturesque landscapes, medieval architecture, and nearby ski resorts, Murau offers a range of attractions for history buffs, nature enthusiasts, and outdoor adventurers. From strolling through the old town centre to exploring castles and museums, there is something for everyone in this charming Austrian destination.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Population | 3,400-4,500 |
| Location | On the banks of the River Mur in Murtal, northwestern Styria |
| Attractions | Old historic centre, cafes, eateries, shops, river promenade, narrow-gauge railway, ski resorts, Holzmuseum (Wood Museum), Evangelisches Diözesanmuseum (Evangelical Diocesan Museum), Mariensäule monument, Obermurau Castle, St. Matthew's Church, Leonhardikirche, Heiligengrabkapelle, Medieval city walls, former gallows |
| Transport | Murau-Stolzalpe Station, St. Lorenzen ob Murau Station, Stadl an der Mur Station, Mariahof-St. Lambrecht Station, Unzmarkt Station |
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What You'll Learn
- Visit the historic town of Murau and its old centre, with cafes and shops
- Explore the picturesque scenery and walk along the river promenade
- Take a steam train to Tamsweg, with views of the mountains and forests
- Visit the Holzmuseum (Wood Museum) and the Evangelisches Diözesanmuseum
- Tour Obermurau Castle, with its impressive history and views of the town
Visit the historic town of Murau and its old centre, with cafes and shops
The small historic town of Murau, located on the banks of the river Mur, is a beautiful destination in Murtal, Styria. With around 3,400 inhabitants, it is a great place to explore, with its old historic centre, cafes, shops, and picturesque landscapes.
Start your journey by visiting Schillerplatz, the central square with the Mariensäule monument. Explore the historic centre, consisting of houses around the square, and walk along Lichtensteinstrasse, which eventually becomes Anna-Neumann-Strasse, leading to the old brewery.
Take a stroll along the river promenade, which begins at Tierrangerstrasse and ends at the old brewery. Cross the stone bridge, Bahnhofbrücke, for a small sightseeing tour of the old town and the city's south side. Admire the predecessor bridge, Mursteg, and continue along the river to the glass building of Bezirkshauptmannschaft Murau.
For a glimpse of the town's history, visit Obermurau Castle, located atop a hill above the old town. The original castle, built in 1232, was destroyed in the 1270s, and the current Renaissance castle dates from 1628-1643. Tours are available during the summer months, offering an insight into the castle's history and the princely family that resides there.
Finally, relax and enjoy the local cuisine and drinks at the cafes and eateries in the main square, including the OPEN SPACE, a unique establishment with retractable glazing, offering stunning views and creative cocktails incorporating local beers and lemonades.
With its beautiful scenery, historic sites, and charming cafes, a visit to the old centre of Murau is sure to be an enjoyable and memorable experience.
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Explore the picturesque scenery and walk along the river promenade
The small historic town of Murau, Austria, is nestled in the breathtaking Alps, on the banks of the river Mur. The town is surrounded by majestic mountains, forests, and meadows, offering a picturesque setting for visitors seeking natural beauty and outdoor exploration. One of the must-do activities in Murau is to walk along the river promenade and immerse yourself in the area's natural charm.
The river promenade stretches along the river Mur, providing a tranquil and scenic pathway for visitors to enjoy. It begins at the large car park on Tierrangerstrasse and meanders along the river until it reaches the old brewery, where you'll find an alley leading to Anna-Neumann-Strasse. This route not only offers a peaceful walk but also provides stunning views of the river and the surrounding landscape.
As you stroll along the promenade, you'll encounter the picturesque bridge, constructed in 1897, adding a touch of historical charm to your walk. Cross the river on this bridge, and you'll find yourself at the glass building of the Bezirkshauptmannschaft Murau. From there, continue your journey towards Murfeld and eventually make your way to the bridge on Grazer Strasse. Here, you'll descend to the river promenade and follow the river as it winds its way through the valley.
The river promenade is an excellent choice for those seeking a leisurely walk and a chance to take in the natural beauty of the area. Along the way, you'll be treated to views of the impressive Schloss Murau, a castle perched atop a hill above the old town. The castle, with its rich history and architectural grandeur, serves as a magnificent backdrop to your riverside stroll.
For those feeling adventurous, Murau offers a range of hiking opportunities. One recommended hike is the walk to Frauenalpe, which starts from Murauerhutte. While it is an intensive walk to the top, the panoramic views from above are well worth the effort. From this vantage point, you can take in the breathtaking scenery of the surrounding mountains and valleys, creating lasting memories of your time in Murau.
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Take a steam train to Tamsweg, with views of the mountains and forests
The small historic town of Murau, Austria, is a beautiful destination surrounded by majestic mountains and alpine landscapes. One of the best things to do when in Murau is to take a steam train to Tamsweg. This nostalgic trip will take you through the breathtaking scenery of the Upper Mur Valley, along the green Mur River, and into the heart of the Austrian wilderness.
The steam train runs on narrow-gauge lines and covers a distance of 38 kilometres (23 miles) up the valley from Murau to Tamsweg. The journey offers a unique perspective on the region's natural beauty, with views of picturesque mountain ranges, lush forests, and open meadows. The train ride is an experience in itself, with historic carriages adding to the charm.
The trip to Tamsweg is not just about the destination but also about the journey and the views along the way. As the train winds its way along the river, you will be treated to a panoramic spectacle of nature at its finest. The contrast between the wilderness and the cultural landscape is truly remarkable.
In Tamsweg, you have the option to continue your exploration by transferring to the museum trains of the Taurachbahn. These trains will take you to the terminus of the line in Mauterndorf, offering yet another opportunity to immerse yourself in the region's beauty and history. The steam train ride from Murau to Tamsweg is an excellent choice for those seeking a blend of natural wonders and cultural insights.
To make the most of this experience, it is recommended to book your tickets in advance, as the train can get quite full. With its stunning visuals and old-world charm, the steam train journey to Tamsweg is a perfect way to explore the Murau region and create unforgettable memories.
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Visit the Holzmuseum (Wood Museum) and the Evangelisches Diözesanmuseum
The Holzmuseum (Wood Museum) in St. Ruprecht ob Murau is a great place to visit for those interested in learning about wood and its historical and modern significance. The museum is housed in a unique building, with a distinctive diamond-shaped roof, symbolising the coexistence of tradition and modernity. Inside, you'll find exhibits showcasing the many uses of wood, from the past to the present, including traditional household items, woodworking tools, and the craft of various trades such as carpenters, coopers, and saddlers. The museum also offers hands-on activities for visitors, with opportunities to saw, nail, paint, and more during the summer play and craft days. It serves as a visitor and information centre, providing a great starting point for tours of the Murau district.
The Evangelisches Diözesanmuseum (Evangelical Diocesan Museum) in Murau is a museum dedicated to the history of Protestantism in the region. The museum's exhibits follow a unique path, leading visitors from the present to the past and back again, mirroring the shape of a fish, an ancient Christian symbol. The museum's curatorial approach aims to make "evangelical identity and the life of the church" tangible and understandable, with a focus on key moments in history such as the Reformation and Counter-Reformation. The museum reopened in 2013 after a period of renovation and redesign, with an expanded audio-visual component to enhance the visitor experience.
Both museums offer a glimpse into different aspects of Murau's cultural and historical heritage. The Holzmuseum provides an interactive and educational experience, particularly well-suited for families, while the Evangelisches Diözesanmuseum invites visitors to explore the region's religious past and present, offering a place of remembrance and reflection.
When planning a trip to Murau, Austria, these two museums, the Holzmuseum and the Evangelisches Diözesanmuseum, are definitely worth considering as part of your itinerary. They provide a blend of cultural, historical, and artistic insights that will enrich your understanding of the region.
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Tour Obermurau Castle, with its impressive history and views of the town
The small historic town of Murau in Austria is a beautiful destination, situated in Murtal in northwestern Styria. The town is surrounded by the majestic Dachstein mountains and is a great place for hiking and skiing.
One of the most impressive attractions in Murau is the Obermurau Castle, which sits atop a hill above the old town. The castle has a long history, dating back to the 13th century when the first castle was built on the site in 1232. This original structure was destroyed in a war in the 1270s, and the Renaissance castle that stands today was built between 1628 and 1643. The castle is privately owned and inhabited by the Schwarzenberg princely family, who open their home to the public for tours during the summer months.
On a tour of Obermurau Castle, visitors can explore the picture gallery, kitchen, knight's hall, cat hall, dungeon, and chapel. These rooms provide a fascinating insight into the history of the castle, the family who lives there, and their reign. The castle is open to the public for tours starting at 14:00 every Wednesday and Friday from 1 June to 30 September.
In addition to the castle, Murau has a lot more to offer. The historic centre of the town, with its colourful buildings, is a delight to explore, and the view of the old town from the other side of the River Mur is particularly impressive. Schillerplatz, with the Mariensäule monument, is the central square and a great starting point for a tour of the town. From here, you can walk along Lichtensteinstrasse to Anna-Neumann-Strasse, which ends at the old brewery. The river promenade, which stretches from Tierrangerstrasse to the old brewery, is also a must-do, as is a walk across the stone bridge, Bahnhofbrücke, which connects the old town with the city's south side.
For those looking for a more adventurous activity, there is a narrow-gauge railway between Murau and Tamsweg, which offers a wonderful trip through Murtal by steam train. This 38km journey winds through the Upper Mur Valley, offering picturesque views of the mountains, forests, and meadows.
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