Damon Mcknight
Styria, also known as the Green Heart of Austria, is a region in the southern part of the country, famous for its castles, spas, and wines. The capital city of Styria, Graz, is a vibrant cultural and economic hub, with a rich history and impressive architectural styles. The city's historic centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it offers a range of culinary delights, blending traditional Styrian cuisine with contemporary twists. Beyond Graz, Styria boasts diverse landscapes, from mountains and forests to lakes and vineyards, with plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and skiing. Here is a guide to some of the best places to visit in this charming region.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Capital City | Graz |
| Geography | Mountains, forests, lakes, rivers, vineyards, rolling hills, volcanic soil |
| Architecture | Renaissance, Gothic, Baroque, modern designs |
| Historical Sites | Roman ruins, medieval castles, old fortress walls, UNESCO World Heritage Sites |
| Cultural Attractions | Opera House, Clock Tower, Rathaus, Kunsthaus Graz (modern art museum), Aufsteirern festival |
| Activities | Hiking, skiing, cycling, climbing, cable car rides |
| Food & Beverage | Pork pot roast, forest mushrooms, fresh herbs, Sauvignon Blanc wine |
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What You'll Learn
Graz, the capital of Styria
Graz's old town is among Europe's most beautiful and has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city has numerous architecturally interesting modern buildings and was recognised as a "City of Design" in 2012. Many new buildings were constructed in 2003 when Graz was “Europe’s Cultural Capital”. The old town's atmosphere is best enjoyed in an outdoor dining area, and there are many museums and exhibitions to explore, including the Landeszeughaus, which is the world's largest historic armoury.
Graz is home to the elegant and refined Schloss Eggenberg, a palace with gorgeous gardens and elaborate, finely decorated staterooms. The Alte Galerie also boasts brilliant paintings and sculptures. The palace is located on the outskirts of the city and was built in 1460, with Baroque features added in 1625.
Graz is also a great base for exploring the surrounding area. The city of Steyr in Upper Austria is considered the namesake and origin of Styria. It is home to Lamberg Castle, a former fortress called Styraburg. The region in western Styria, west of Graz, is called "Styrian Tuscany" due to its similar landscape of hills, valleys, vineyards, and culture. The Southern Styria Nature Park offers wonderful hiking trails and paths through pristine nature.
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The Dachstein mountain range
The Dachstein massif encompasses several impressive peaks, including the tallest in Styria, Hoher Dachstein, which rises to a height of 2,995 meters. For those seeking a challenge, the four-hour climb to the summit of Hoher Dachstein offers a rewarding adventure with steep trails, exposed ridges, and fixed rope routes. The Adamek Hut, a famed mountain refuge, provides a welcoming base for various activities, from hiking and skiing to exploring the nearby Mammut Cave, one of the largest karst caves in the world.
The Dachstein Glacier, nestled within the massif, is a stunning natural attraction. Here, you can find the Dachstein Ice Palace (Eispalast), a unique ice cave that offers a glimpse into the world of glaciers. The Dachstein Skywalk, a spectacular viewing platform, provides breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding alpine landscape. The glacier is also a popular destination for ski touring, cross-country skiing, and mountaineering.
Dachstein's 'Stairway to Nothingness' is not for the faint of heart, protruding over a heart-stopping drop to the mountainside below. The suspension bridge between two mountain peaks offers another thrilling experience. The scenic cable car ride to the top of the mountain is an unforgettable way to take in the majestic beauty of the range. With its diverse attractions and natural splendour, the Dachstein mountain range is a highlight of any visit to Styria.
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The Vulkania healing spring
In addition to the Vulkania healing spring, there are several other notable places to visit in Styria. The capital city, Graz, offers historical and cultural landmarks, brilliant bars and restaurants, and a thriving arts and culture scene. The Skywalk Dachstein, with its "stairway to nothingness", provides exhilarating views of the surrounding mountains. Riegersburg Castle, perched atop a dormant volcano, offers exhibits and artefacts that showcase its long and illustrious history.
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Riegersburg Castle
The castle is impressively well-preserved and boasts stunning views of the surrounding vineyards and mountains. Visitors can opt for a funicular ride or take a 20-minute walk up a wide path to reach the castle. Inside, 25 out of 108 rooms are open to the public, showcasing the castle's history, art, and architecture. The Gothic chapel, Renaissance Knights Hall, and Baroque White Hall are particularly noteworthy. The castle also houses a Witches Museum and a Weapons Museum. The Witches Museum delves into the stories of witches and sorcerers associated with the castle, including a former Baroness' handmaiden who was executed for her alleged involvement in the dark arts. The Weapons Museum displays an extensive collection of arms from the Middle Ages to the 17th century, with some interactive exhibits.
In addition to the castle, the village of Riegersburg, nestled below, offers a charming small-town atmosphere with eateries and accommodations. Nearby, there is a waterpark, Seebad Riegersburg, providing a relaxing and refreshing experience during the summer months. The winter season in the region usually begins in December and lasts until April, with skiing and other snow activities available in the surrounding mountains.
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The South Styrian Wine Street
The South Styrian Wine Road, also known as Südsteirische weinstrasse, is a stunningly scenic route in the southern region of Austria. This 44-mile-long road connects small Austrian villages and towns, offering travellers the chance to experience amazing Austrian wines and local food specialties.
Starting near the village of Ehrenhausen, the road winds through Berghausen and quaint Austrian towns, leading you to the heart of the south Styrian wine country. Along the way, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of woodlands, lush rolling hills, and verdant vineyards. The region is known for its charming villages, family-owned hotels and inns, and traditional Austrian wine taverns called "buschenschanks".
At the beginning of the South Styrian Wine Road, you can find a facility that boasts 2,500 Styrian wine and culinary products from over 250 regional producers, including the Vinofaktur, the largest wine store in Styria. Here, you can take a short tour to learn about the history of wine production, organic practices, and the influence of different soil types in the region.
As you continue your journey, you'll have the opportunity to visit local wineries, such as the Wolfgang Maitz vineyard, and partake in wine tastings. The Sauvignon Blancs and Morillon (a local Chardonnay) are particularly noteworthy. The region is also famous for its pumpkin seed oil, which is used profusely in various dishes.
Whether you choose to explore by car, e-bike, or even the local taxi service, WeinMobil, the South Styrian Wine Road promises a delightful journey through the gorgeous landscapes, delectable wines, and authentic flavours of South Styria.
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Frequently asked questions
Styria, also known as the Green Heart of Austria, is famous for its castles, spas, and wines. Here are some of the best places to visit:
- Graz, the capital city of Styria, is a vibrant cultural and economic hub with a rich history. The historic city centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Schloss Eggenberg, a palace with beautiful Baroque features and gorgeous gardens.
- Dachstein, a mountain range with the tallest peak in the state at 2,995 meters. It offers year-round skiing and hiking opportunities, as well as the Skywalk with breathtaking views.
Styria offers a diverse range of outdoor activities due to its varied landscapes. Here are some options:
- Hiking in the wine regions and enjoying the rolling hills and vineyards.
- Visiting the seven nature parks that provide a habitat for rare plants and animals.
- Visiting the Green Lake (Grüner See), a popular destination surrounded by the Hochschwab Mountains and forests.
- Taking a scenic cable car ride up to Dachstein and walking along the suspension bridge.
Styria has a rich history with many well-preserved castles and historic towns. Here are some notable sites:
- Riegersburg Castle, a centuries-old castle with exhibits and artifacts that showcase its history.
- Burg Deutschlandsberg, a castle with a scary appearance on cloudy days.
- The old town of Graz, where many buildings date back to the Middle Ages.
- The town of Judenburg, with a landmark tower that offers views of the Mur Valley and houses Europe's most modern planetarium.
