Nature, culture, and history have all contributed to making Styria one of the most diverse states of Austria. It’s also known as the green heart of Austria.
Austria’s second largest 16,401 km2 (6,332 sq mi) state is incredibly diverse. The Alps dominate the northern and western parts. Styria has 788 mountains higher than 2000 metres. The tallest, Dachstein, is just shy of 3000 m. The southeastern hill country is sunny and hot, with a climate heavily influenced by the Adriatic. The transition zone between the Alps and the flatter south is where you find the state capital, Graz.
Outdoors
For outdoor people, Styria is the ultimate paradise. There is an inexhaustible spectrum of outdoor activities to choose from. No matter if it’s summer or winter, most people will find their favourite pastime. The state is mainly forested and has seven natural parks and one national park. Styria also has a fair share of the Austrian Alps within its borders. Consequently, hiking in the green heart of Austria is quite popular among locals and tourists. Among the highlights is the Dachstein massif, the highest mountain range in Styria, peeking at 2,995 m (9826 ft), and the river Mur, which at 300 km, is Styria’s longest.
Culinary & Wine Destination
Due to its favourable climate, Styria produces a wide range of agricultural produce, including wine. The vineyards in the country’s southeastern part are producing not large quantities but fine wines. It only produces about 10% of Austria’s total wine production. Nonetheless, combined with local food production, Styria can unquestionably promote itself as a culinary destination. Furthermore, Styria is world famous for its pumpkin seed oil (Kürbiskernöl). The EU has protected the pumpkin seed oil’s place of origin since 1996.
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Historical crossroads
The area that is part of Styria today has seen different people settle here throughout history. In the early Middle Ages, the southern and eastern part of Styria was inhabited by Slavs. The Bavarians, a Germanic tribe, gained control over the region in about 8-900 AD. Its borders have shifted, and so have the cultural imprints. The latest grand-scale upheaval was after WWI when Styria lost a big chunk of its southern part to Yugoslavia, which today is part of Slovenia.
Nevertheless, you can still get glimpses of the region’s early history from Celtic remains, Roman ruins and mediaeval castles. Burg Deutschlandsberg, Riegersburg and Burg Strechau are among the most impressive and well-preserved castles. Furthermore, a few historic towns (some walled), such as Frohnleiten, Hartberg and Oberwölz, are also worth visiting.
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Graz – Styria’s capital
The capital of Styria, Graz, is Austria’s second-largest city, with a population of 280.000. In the heart of this city, you also find a remarkably well-preserved old town, where many buildings date back to the Middle Ages. The city’s historic centre is on the UNESCO World Heritage list. Nevertheless, Graz is also a modern, vibrant city with a large student population—six universities and 45.000 students—and a youthful flair to the historical centre point of the state. Graz is also renowned for its innovative culinary scene, with a variety of restaurants that blend traditional Styrian cuisine with contemporary twists. Additionally, the city hosts numerous cultural events, such as the Styriarte Music Festival and the Diagonale Film Festival, further enriching its dynamic cultural landscape.
Highlights of Styria
– Local Festivals and Events: Experience the vibrant Steirischer Herbst (Styrian Autumn) contemporary arts festival or immerse yourself in tradition at the Aufsteirern Festival, celebrating Styrian culture with music, dance, and cuisine.
– Outdoor Activities and Adventures: Discover thrilling outdoor activities, perfect for adventure enthusiasts, like hiking in the Dachstein Mountains, skiing in Schladming, or exploring the pristine Gesäuse National Park.
– Culinary Highlights: Savor traditional Styrian dishes such as Steirisches Wurzelfleisch, Kürbiskernöl (pumpkin seed oil), and Apfelstrudel. Explore local wineries along the South Styrian Wine Road (Südsteirische Weinstraße) and indulge in food tours or cooking classes.
– Historical and Architectural Sites: Visit historical landmarks like the medieval Riegersburg Castle, the stunning Eggenberg Palace, and the ancient town of Bruck an der Mur, which offer a glimpse into Styria’s rich history and architectural heritage.
– Local Legends and Stories: Dive into intriguing local folklore, including tales of the Styrian armourers and the legend of the Graz clock tower, adding a touch of mystique to your journey.
– Accommodation Options: Choose from various accommodations, from luxury hotels like the Grand Hotel Wiesler in Graz to the charming bed-and-breakfast Boutique Hotel Zum Sausaler in the countryside. Unique stays include traditional Styrian farmhouses and eco-friendly lodges.
– Travel Tips and Itineraries: Plan your trip with practical travel tips, including the best times to visit, transportation options, and suggested itineraries tailored for families, adventurers, and more.
– Local Art and Craft: Explore the local art scene through galleries, craft shops, and artist studios. Discover unique Styrian crafts, such as woodcarving and traditional costumes, and find authentic souvenirs.
– Wellness and Relaxation: Unwind at wellness retreats and spas, like the Rogner Bad Blumau, designed by artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser, offering a distinctive and relaxing experience.
– Sustainability Efforts: Learn about Styria’s commitment to sustainability and eco-tourism, featuring eco-friendly practices, organic farms, and green initiatives that appeal to environmentally conscious travellers.
Check out this link for more info: Styria Tourism
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The contrast between the forest groves and the straight-lined vines in the hilly landscape that characterizes the view is fascinating. What’s more, the small villages you pass are nothing more than clusters of houses. However, in these picturesque clusters of homes, you’ll find what makes the region worth a visit: the restaurants and wine shops […]
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Many old buildings are well preserved, creating a great atmosphere. The historic centre of Hartberg lies within the partially preserved city wall from the Middle Ages (12th and 13th centuries), which once surrounded the entire town. Today, visitors and residents enjoy a place where you can relax and enjoy life – in historic surroundings. The […]
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Weinebene is the highest point (1668 m / 5472 ft) in the pass over the Koralpen, where the east-west road between Deutschlandsberg in Styria and Wolfsberg in Carinthia crosses over. Instead of pointed peaks, the ridges along the mountain range are broad and rounded. We have tested a few more accessible hiking opportunities starting from […]
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Hochlantsch at 1720 m / 5643 ft above sea level is the highest peak in the Almenland region. The starting point for my hike is Teichalm, which is located about 30 km / 19 miles northeast of Graz. Together with the nearby Sommeralm, Teichalm is the largest continuous area with alpine pastures in the Alps. […]
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Despite its fiery name, the Styrian Volcano Land (Steirisches Vulkanland) lacks lava-spewing volcanos or blackened, scorched earth. Instead, the region primarily consists of a lush green landscape of rolling hills. The hillcrests are usually covered by forest, and the valleys are dominated by farmland, vineyards and dotted with villages. Slow down and enjoy The region […]
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Our first visit to Burg Deutschlandsberg was on a grey and cloudy day, which gave the Castle a slightly scary appearance. This is probably the meaning of a castle, anyway. However, we later visited the Castle several times on lovely sunny summer days, when it showcased itself from a more welcoming side. Hotel, restaurant, and […]
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Hiking in wine regions has become popular in Austria. Many people enjoy the rolling hills and soft landscape as a contrast to the fantastic opportunities for alpine hiking in the Alps. We, therefore, ventured out on a 5.8 km (3.6 mi) long hike in southern Styria through vineyards, forest groves, and open farm landscapes. Nature […]
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Most people who visit Bad Radkersburg most likely come to enjoy a stay at the spa outside the historic centre. Nevertheless, during several visits we have walked up and down most streets and alleys and become acquainted with idyllic Bad Radkersburg. Within the old fortress walls, which are partly well-visible, you will find a relatively […]
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The Arnold Schwarzenegger Museum is located in the former childhood home of Arnold Schwarzenegger and is the only official museum in the world dedicated to him. The museum was privately funded and opened in 2011 in a building that used to be the local police station and where he grew up. Parts of the building […]
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The historic small town in the Styria region of Austria, with about 4500 inhabitants, is surrounded by the majestic Dachstein mountains. The winter season usually starts at the beginning of December and runs until the beginning of April. Skiing day and night Schladming offers 123 km of slopes spread over four interconnected ski areas: Planai, […]
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If you are on your way through northwestern Styria, you should visit the old historic centre of the small town with just over 3,400 inhabitants. Murau is beautifully situated in a valley that stretches east-west through northern Styria — surrounded by a typical alpine landscape on the south side of the main alpine ridge. The […]
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Although Graz is a relatively big city, most tourist sights and places of interest are located in the old town or within a short distance from the city centre. If you are arriving by car, just put it in a parking garage, as many of them are scattered around the city centre and do your […]
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Once a year in late September, a so-called “pressfest” takes place in the south-eastern Styrian village Klöch. Regional wine farmers showcase their products along with some culinary treats. Everything accompanied by live music and folklore performances. In Klöch they block off the main road and turn 150 meters of the road through the village into […]
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From whatever direction you arrive, the Riegersburg Castle firmly stands out sitting on top of a volcanic peak 480 metres above sea level. Don’t worry the volcano has been extinct for a couple of million years. If you love castles and the Middle Age this one is a must-visit. Location, location, location The knights of […]
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I arrived in Bad Waltersdorf on a sunny, warm day in late June. Even though it was too hot for a hike at 32 °C (90 °F), the local tourist office suggested a route which partly took me through small forests. And I did not regret taking up the tip, as the so-called Roman Vineyard […]
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Not only one but two spectacular viewing platforms that send you over the edge. At 2700 metres (8858 ft) above sea level, the views of the surrounding valleys and mountains from the Dachstein Skywalk are breathtaking. Suspension The suspension bridge that takes you from the cable car station, with only a vertical wall below your […]
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If you are travelling on the A9 motorway from the south toward Voralpenkreuz (A1) near Rottenmann, you cannot miss the castle at the top of the cliff. The red and white painted window shutters, defence walls and towers fit well as a movie backdrop in a Hollywood movie. The castle Major had not seen acts […]
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Green Lake and its setting are stunning — a green emerald surrounded by the Hochschwab Mountains and forests. Consequently, the Green Lake (Grüner See) in Styria has become a very popular destination. During the main central European holiday period, it can be very crowded. Nonetheless, if you visit outside the busiest times in the summer, […]
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In a mountain valley far north in the state of Styria you find the holiday resort Mariazell, that is particularly suitable for families. Whether you want a holiday to relax or participate in a range outdoor activities, you never travel far to have fun. Furthermore, there is also a small lake nearby where you can […]
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We are not in the tropics but in southern Austria, where the river Mur forms part of the border with Slovenia. This landscape, a combination of floodplains and forest, is very unlike what we expect from mostly alpine Austria. Nonetheless, we were pleasantly surprised when we arrived. Austria’s second-largest river landscape The river Mur makes […]
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For once, we visited an Austrian town, not because they have well-known tourist sights or famous architecture, but simply because it’s a lovely town. Frohnleiten has been able to modernize the city and, in particular the main square (Hauptplatz), without destroying its historical charm. The square is the lifeblood of the local community and where […]